Volkswagen Amarok to get updated styling, new tech and V6 engine

The Volkswagen Amarok will get a major update for the 2017 model year in Australia, including a powerful new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, making the German one-tonner the only V6-powered ute in its class.

Launched in Germany this week, the latest Amarok features a fresh dashboard, more ergonomic seats, Servotronic steering, bigger wheels, new front styling and bi-xenon headlights.

Volkswagen claims the bigger engine, when paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, will achieve a combined NEDC fuel consumption figure of just 7.6L/100km.

The new engine will be available in different power levels to suit each of the three drive systems available – rear-wheel drive, 4MOTION (on-demand all-wheel drive) and permanent four-wheel drive.

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In the top-spec Amarok, the V6 turbo-diesel makes 165kW and 550Nm, which is significantly more than rivals such as the popular Ford Ranger, Mazda BT-50 and Holden Colorado.

The range-topping Amarok consequently gets bigger brakes, but all models in the range will also benefit from VW’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.

Volkswagen claims the new model will be able to tow up to 3.5 tonnes, further bolstering its role as a key player in its class since arriving in Australia in 2011.

To be released in Europe in September, a flagship Amarok Aventura model (pictured above) will feature a body-coloured sports bar, 20-inch wheels, LED lighting, bi-xenon headlights, and a reversing camera with Park Distance Control.

The new-for-2017 Amarok follows the arrival last year of a new Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara.

Volkswagen will launch the new model in Australia late this year.

Click here to read the full review on the Volkswagen Amarok range.