New light commercial vehicles ( LCV s) come to market and include the Volkswagen Amarok, KIA’s K2700 and the New Ford Ranger.

Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab now available in 4×2 in the LCV range

The Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab has revolutionised the local one-ton bakkie market since its introduction in

September 2010. One of the innovative technologies that this VW introduced into the local bakkie segment was the 8-speed automatic transmission in January 2013.

Until now, this popular derivative was only available with a permanent 4×4. Customers can now order the Amarok Double Cab Automatic with rear-wheel drive. The 4×2 derivative has an average fuel consumption of 8,2 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 216g/km.

The additional gears make it possible to achieve a wider gear ratio spread between 1st and 8th compared to a conventional auto transmission. As a result, the 132kW, 2-litre BiTDI engine works more frequently in its optimal torque band.

The 8th gear has been configured as a fuel saving overdrive gear. The 2-litre BiTDI has a maximum torque of 420N.m available at 1 750rpm. The top speed of 180km/h is reached in 7th gear. Zero to 100km/h takes only 10,6 seconds. Standard Features The Amarok Double Cab Automatic is offered with the top-of-the-range specification level, Highline.

Its standard safety and convenient features include ESP with brake assist and Hill Start/Hill Descent assist, ABS including off-road ABS, driver and front passenger airbag, daytime running lights, park distance control (rear), 17-inch alloy wheels, radio/CD (MP3 capable) with six speakers, Climatronic two-zone air-conditioning, electrically foldable side mirrors, storage drawers under front seats, cruise control and 12-volt sockets in the centre console, dashboard and load box.

Service and Warranty The Amarok auto Double Cab comes standard with a threeyear/100 000km manufacturer warranty, five-year/90 000km Automotion service plan and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Price: R467 700 (VAT included).

KIA K2700 Sebenza

Thanks to its large load deck and 1,3 ton payload, the K2700 remains a popular transport solution among small and medium enterprises using LCV ‘s. Apart from its inherent versatility, it also features many unique features, like a front opening panel that allows you to easily check fluid levels and refill when necessary, seats optimised for comfort, an 11-litre glovebox, as well as a multi-functional console built into the centre seatback.

Additions to the K2700 Sebenza are both aesthetic and practical, and include, for example, the fitment of a bull bar at the front to deal with life’s little knocks more easily. The addition of a tow bar with integrated step not only allows you to increase payload through the use of a trailer, but also eases access to the load bay.

To ease the monotony of a day on the road, the K2700 Sebenza features a radio as standard, along with a branded service book wallet and carpets. ‘Sebenza’ decals adorn the side of the vehicle.

The K2700 Sebenza is powered by KIA’s well-known 4-cylinder, 2 665cm3 naturally aspirated diesel engine, offering 62kW of power at 4 000rpm and 165N.m of torque at 2 400rpm, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Price: R211 995 (VAT included), with standard three-year/ 60 000km service plan.

Sneak peek of the new Ford Ranger Coming in 2015

Drive Smarter. Challenge Conventions. Achieve More. The all-new Ford Ranger made its debut at the Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand last year. It was also the global reveal of the complete line-up of body styles available on the all-new Ford Ranger.

Extensively tested on five continents, the all-new Ford Ranger will eventually be sold in 180 markets. Find out more at www.facebook.com/FordRanger.