The market in Kenya for premium pickup trucks has been stirred by the arrival of the latest Volkswagen Amarok models, which are available with either automatic or manual transmission. This large and luxurious pick up has a two litre turbo diesel engine developing 180 horsepower linked with an eight speed automatic transmission.
The Amarok has heavy-duty suspension with robust under body protection for the front end and the 80litre fuel tank. The cabin is protected against dust by the climatic air conditioning system. Built to cope easily with unsurfaced tracks, off road conditions, mud and steep climbs and descents the driver has the use of 4-motion transmission with a rear differential lock.
Among the safety features are ABS (Anti-locking Brake System) EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and EDL (Electronic Differential Lock). The driver and front passenger are protected by four air bags covering the front and the sides.
There are three point automatic seat belts for the driver and the front seat passenger. In the back of the double cab there is accommodation for three passengers. The occupant of the middle seat has a lap belt and the other two are protected by three point automatic seat belts.
Time spent in an Amarok is made enjoyable by a touch screen radio with six speakers, SD card slot and USB connection. The driver has the benefit of Bluetooth and a multifunction display showing journey time, average speed, fuel consumption and the chosen route.
The impressive list of equipment includes all the side windows and the heated exterior mirrors operated at the touch of switches. The front bucket seats are fully adjustable and underneath them there is storage space in drawers. Day time running lights (LED) give a clear message to the drivers of coming vehicles and parking is made easy by front and rear sensors which have acoustic warning signals.