Production of the Amarok is set to begin shortly at Volkswagen’s plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a New Zealand launch in late 2010. Final Amarok New Zealand specifications will be confirmed early next year.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has chosen a high-tech turbo-diesel powertrain for the Ute’s launch. The 120kW 2.0 TDI with common rail injection has two-stage bi-turbo turbo charging, which generates a torque of 400Nm at a low 1500rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The engine also excompasses pioneering fuel consumption values, such as the Amarok 4MOTION with switchable high/low all-wheel drive, and an upshift gear indicator.
In the 4×4 version, fuel consumption is rated at 7.8 litres/100km (206 g/km CO2). Thanks to its 80-litre tank, Volkswagen says the Ute is also capable of ranges of over 1000 kilometres.
The Amarok 4MOTION with switchable high/low all-wheel drive, signified by a red “4” in its rear badging, uses a positive clutch. When engaged by pushing a button, it produces rigid power transfer between the axles. For the most difficult jobs, low off-road gearing is also provided; Volkswagen says the Amarok can even conquer 45 degree gradients with full cargo loading.
Different equipment lines are available on the Amarok; depending on your intended application. The Amarok will be available in New Zealand in standard ‘worker’ spec as well as a high spec version for use as the lifestyle vehicle.
The exclusive high-end version Amarok features part-chrome mirror housings, various chrome accents outside and inside the vehicle, fender skirt extensions that will fit 17” alloy wheels. In addition, this top equipment line will be characterised by a colour contrasting instrument panel (depending on vehicle configuration), automatic climate control (Climatronic), leather detailing, Multi-Connect load securing system, and fabric seat covering (optional leather).
An accessories programme will also be offered for the Amarok – from a styling bar, running boards, cargo covers and load transport options, and a selection of alloy wheels.
On a truck bed height of 525mm, the Amarok’s cargo area measures 2.52m² (1555mm length, 1620mm width). And, the 1222mm width between wheel wells means, for the first time on a mid-size Ute, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space. Thanks to its large dimensions and a payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes, sports equipment like quads and bulky machinery can also be transported.
In addition, the (optional) tow bar “hitch” can handle up to 2.8 tonnes trailer load.
Safety features include side curtain airbags for the front passengers, ABS and ASR, electronic differential lock, pushbutton off-road ABS, and seatbelts for five.
Volkswagen says the Off-Road ABS significantly shortens braking distances on off-road trails and gravel roads. With the ESP system, when Offroad-ABS is enabled at vehicle speeds under 30kmh this also activates Hill Descent Assist. It keeps driving speed constant by selective braking interventions, enabling safe and controlled hill descents. For the first time in this vehicle class, when driving under 30 km/h the driver can individually set the driving speed for the given descent conditions by braking and accelerating.
Read more about the Volkswagen Amarok here.
