Light on the dark side

VW AMAROK DARK LABEL

- Andrew Middleton

With a brand new Amarok co-developed with Ford on the horizon for 2022, or thereabouts, VW is rolling out a few special editions based on the existing technology. It’s a sure way to ensure consumer appeal against some of the contemporary rivals who are now into the next phase of their development cycle.

That said, getting acquainted with the Amarok Dark Label Special Edition underlined that the Amarok is still a top-notch product with arguably the best build quality and most impressive attention to detail of any bakkie in the sector. The tried and tested 132kW BiTDI engine works best with the slick-shifting 8-speed automatic, returning almost unbelievable fuel consumption of 7.4l/100km on our 100km test route, which included a mild off-road foray at Grabouw 4x4. This was a largely ‘unloaded’ result, combined with frugal driving, and would likely climb closer to the theoretical 9.0 l/100km heavily loaded and in town traffic.

The latest Dark Label (not Black Label) includes a number of external features which set it apart from the standard Highline. These include a locally-made MAXE sports bar, along with matte-finish headlight shrouds, exterior mirrors and door handles. The grille features a dark lacquered chrome. Rear windows are tinted for better privacy and the stealth look continues with those blacked-out B-pillars. ‘Dark Label’ lettering features prominently on the sills above 18-inch alloy wheels. Though not part of the Dark Label package, the Amarok in this spec does come with a permanent grippy bed liner, which is rare in the segment.