Gallery | New Volkswagen Amarok: 10 ways it’s more Amarok than ever

Sequels are tough to crack, but when done right they can often better the first – think The Godfather Part II, The Empire Strikes Back and Aliens. Now you can add the all-new Volkswagen Amarok to that list, because it builds on everything that’s great about its award-winning predecessor to create a blockbuster pickup that’s even bigger, even more cosseting and even more capable than ever before.

The new Amarok is 96mm longer than the previous-generation Amarok. Its wading depth has increased from 500mm to 800mm, while 20 all-new safety assists come as standard. Plus, with the choice of four value-adding trim levels, three high-torque diesel engines, and a wealth of accessories, there’s sure to be an Amarok to suit your needs.

So, whether you’re a sole trader who needs a dependable, versatile and off-road-ready pick-up truck to work even harder for your business, or a family looking to go bigger on weekend adventures, we’ve pulled together a list of the 10 ways in which the all-new Amarok is even more Amarok than ever.

With the new Amarok, Volkswagen’s design team drew on the strong lines and bulging arches that made the first-generation Amarok so distinctive, and have simply turned every element up to 11.

Up front, the new Amarok’s near full-width grille works with the towering bonnet, neatly integrated IQ.LIGHT LED Matrix headlights and X-shaped bumper design on selected trims to create an imposing yet sleek look. Further back, the squared wheel arches are more pronounced than before, while – at the rear – the trim-specific C-shape LED lights, frame-like bars and debossed AMAROK lettering across the entire width of the tailgate all leave a lasting impression.

The stylish alloy wheels (up to 21 inches in size) and off-road tyres denote the Amarok’s duality perfectly, while the choice of eight exterior colours – including Midnight Black, Mid Blue and Deep Red – let you tailor the look of your Amarok exactly how you want it.

VW Amarok review

The first-generation Volkswagen Amarok was heralded for its class-leading load bay, making it one of the most truly practical pickups on sale. Now, the new Amarok is even more hard-working and versatile thanks to 96mm of additional length and 173mm of additional width, making for a bigger and even more practical bed.

Like the old Amarok, there’s enough space to load a Euro pallet sideways, while six lashing eyes can help keep all your things tied down and optional LED lights on selected trims help make loading and unloading easier and safer after the sun goes down. You also have the option of a retractable roll cover that can keep all your gear dry and secure, while a full-scale hardtop is available that transforms your Amarok into an SUV with the carrying capacity of a van.

VW Amarok review

Whether you’re a business owner looking to lug goods or your kit, or an adventurous family looking to go big on adventures, payload is important. Thankfully, the new Volkswagen Amarok boasts a maximum carrying capacity of 1.1 tonnes and can even carry up to 350kg on the roof (150kg more than before). So, whatever you’re carrying, you know the Amarok can get everything to your destination.

VW Amarok review

The first Volkswagen Amarok offered a wide range of efficient yet strong diesel powertrains, with the heavy-duty 3.0-litre V6 the jewel of the line-up. Now, the new Volkswagen Amarok offers even more choice.

To start, there’s the option of two 2.0-litre four-cylinder high-torque Euro 6-compliant diesel engines: the first with 170PS and 405Nm, the second with 205PS and 500Nm. Then, like the previous Amarok, the beast of the range is another smooth 3.0-litre V6 diesel with 240PS and a staggering 600Nm of torque – perfect for towing, hauling, cruising and extreme off-roading in equal measure.

VW Amarok review

A plush interior and oodles of space inside makes the new Amarok absolutely sublime on all kinds of asphalt road, but its true nature comes to life when the tarmac runs out. Shorter overhangs compared to the previous model yield better approach angles – 29 degrees at the front, and 21 degrees at the rear – while the new Amarok’s increased wading depth of 800mm is 300mm more than on the previous model.

Under the skin, Volkswagen’s confidence-inspiring 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system means the Amarok can tackle almost every type of terrain. You can choose between all-wheel-drive and two-wheel-drive depending on your surroundings, while specific setups for Snow/Sand, Mud/Rut and Tow/Haul can be selected via the centre console tailor the intelligent all-wheel-drive system to your exact needs at that time.

Power to the 4MOTION system is sent via either a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic gearbox depending on your personal preference, while towing capacity – thanks to 4MOTION – is up to a whopping 3.5 tonnes.

VW Amarok review

The added length and width of the new Volkswagen Amarok doesn’t just yield more space in the load bay. It also means passengers can enjoy even more legroom. Inside, the new Amarok can accommodate five people in luxury, while 20 individual cubbies, trays and storage slots are perfect for turning the Amarok into a true on-the-go office space or family hub, letting you store anything from tools and paperwork to devices and snacks.

VW Amarok review

Ever since it first hit showrooms in 2010, the Volkswagen Amarok has always been regarded as one of the most premium pickups on sale.

Now, the new model adds even more cosseting comfort thanks to features like 10-way electrically adjustable front seats on selected trims, and a beautiful blend of touch-sensitive and robust aluminium-cased switchgear that make every command easy. You also get additional features like heated seats, full leather interior, ambient lighting and an optional crisp eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for true audiophiles.

VW Amarok review

The new Volkswagen Amarok adds a wealth of intuitive advanced in-car technology to make every journey a joy. Top-spec models (Style trim and above) feature a crisp 12-inch digital driver display that provides vital information right in your eyeline, while the 12-inch tablet-like navigation touchscreen makes browsing your favourite music, finding destinations and adjusting vehicle settings a breeze.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come as standard, while Volkswagen Connected Mobile Services makes linking the new Amarok to your smartphone easier than ever – so that you can book services and receive live traffic updates in an instant. Wireless phone-charging is also available, while a further two USB-C ports mean even more devices can stay topped-up.

VW Amarok review

The new Volkswagen Amarok takes driving technology to the next level, with 30 driver assistance systems – 20 of which are completely new – that help keep you, your passengers and your cargo safer than ever.

Included in the new Amarok’s wealth of safety features is intelligent IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights that cut through the dark, Adaptive Cruise control that keeps you a safe distance from the car in front, Dynamic Road Sign Display that helps you stick to the speed limits, Intelligent Speed Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Assist, Traffic Jam Assist and Front Assist that lends an extra pair of eyes around town.

The Amarok was also awarded five stars by the experts at Euro NCAP who cited its wealth of standard driver assists and robust overall structure.

VW Amarok review

Finally, the new Volkswagen Amarok gives you the choice to make your Amarok truly yours. Four value-adding trim levels are available: Life, Style, PanAmericana and Aventura. You can also tailor your Amarok to your personal needs with an extensive range of accessories including a diverse array of trailer mounts, a bike carrier and all-terrain running gear.

So, those are the top 10 reasons why the all-new Volkswagen Amarok is more Amarok than ever before.

VW Amarok review