Technical specifications
VW Amarok
Volkswagen recently presented the new Amarok. This is now equipped with a V6 diesel engine of the latest generation. The front received a new design and we also find numerous novelties in the interior. For example, the Amarok can be equipped with back-friendly 14-way adjustable ergoComfort seats at the front.
3.0 V6 TDI
The new VW Amarok is equipped with a V6 3.0 TDI engine with a power of 204 hp or 224 hp and a max. torque of 550 Nm. The top speed is 193 km/h and the Amarok reaches 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The Amarok has permanent four-wheel drive 4MOTION and all models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This premium pick-up is also perfectly suitable for off-road use and also has a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons and a loading capacity of up to 1.0 tons. The prices are between 33,730 euros excl. VAT for a Comfortline with 204 hp and 36,500 euros excl. VAT for a Highline with 224 hp.
We were introduced to the new Amarok through a test drive with the 224 hp version. You certainly won’t be short of anything in terms of assets. In this version the car drives quickly and smoothly, even on the highway.
Comfortable seats
In the interior of the new Amarok, extra attention has also been paid to the comfort of the occupants. For example, we find new 14-way adjustable ergoComfort front seats. Both front seats can be adjusted electrically in 12 ways via a button and manually in 2 ways. The seats have received the ‘AGR’ label from the ‘Aktion Gesunder Rücken eV’ (German Association for a Healthier Back) and are distinguished by sporty shaped side bolsters with improved comfort and optimal ergonomics.
Cargo space
The large loading platform of the Amarok offers a loading area of 2.52 m2, has 508 mm high side walls and a loading sill height of 780 mm. With a loading width of 1,222 mm, even Euro pallets can be loaded crosswise. The tailgate of this pick-up can carry a load of up to 200 kg and can also be used as an extension of the loading platform. You can also find a 12 V connection on the left inner wall of the loading platform.
Safety and driver assistance systems
The Amarok is available with various safety systems. For example, there is the new automatic anti-multi-crash braking function that activates the brakes after an accident to prevent additional collisions. ESP is also available and the Amarok is also equipped with 17-inch brake discs at the front and 16-inch brake discs at the rear. These must ensure that the pick-up has sufficient braking power, even under heavy loads.
The Amarok also offers various options in the field of driver assistance systems. We would certainly opt for the “Rear View” reversing camera. This provides an image of the area behind the vehicle. On the screen you will also see static guide lines that make parking easier. The Parkpilot then displays audio signals when obstacles are detected while parking. Hill Start Assist is also definitely worth a try. This system consists of a starting aid on a slope that ensures that the car does not roll backwards when you start uphill.
Conclusion
The new Amarok looks handsome and cool on the outside, especially with certain chrome parts, such as the Styling bar “Plus”. On the inside, the Amarok looks sleek and sober with a finish that feels high-quality and sturdy. The back-friendly ergonomic seats are also an asset, especially for the professional user.

Johan De Haes
Test driver