New Volkswagen Amarok is better than ever
IN the world of vehicle manufacturing, it sometimes happens that car brands join forces to improve products, share expertise and reduce costs.
That is what Volkswagen decided to do with its new Amarok pick-up truck, as it has been developed alongside the new Ford Ranger.
The only shared parts visible on the outside are the roof, mirror casings and door handles, but unique exterior Amarok features include the bonnet, LED headlights, front wings and door panels, along with the rear tailgate which is embossed with ‘Amarok' to certify its identity. The Amarok's cabin is noticeably different to that found in the Ford Ranger, as it features bespoke seats, a different steering wheel and a unique dashboard design.
The portrait-orientated touchscreen controls the Amarok's infotainment functions and it comes with Apple and Android smartphone mirroring as standard.
Trim variants in the new Amarok consist of a core model (simply badged ‘Amarok'), Life, Style, Pan Americana, and the range-topping Aventura – all of which have a maximum brakedtrailer towing capacity of 3500kg.
The cargo bed can take two Euro pallets when placed sideways, and the standard lashing rings can be used to tie down loads of up to 400kg when required.
The plastic trim-coated cargo area can be secured with an optional manual or electric roll cover, and buyers can also opt for a full-height enclosed hardtop for even greater practicality.
All Amarok variants come with ‘4Motion' four-wheel drive as standard, and the entry-level model comes with a 168bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine and a sixspeed manual gearbox.
A ten-speed automatic gearbox is standard on the midrange 202bhp 2.0-litre and the range-topping 237bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel engines.
The new Amarok is only available in a double-cab body style, so it comes with four door and seating for up to five occupants as standard.
Measuring in at 5,330mm in length, the new Amarok is 96mm longer than its predecessor, and its wheelbase has grown by 173mm to provide rear seat occupants with impressive leg room. Body overhangs have been cleverly reduced in order to increase approach and departure angles for better off-road capability, and an improved wading depth of 800mm has also been achieved.
My review vehicle was a new Amarok Aventura 3.0 TDI 4Motion in Mid Blue metallic paint for maximum visual impact.
The suburban-focused Aventura comes as standard with 21-inch ‘Varberg' alloy wheels, side steps with chrome inserts, chrome exterior door mirrors and door handles, rear bumper with chrome inserts, an X-design front bumper, Harmon Kardon premium sound system, body-coloured sports bar, LED Matrix headlights, LED taillights, Park Assist (front & rear parking sensors), a 12-inch touchscreen navigation system, a 12.3-inch digital cockpit with colour screen, and high-quality leather seats.
Also standard is a fixed towbar, a differential lock, anti-theft system, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and an area-view camera.
The mighty V6 powerplant pulls very well at low and high speeds and it remains smooth and strong throughout the entire rev range.
The fluid steering and taut suspension provide the Amarok with excellent poise on a twisty back road, and its body control is very good by class standards.
The engine idles quietly with only a small amount of distant clatter under load and when revving, but the overall driving experience remains very pleasant and well mannered, resulting in passenger-car levels of refinement and sophistication.
The spacious and well-appointed cabin provides occupants with lots of head, leg and elbow room, and there is excellent visibility for the driver and their passengers.
With an official fuel consumption figure of 10.2L/100km, the 80-litre fuel tank can potentially provide up to 784kms of driving pleasure between fill-ups.
The new VW Amarok is a truly classy and convincing pick-up truck that can comfortably accommodate up to five occupants, along with a large and practical cargo area that has space for two Euro pallets.
Ex-delivery pricing starts at €48,930 (inc VAT), with my range-topping review vehicle priced from €72,255 (inc VAT).