2017 Volkswagen Amarok V6 TDI550 Ultimate Review | Big Grunt With A Softer Side
Dual-cab utes are nothing new in Australia. But over the last few years the segment has grown in popularity to challenge traditionally strong passenger car sales. And now with the Ford Falcon ute bowing out in 2016 and the Holden Commodore set to follow this year a new niche has opened itself up.
Instead of being gritty, work focussed or uncouth, the Volkswagen Amarok is the kind of dual-cab ute that melds workplace functionality with passenger car comfort. It’s arrival in 2011 shook the ute segment in Australia, delivering an interior that traditional 4x4s could only dream of.
Back then the 2.0-litre four-cylinder range didn’t have the grunt to match its rivals, but now with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel under the bonnet the Amarok boasts some of the strongest outputs in its class. However, it is inside where the Amarok, particularly in top-shelf Ultimate trim, really stamps its authority.
Vehicle Style: Dual-cab ute
Price: $ $67,990 (plus on-roads)
Engine/trans: 165kW/550Nm 3.0-litre 6cyl turbo diesel
Fuel Economy Claimed: 7.8 l/100km | Tested: 9.4 l/100km
OVERVIEW
With a fully stocked range for the 2017 model year, the Amarok spans everything from work ready base trims in the form of the four-cylinder Amarok, Amarok Core and Amarok Core Plus to luxed-up V6-powered Highline and Ultimate models.
The car you see here is the flagship Ultimate, a true business class update on the classic dual-cab ute formula.
It may not be quite as capable as some of the more rugged offerings in its segment thanks to the lack of a low range transfer case and is fitted with massive 19-inch wheels wrapped in road-going low profile tyres but it is an exceedingly polished car that also happens to be capable of carrying 864 kilograms or towing up to three tonnes.