Amarok V6 Diesel Gains A Third Pedal.
Proving that some manufacturers do listen to customer feedback, Volkswagen has given its V6 diesel Amarok a third pedal. The Amarok V6 Core TDI500 4×4 Performance has 165kW between 3,250rpm and 4,500rpm, and a very decent 500Nm of torque from 1,250rpm to 3,000rpm. This means it’s good for a towed (braked) capacity of 3.0 tonnes. Payload is 1,004 kilograms.
Ryan Davies, The Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia, Ryan Davies, said: “At every off-road, caravan and camping expo and Big Red Bash concert the team and I attend, we speak with current owners and members of the off-roading community who have begged us to bring an Amarok V6 manual to Australia. It was because of that passion that we were able to mount a case with our head office in Germany to build one and, based on Australia remaining the number one export market in the world for the V6 Amarok, we are finally able to offer this unique, Aussie-spec ‘Rok.”
It’s the addition of the six speed manual that makes the difference here. The six-speed manual gearbox is paired with a non-permanently engaged four-wheel drive system, whereas the eight speed auto has a permanent full-time 4WD setup. The part-time transfer box permits two gear stages which is the engagement of the front driven wheels and changing to the reduction speed, or low range, transmission. These are activated electronically via console mounted buttons, meaning no mechanical lever is required to get ready for muddy or off-road excursions. There is also an off-road mode, which is activated by the press of a button or automatically when 4×4 low range is engaged. A mechanical rear-axle differential lock is fitted as standard.
Hill–descent assist limits downhill velocities by acting upon all four brakes as required, and will work at keeping the speed as constant as possible. This works best between two and thirty kilometres per hour. It will also assist in reversing situations downhill.
Inside there is heavy duty rubber coverings for the front and rear seats to help with cleaning after going off-road, The steering wheel is leather wrapped, climate control is of the semi-automatic style, and VW’s App-Connect system is standard, The rear view camera adds an extra safety level with Park Distance Control. 17 inch wheels and LED running lights add some visual appeal, as do the extras for the Core Enduro version.
A black sports bar behind the cabin, a bonnet protector, and Enduro decals in black provide spice. Pricing is competive, with the Core 4×4 six speed manual listing at $49,590 whilst the Enduro lists at the same price. Check with your Volkswagen dealer to be sure.
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