Are we nearing peak pickup? News that the updated 2017 Volkswagen Amarok will be powered exclusively by a 3.0-litre V6 engine suggests to me that the fashion for big off-roaders may be approaching a peak.
The new Volkswagen Amarok is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine.
I’m not suggesting that the Amarok won’t be a worthy and capable work horse. I’m sure this V6-powered example of German engineering will be a pleasure to work with. But a V6 soundtrack and in-cab opulence comes at a price. How many commercial buyers will opt to buy an Amarok (starting price £26,255+VAT) when they can opt for — say — a Mitsubishi L200 (starting price £17,999 +VAT)?
In my opinion, Volkswagen’s move to become the only marque offering a UK-spec pickup with a V6 diesel is as much about kerb appeal as it is about functionality. So what will the firm’s affluent buyers able to get for their cash?
UK customers can choose from selectable (with manual gearbox) and permanent (with auto) 4MOTION four-wheel drive. An optional mechanical rear-axle differential lock is also available for demanding off-road use.
The outside of the new Amarok features an updated bumper and radiator grille design, together with new-look lights and V6 badging.
Inside the cab, it’s more luxury car than beast of burden. The new Amarok will be equipped with Volkswagen’s MIB infotainment system with touchscreen, radio and new technology including the option of navigation, Guide & Inform, Car-Net and App-Connect systems. Bluetooth and DAB digital radio are also now standard features.
Inside the new Volkswagen Amarok. More luxury car than off-road workhorse.
As you’d expect, the list of standard safety features is long and very reassuring. All new Amaroks will be fitted with four airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme and Volkswagen’s award-winning Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Optional extras such as Park Pilot and a rear-view camera offer boost convenience and safety. After all, fitting this beast into a tight town centre parking space won’t be easy!
Here’s a summary of prices and specifications that are now available to order. Trim levels are carried across from VW’s UK van range, so an entry-level Startline model will be available at a later stage:
| Model | Engine | Basic RRP exc. VAT | Total RRP inc. VAT | Total RRP inc. OTR exc. VAT | Total RRP inc. OTR inc. VAT |
| Trendline | 3.0 V6 TDI 204 PS 8spd auto 4MOTION | £26,255.00 | £31,506.00 | £27,125.00 | £32,493.00 |
| Highline | 3.0 V6 TDI 204 PS 8spd auto 4MOTION | £29,995.00 | £35,994.00 | £30,865.00 | £36,981.00 |
| Highline | 3.0 V6 TDI 204 PS 8spd auto 4MOTION | £30,495.00 | £36,594.00 | £31,365.00 | £37,581.00 |
| Aventura | 3.0 V6 TDI 204 PS 8spd auto 4MOTION | £31,995.00 | £38,394.00 | £32,865.00 | £39,381.00 |
Source: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK
I’m sure the new Amarok will be popular and capable. But I reckon there are cheaper options that are equally capable for trade crews needing a work pickup for genuine off-road use.
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