This is the Volkswagen Amarok; but not as we know it. This very latest second-generation model is bigger and more powerful than before and of course it is more sophisticated. With over twenty new driver assist systems, mobile online services, engines that are both efficient and high-torque, two all-wheel drive technologies and tailor-made optional accessories, this could well be one of the most versatile and well-balanced pick-up trucks in the world.
On The Outside
The new VW Amarok is immediately available in double cab and single cab versions; the former likely to be the most popular for its all-round ability and the latter bringing a larger load bed. The German brand are launching with a variety of specification variants: ‘Amarok’, ‘Life’ and ‘Style’, as well as the top versions ‘PanAmericana’ (featuring off-road styling) and ‘Aventura’ (exclusive styling for that prestige feel).
The front end has an upright stance with bars running horizontally across the radiator grille merging with the concisely integrated LED headlights, which come as standard on all versions. The extended wheel-arches house 21” alloys. The wheelbase has grown and this shortens the body overhangs, resulting in sharper proportions and improved off-road capability thanks to better approach angles. We forget this remains a working vehicle and approach and departure angles still matter to the off-road fraternity. At the rear, there’s no mistaking the model, with AMAROK writ large across the tailgate.
The off-road capabilities of the Amarok, which will have ‘4Motion’ all-wheel drive as standard in many markets, are also enhanced by much greater fording depth for driving through watery terrain; up to 800mm in fact.
On The Inside
With, as ever, a fully ‘Digital Cockpit’, (and featuring a twelve inch dashboard array on the ‘Style’ variant and above) and a highly modern touchscreen in tablet format (10 inch in size on the ‘Style’, 12 inch as standard otherwise) for the infotainment system. The company have integrated a mix of digital functions and (joy of joys) some real ergonomically configured buttons (remember them?) and/or push/rotary switches. The infotainment system’s volume and all-wheel drive system’s settings are, for example, controlled via such hard keys.
The sound system from Harman Kardon, as standard in the Amarok PanAmericana and Ventura, and available as an option for other specification lines is predictable excellent. PanAmericana and Aventura models get a leather-look instrument panel with elegant contrast stitching. The vehicle’s premium positioning is also matched by the new seating: the Amarok’s driver and front-seat passenger sit on ergonomically designed seats, which in the higher specifications can be electrically adjusted into multiple positions. The rear of the Double-cab also offers plenty of space and comfort for three adult passengers to enjoy the journey. The seats of the Style version have ‘ArtVelours’ covers as standard, while in the Amarok ‘PanAmericana’ and ‘Aventura’ Volkswagen uses high-quality leather.
It is also strikingly spacious behind the double or single cab, in what is known as the cargo or load box. As was the case on the previous model, the cargo bed between the wheel arches has enough room for a Euro pallet to be loaded in sideways. The single cab version can even take two. There are eye rings on the cargo bed, which can each take a load of up to 500kgs. In line with this high load capability, the maximum payload has gone up to 1.16 tonnes. The cargo box can also be secured using an electrically operated roll cover as a worthwhile option. This roll cover can be opened and closed from the cargo box itself, from inside the vehicle or by remote control via the vehicle key.
The Power And Drive
Four turbo-diesel engines and one turbo-charged petrol engine have been developed for this new pickup. Qualities common to all five engines are efficiency and high levels of torque, say the company. From a four-cylinder, 2.0 litre diesel delivering 148bhp (150PS) through various power outputs, the engine used as the new top of the range is a 3.0 litre V6 diesel. It provides power output of 238bhp (241PS) dependent on the export market. A 298bhp (302PS) 2.3 litre turbo-charged petrol engine will be available for some global markets.
All this power is delivered, as a standard fitment, via a new 10-speed automatic gearbox served via a by-wire e-shifter. The base model gets a manual ‘box as standard but the auto is an option. In addition, there will be 6-speed automatic transmission and manual 6- or 5-speed gearboxes for various engines to order.
In many markets the Amarok is being supplied with all-wheel drive (4MOTION) as standard. Depending on region and engine there will be two different 4MOTION systems here: one with selectable all-wheel drive based on the given situation, and one with permanent all-wheel drive. The drive system technology ensures that the new Amarok is able to master any terrain and depending on engine version is permitted to tow up to 3.5 tonnes.
Early testing indicates that the new Amarok handles well for this type of vehicle. Naturally, given the nature of the beast, there’s a little body roll in corners but it’s better controlled than many rivals. Plenty of low-down power is on tap and, of course, when the going gets tough the Amarok really gets going, this new model being one of the best modern pickup trucks available today. Find out more from us about importing this great vehicle from the UK to New Zealand, Kenya and other destinations.
