Shifting into shopping mode
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Volkswagen has never been shy about exploring new segments of the market, so the arrival of the Volkswagen Amarok in 2010 was no great surprise. It certainly wasn’t Volkswagen’s first pickup, though in most markets it was the brand’s first entrant into a market dominated by models like the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi L200, and Ford Ranger.
We’re covering that first generation model here, which was replaced in 2022 by a model based on its previous rival, the Ford Ranger, with new engines, trim lines and features as a result. The outgoing model is still hugely popular with used buyers and now looks quite good value too - and in many ways is still just as capable as its replacement.
Today’s pickups are as much about image as they are ability, and the Volkswagen Amarok scores well on both fronts. It turns out that VW badge is hard to beat when it comes to pickup desirability, just as it is for people shopping for family cars, and there are plenty of people who will gravitate towards the Amarok simply to have a pickup from their favourite brand.
The truck’s handsome looks help - to our eyes, the chunky first-generation model is even better proportioned and has neater details than the 2022-on Ford Ranger-based model that replaced it. Inside, the VW influence is clear to see too, with a dashboard not unlike some of the brand’s SUVs from the 2010s - and none the worse for it, since the layout and usability are excellent. There’s plenty of space for five adults, too.
As for the all-important usability, a payload of just over 1,100kg in some models and a towing capacity of 3,000kg are both competitive, and the 1.5-metre long load bed is useful too. To drive, the Amarok was a step or two ahead of many of its contemporaries, especially in smooth and powerful V6 form. On-road handling is neat enough, it’s capable off-road, and the Amarok rock-solid and refined over longer distances.
There are several other trucks competing for your money and attention in this market. The Ford Ranger is one of the most popular, and 2022-on Amaroks are even based on the latest Ranger - though the newer VWs don’t yet get a ludicrously fun performance model like the Ranger Raptor. Others to consider include the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-Max. The Mercedes X-Class is an option too.
There’s something very satisfying about an Amarok with V6 power. Not only do you get more performance, but there’s little economy penalty when compared to the four-cylinder models, and the six-cylinder engine note is more cultured too - if you can afford the extra outlay up front, it’s a win-win. Most models get a smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox too, to make the best of the extra performance. Trendline trim should suit most tradespeople, but if your Amarok is also going to be doing family duty, you may appreciate the extra features of the Highline.
The Volkswagen Amarok’s exterior dimensions are:
The Volkswagen Amarok’s payload capacity is:
If you’re running the Amarok as a private family car, rather than a commercial vehicle, you’re subject to a flat rate of road tax for any model registered after April 1, 2017, currently set at £190 per year. This makes these later models advantageous to tax, since 2010-2017 models are taxed based on CO2, so most models (with their CO2 emissions between 209-220g/km) attract a bill of £415 a year. On a light goods vehicle tax rate, annual VED is £335.
Insurance groups for the Amarok don’t seem too bad, with the range sitting between group 7-10, though actual insurance premiums will vary significantly depending on how you’ll be using the vehicle, so it’s worth seeking out quotes before you buy.
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