WHAT I LIKE

tad bit wider than all of its competitors. This meant that I had to occasionally hug the corners as well as be mindful of the size of oncoming vehicles. From a handling perspective, it managed this effortlessly, and with the drum brakes, I was able to stop whenever I wanted.

By the time I reached Balcarres, I was still not able to test the four-wheel-drive system, which is constantly on, by the way. So I continued driving on the route, hoping to see some challenging terrain. Surprisingly, I didn’t. This was a trip a car could have made, which wasn’t my plan.

At this point, I started to search for an off-road challenge, so I found an area called Hardwar Gap, where the surface was rocky and the decline was at least 20 degrees. At this point, I eagerly pressed the off-road button, which doesn’t have a responsive click, so I had to look at the gauge cluster to know when it was on.

THE OFF-ROAD AMAROK EXPERIENCE

When this is done, the computer kicks into full swing by effectively searching for the wheel with the most traction while constantly applying brakes to the other wheels. This means that the only thing the driver is required to do is steer.

Of course, VW has some complicated term for this, but I don’t feel like getting into ‘encyclopedia’ mode. What’s important is that it actually works. My passengers were in disbelief, even when one of the wheels was off the ground, so they kept looking at the brake pedal to see if I would press it.

The only drawback in this The Amarok has a peppy 2.0L bi-turbo engine that pushes out 180hp.

mode is that the vehicle starts to consume a lot more gas as the computer is actively applying the power and the brake simultaneously.

Another noteworthy point is that there is no four-wheel low gear. VW, instead, expects the driver to use the tiptronic and manually put the vehicle in first gear for steep inclines or declines. The company states that its first gear is lower than that of other vehicles, which

provides the adequate torque needed to do the task.

Design- and mechanical-wise, it’s a pick-up that is ahead of its time, which can be a good or a bad thing, depending on the perspective of the buyer. The purist may want something that is more engaging, while the newage driver will welcome all this technological assistance. In 10 years’ time, I’m almost certain that most pick-ups will use the Amarok mechanical template. Very responsive engine. Intuitive technology for offroad driving. Rear sensors come standard. Absorbs potholes at high speeds very well.

GRIPES

Seats have limited adjustment options. Centre bin below the arm rest does not have a latch. Leather steering feels a bit hard.

SPECS

Engine: 2.0L bi-turbo Hp: 180hp Torque: 400N/M Towing capacity Transmission: 8 speed DSG, Automatics Type of rear suspension: leaf springs and shocks Ground clearance : 8”/ 230mm Width: 6.4 feet/1944 mm Length: 16.99 feet/ 5181mm Gas Tank size: 80L

PRICE OPTIONS

Cost of test model: $6.290m Price Range for the model: $4.195m - $8.795m Contact info: email – VWSales@atlautomotive.com or telephone - 1-888-ATL-SERV