The terrain with the new Amarok: Volkswagen for tough jobs

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With more than 830,000 sold, VW’s first Amarok generation is considered a success. The brand is now working with Ford for the new version: the new Amarok, which has just arrived at dealerships, is the Ford Ranger’s technical twin – VW, however, has made its own way in terms of design. But among field professionals, Amarok was still missing that last effort to safely dig through the dirt. Last December we managed to drive the new Amarok through the sands of South Africa. Now we got into the mud with him at Seelisberg UR.

Tech brothers, optical competitors

For the new Amarok, VW is borrowing a turbodiesel from the Ford shelf. The two-liter four-cylinder engine comes in 170 and 209 hp (125 and 154 kW); the top model is the three-liter V6 with 250 hp (184 kW). There is only a manual transmission for the entry-level version, while the other two come with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the engine, there is the option of switchable or permanent all-wheel drive.

Visually, the Amarok is absolutely solid, with its beefy front and wide radiator grille. The rear also features wide fenders and an embossed Amarok lettering. Technically the Amarok and Ranger are the same – they are drastically different visually. VW’s design line: rustic on the outside, comfortable on the inside. Comfortable seats, ample space for up to five people, digital displays and high-quality materials in the interior have replaced the hard plastic of the previous model.

towards the land

But what is the pick-up now – work vehicle or lifestyle vehicle? The rainy weather of the last few days provides optimal conditions on the terrain track at the Seelisberg event centre: rocky roads with deep chutes and puddles. Ramps and slopes are covered with slippery mud.

Thanks to all-wheel drive, which in the top version can be operated with a rotary switch and automatically distributes the power, our Amarok digs up steep gorges with ease. On rough terrain, the differential lock on the rear axle is activated to evenly distribute power to both wheels. Hill descent assist, multiple driving modes and a well-balanced chassis tackle even the toughest bumps with an incredible amount of ride comfort. As a highlight, there was a taxi ride over the barn roof using a ramp – which the power plant accomplished with ease.

get on asphalt

Of course, the Amarok must be able to move not only off-road, but also on the road. For everyday use, comfort and handling clearly take priority. That’s what the lifestyle pick-up has to offer: It accelerates quickly and moves gently thanks to precise steering.

In addition, thanks to the new auxiliary systems in the vehicle: piloted driving is possible with the help of automatic distance control in combination with the lane departure warning system. The Amarok can even maneuver into gaps with parking aid – manual as well as child’s play thanks to the 360-degree all-round view.

Wide price range

In Switzerland, the Amarok is offered as standard as an all-wheel drive vehicle with a double cabin and three diesel engines. There are also five new equipment lines: Basis, Life, Style and the two top versions Panamericana with an off-road look, and the Aventura with a special street style.

Prices vary greatly depending on the line of equipment. The basic version with 170 HP and manual transmission is available from 50,544 CHF, for the 240 HP top version Aventura from at least 74,604 CHF. Ford’s Ranger is slightly cheaper at 48,000 francs.

Source: Blick