By Sala Masindane

The Volkswagen Amarok has always been one of the more refined bakkies in the segment, but this new 2.3 TSI PanAmericana takes things in a different direction. Instead of relying on diesel power, Volkswagen has fitted it with a turbocharged petrol engine that completely changes the character of the Amarok.

At first glance, not much has changed. It still has the same bold stance and imposing road presence we’ve come to expect, and our test vehicle’s deep red paintwork only added to its appeal. It’s a colour that suits the Amarok well and attracted plenty of attention wherever we stopped.

Step inside and you’ll find a cabin that’s familiar if you’ve spent time in the current Amarok. There’s a digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and comfortable seats that make long journeys effortless. While the interior is well put together, it doesn’t quite have the unmistakable Volkswagen feel found in some of the brand’s passenger cars.

It’s once you press the start button that this Amarok begins to set itself apart.

Under the bonnet sits a 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 222kW and 452Nm. Those figures are impressive on paper, but it’s the way the Amarok delivers its performance that really stands out.

Put your foot down and it responds with an urgency you don’t normally associate with a double cab bakkie. Overtaking slower traffic requires little effort, and joining the motorway feels effortless. At times, it almost feels like you’re driving a GTI that’s grown up and decided it needed a load bin.

Despite its performance credentials, the Amarok hasn’t sacrificed comfort. Ride quality remains one of its strongest attributes, soaking up road imperfections with ease while maintaining excellent composure. Whether you’re driving around town or covering long distances on the open road, it feels more like an SUV than a traditional bakkie.

That combination of performance and refinement is what makes this Amarok so enjoyable to drive. It’s quick when you want it to be, comfortable when it needs to be, and still offers the practicality buyers expect from a premium double cab.

The Volkswagen Amarok 2.3 TSI PanAmericana 4Motion is priced from R1,099,000, placing it firmly in premium territory. It won’t be the obvious choice for everyone, particularly buyers who prefer the torque and efficiency of a diesel, but if you’re after a bakkie that offers genuine performance without compromising on comfort, this petrol-powered Amarok is well worth considering.