The eagerly-awaited, second-generation Volkswagen Amarok made its Irish debut at luxurious Carton House Estate in Kildare last week. Powered by efficient four- and six-cylinder turbocharged engines, the Amarok is already a firm favourite with Irish buyers. More than 830,000 first generation Amaroks were sold worldwide since its introduction in 2010. A major model update in 2016 saw the addition of Volkswagen’s powerful and refined V6 TDI engines, opening the Amarok up to a whole new customer base.
The second-generation model builds on an already successful formula thanks to the addition of more than 25 assistance systems, infotainment displays measuring up to 12.3in, and high-quality materials throughout.
The new Amarok is the perfect partner for any work or leisure activity thanks to a payload of up to 1.19 tonnes and 3.5 ton towing capacity. Available in five trim levels – Amarok, Life, Style, PanAmericana and Aventura – it is available in Ireland as a double cab, four-door pick-up.
At 5,350 mm long, the new Amarok is 96 mm longer than its predecessor. A wheelbase of 3,270 mm represents an increase of 173 mm, providing more room in the spacious double cab. Reduced overhangs result in crisp proportions and improved off-road capability. Ramp angles have been increased to 30-degrees at the front and 26-degrees at the back to improve clearance on rough terrain. Meanwhile, wading depth has been boosted from 500 mm to 800 mm.
Designed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to go anywhere, the new Amarok comes as standard with all-wheel drive. Three efficient four- and six-cylinder turbo diesel engines deliver the power needed for any task.
The range starts with a 168HP version of the 2.0-litre TDI power unit (available in entry-level Amarok and Life) trims. Stepping up to the Style model increases output of the 2.0 TDI engine to 202HP and adds a 10-speed automatic transmission (optional in Life trim).
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ acclaimed six-cylinder, 3-litre TDI power plant – the refined V6 that gave pick-ups mainstream appeal in Ireland – is available in Style, PanAmerica and Aventura models. Power has increased to 237HP, making light work of heavy loads, while power is channelled through a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
In Ireland, all Amaroks with automatic transmissions are allowed to tow trailers up to 3.5 tonnes. The permissible total weight of vehicle and trailer has increased from 6 to 6.5 tonnes. Meanwhile, the maximum payload has also increased, to 1.19 tonnes.
The Amarok comes with all-wheel drive (4MOTION) as standard. Depending on specification, up to 25 assistance systems make driving safer and even more effortless. Assistance features include automatic cruise control system, a parking assistant, 360-degree all-round view (‘Area View’), lane change assistant and road sign recognition.
Bold and dynamic, the new Amarok has an upright bonnet with integrated LED headlights as standard. PanAmerica and Aventura models receive IQ.LIGHT Matrix-LED headlights and an “Amarok” embossed stamp above the number plate holder. Half-round wheel arches give Volkswagen’s pick-up its distinctive look while the word Amarok is emblazoned across the tailgate.
With its practical controls and digital screens, the interior has been configured with function and quality in mind. Premium materials resemble those from the luxurious Volkswagen Touareg. Meanwhile, the instrument panel’s layout is clear, well structured, and ergonomically tailored to the driver.
The new Amarok range starts from €47,355 for the entry-level Amarok model with a 2.0TDI 168HP engine. Standard equipment is generous, including power folding mirrors, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, VW Connect with eCall Emergency System and Online Voice Control, LED headlights, a 10.1in infotainment system, 8in multifunction display, semi-automatic air conditioning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear-View Camera and parking sensors.
Upgrading to Life (from €50,345) adds 17in alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, rear privacy glass, leather wrapped steering wheel, an electronic parking brake front sensors and rain/light sensing headlights and wipers. Style models (from €64,735) add 18in wheels, a chrome rear bumper, LED-Matrix headlights, heated ArtVelour seats, a 12in portrait-style touchscreen and 12.3-in instrument screen , 10-way electrically-adjustable seats, two-zone Climatronic A/C, Light Assist and Lane Assist.
PanAmerica models (from €68,620) get rugged X-shaped bumpers, LED rear lights, black styling bars and step bars, leather seat trims, a dedicated navigation system, 640-watt Harmon Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, electrically-adjustable passenger seats, black headliner and a 360-degree camera. Meanwhile, range-topping Aventura models (from €70,890) feature large 20in alloys, body coloured sports bars and chrome step bars.
As was the case with its predecessor, the large 1,651mm long by 1,584 mm wide cargo bed has enough room for a Euro pallet loaded sideways or lengthways. Loads are secured via robust lashing rings on the bed and side walls. The maximum height of the tail lift has also increased, dependent on specification, by as much as 21 mm to 529 mm. Static roof load capacity has increased to 350 kilograms – enough for a roof tent for overnight off-road adventures. Meanwhile, the list of options includes alloy wheels up to 21in, wireless smartphone charging, all-terrain tyres, bike holders, roll covers and a hard top for the cargo bed.
All Amarok models fitted with 12in infotainment systems are also equipped with VW Connect Navigation. This package includes Online Traffic Information, Online Route Calculation, Online Map Updates, POI Search, information on parking spaces and filling stations, and real-time weather updates. The WeConnect ID. App allows owners to interact using their smartphones while an integrated eSIM means infotainment updates can be carried out over the air.
Commenting on the all-new Amarok, Kim Kilduff, Head of Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland, said: “The first generation Amarok brought pick-ups to the mainstream and this second generation model is an upgrade in every way. It’s a charismatic vehicle with plenty of presence, on and off the road. The premium finish and refined driving experience have elevated it to another level while even the most challenging off-road experience cannot phase it. We knew we were getting a substantial upgrade but the last few days have proved the Amarok is setting a new benchmark for the pick-up sector here in Ireland.”
