There’s a new ute hitting town in Australia, and it’s set to really shake up the market. Say hello to the 2023 Volkswagen Amarok.
This is VW’s answer to the latest Ford Ranger. Actually, it’s based on the Ford Ranger and borrows some components. That includes, in upper spec models, Ford’s 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 engine option.
Five main variants are going on sale here in Australia, including a base Core, Life, Style, PanAmericana, and Aventura. These are all in dual-cab body style and all feature ‘4MOTION’ all-wheel drive.
Interestingly, the new Amarok brings in a 2.3-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine option for the first time. This is a Ford-based unit that generates 222kW and 452Nm. It’s available in the flagship Aventura spec only, with the V6 diesel as an alternative.
Kicking off the range is the Core. This is the rugged and dependable ‘council-spec’ option and it comes fitted with VW’s 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. It generates 125kW and 405Nm, and is available with a six-speed auto.
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a tow bar with a 12-pin plug. There’s also a 10-inch touch-screen media system inside and 8.0-inch instrument cluster, along with a variety of advanced safety systems.
Moving up, the Life brings in a 154kW and 500Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder, equipped with twin-turbo technology. This is a Ford-based engine and comes matched with a 10-speed auto. It also adds LED fog lights, an electronic park brake with rear disc brakes, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Going for the Style introduces the option of the V6 diesel, as well as the 154kW 2.0L unit. The Style sets it self apart from the other entry models with things like IQ.Light matrix LED headlights, a 12-inch touch-screen system, 360-degree parking cameras, and power front seats.
As you step up to the PanAmericana, luxury and additional frills are added on. This variant is available with the V6 diesel only, generating 184kW and 600Nm (same as Ford Ranger), and comes with 18-inch alloy wheels wearing all-terrain tyres, dark exterior trimmings, a premium Harman/Kardon stereo, and bespoke upholstery.
Lastly, the Aventura adds 21-inch alloy wheels, Savona leather upholstery, a powered roller shutter over the tub, and chrome exterior highlights for that elegant touch. This model is likely to be quite a popular one. VW Australia said:
“In 2020, 58 per cent of Amarok customers selected a high-grade variant and 42 per cent a lower-grade variant. By 2022, 78 per cent favoured a high grade Volkswagen ute.”
All offer a 3500kg braked towing rating, and the GCM rating is up 400kg to 6400kg. Tow ball down weight is also increased from 300kg to 350kg.
All models are covered by a five-year warranty, and customers can select between five individual services in 12-month/15,000km intervals, or go for the 5 Year Care Plan with upfront payment.
The new ute is available to order in Australia now with prices starting from the following (not including on-road costs):
2023 Volkswagen Amarok Core
2.0 TDI405 4MOTION Selectable 6 Speed Auto $52,990:
2023 Volkswagen Amarok Life
2.0 TDI500 4MOTION Selectable 10 Speed Auto: $56,990
2023 Volkswagen Amarok Style
2.0 TDI500 4MOTION Selectable 10 Speed Auto: $66,990
3.0 TDI600 4MOTION Permanent 10 Speed Auto: $70,990
2023 Volkswagen Amarok PanAmericana
3.0 TDI600 4MOTION Permanent 10 Speed Auto: $75,990
2023 Volkswagen Amarok Aventura
3.0 TDI600 4MOTION Permanent 10 Speed Auto: $79,990
2.3 TSI452 4MOTION Permanent 10 Speed Auto: $79,990
