New VW Amarok Dark Label 'under consideration' for SA

The new Volkswagen Amarok Dark Label is officially “under consideration” for South Africa. Here’s what we know about this blacked-out bakkie so far…

New Amarok Dark Label looking likely for SA
VW filed local trademark application in 2024
German-spec version features V6 TDI engine

Back in November 2024, after unearthing a trademark filing, Cars.co.za speculated that Volkswagen might revive the “Dark Label” badge in South Africa, with history suggesting the Amarok would be the most obvious recipient. Turns out we were on exactly the right track.

Yes, the Wolfsburg-based automaker recently unveiled the new Amarok Dark Label for the German market. And Volkswagen Group Africa has now confirmed to us that this blacked-out derivative – which is, of course, built locally at Ford’s Silverton plant alongside the closely related Ranger – is “under consideration” for South Africa, though adds that “nothing has been confirmed yet”.

As a reminder, the original Amarok Dark Label was a special-edition double cab based on the first-generation bakkie and debuted in South Africa late in 2018 (though was offered in various other markets earlier, including in pre-facelift guise). While that version used a 4-cylinder engine in Mzansi, the new iteration seemingly upgrades to the 2nd-gen Amarok’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 motor.

In Germany, this 6-cylinder engine makes 177 kW (detuned from 184 kW thanks to the Old Continent’s emissions regulations) and 600 Nm, peak outputs that are delivered via a 10-speed automatic transmission. In that market, the Dark Label is based on the Style double-cab variant and can be ordered in Midnight Black metallic, Dark Grey metallic or Bright Blue metallic.

The newcomer features derivative-specific decals running along its flanks as well as matte-black 20-inch alloy wheels. The front-bumper trim, grille and underbody protection are also finished in black, while the rear side windows gain a dark tint. Matte-black B-pillars and roof rails are likewise part of the package, which furthermore includes black side-mirror caps, black side steps and black exterior door handles.

Round back, you’ll find a black bumper, darkened taillamps, a matte-black styling bar, a dark-tinted rear window and a black tailgate handle. Inside, the new Amarok Dark Label’s seats are trimmed in a dark “ArtVelours” material, while you’ll also find black interior door trim as well as an Ebony Black headliner. The leather-trimmed steering wheel gains a “Dark Label” badge, while the velour floor mats score “Dark Label” lettering at the front.

To refresh your memory, Cars.co.za discovered that VW’s head office in Wolfsburg filed to trademark the “Dark Label” badge in South Africa in June 2024, with the application still listed as “pending” (though likely to be approved soon). Interestingly, Volkswagen also filed to trademark the “Black Label” nameplate in Mzansi, making this application a month earlier (in May 2024).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the new Volkswagen Amarok Dark Label confirmed for release in South Africa?

A: The new Volkswagen Amarok Dark Label is currently “under consideration” for the South African market. Volkswagen Group Africa confirmed that nothing has been officially finalised yet.

Q: What engine does the German-spec Amarok Dark Label feature?

A: The German-spec version of the new Amarok Dark Label features the 2nd-generation Amarok’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 motor. This engine produces 177 kW and 600 Nm, delivered via a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Q: What are some of the key blacked-out styling elements on the new Amarok Dark Label?

A: Key features include matte-black 20-inch alloy wheels, a black finish on the front-bumper trim and grille, darkened taillamps, a matte-black styling bar and a black tailgate handle. The interior also features seats trimmed in dark “ArtVelours” material and an Ebony Black headliner.

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