VW Amarok Life

Well-Equipped Amarok Pickup Designed for Everyday Work and Use

The VW Amarok Life has caused a revolution in the pickup truck market, offering a unique blend of ruggedness and refinement. This comprehensive review of the 2024 model aims to provide potential buyers with an in-depth look at what the Volkswagen Amarok Life has to offer. From its robust exterior to its comfortable interior, the new VW Amarok Life has been designed to meet the needs of both work and leisure. See all VW Amarok for sale
This review will explore the Amarok Life's design and exterior features, delve into its interior comfort and technology, and examine its performance and powertrain. We'll also assess its off-road capabilities, safety features, and value proposition. By the end of this article, readers will have a clear understanding of what sets the VW Amarok Life apart in the competitive pickup truck segment and whether it's the right choice for their needs. See all VW Vans for sale

Design and Exterior Features

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life showcases a design that is unmistakably Amarok, yet larger, more powerful, sportier, and more charismatic than its predecessors. This new iteration of the popular pickup truck has caused a revolution in the market with its blend of ruggedness and refinement.

Key Features of the VW Amarok Life

The new Amarok Life colours has a strong, muscular appearance that sets it apart from other pickup trucks. Its half-round wheel arches form a straight line along the upper edge, a signature Amarok design element. The wings above the wheels have a robust look, surrounded by sturdy plastic around the arches, giving the impression of the Amarok accessories flexing its muscles.
One of the most eye-catching features is the tailgate, where the word 'Amarok' is embossed under the large VW symbol, spanning most of the tailgate's width. This bold branding adds to the truck's distinctive appearance.
For those seeking an even more aggressive stance, the Predator Stylish wheel arch extension kit is available. This kit, made from high-quality composite ABS, gives the Amarok a wider, more imposing presence and allows for the fitment of larger wheels and tires.

Dimensions and proportions

The 2024 Amarok Life comes in two body styles: a four-door double cab (DoubleCab) and a two-door single cab (SingleCab). Both versions feature the characteristic half-round wheel arches in silhouette, contributing to the truck's unique profile.
The Predator wheel arch extension kit provides approximately 40mm of extra tire coverage, enhancing both the vehicle's appearance and functionality. This additional width not only gives the Amarok a more rugged off-road look but also allows for improved performance with larger wheels and tires.

Available colors and trims VW Amarok Life

Volkswagen offers the Amarok Life in a range of factory colors, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. For those opting for the Predator wheel arch extension kit, it's worth noting that these can be color-coded to match the Amarok's alloy wheels factory colors, ensuring a seamless integration with the overall design.
The exterior trim options include LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs) as standard, enhancing both visibility and style. Side-steps are also included, improving access to the cabin while adding a touch of ruggedness to the overall design.
The Amarok Life comes with chunky 17-inch 'Combra' alloy wheels fitted with 255/70R17 tires, striking a balance between style and practicality. A full-size steel spare wheel is also provided, ensuring peace of mind during off-road adventures.
Other notable exterior features include a body color-coded front bumper, underbody drivetrain and fuel tank protection, and front recovery hooks. These elements not only enhance the Amarok's appearance but also contribute to its functionality and durability.

Interior Comfort and Technology

 

Cabin Layout and Materials

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin that exudes quality and comfort. High-grade materials are used throughout, creating an upscale ambiance that sets it apart from typical work trucks. The interior design strikes a balance between functionality and luxury, with a blend of digital displays and user-friendly physical controls.
The ergonomically designed front seats offer excellent support, with higher trims featuring electric adjustment for optimal comfort. In the DoubleCab version, the rear seats comfortably accommodate three adult passengers, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants. The Core model, while being the workhorse of the range, still impresses with its fabric seating and practical vinyl flooring, making it easy to clean after a hard day's work.

Infotainment System VW Amarok Life

At the heart of the Amarok Life's technology offerings is an advanced infotainment system. The centerpiece is a large touchscreen display, available in either 10-inch or 12-inch sizes depending on the trim level. This tablet-format screen is intuitive and responsive, providing easy access to a host of features and functions.
The system includes:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• DAB digital radio
• USB-A and USB-C ports
• Two 12-volt outlets
• Wireless phone charging capability

Complementing the central display is a digital instrument cluster. The base model features an 8-inch digital driver's display, while higher trims boast a fully digital 12-inch instrument panel. This setup ensures that all crucial information is readily available to the driver at a glance.
For audiophiles, the Amarok Life offers an exclusive Harman Kardon sound system. Standard in upper trims and optional for others, this premium audio system enhances the overall driving experience and aligns perfectly with the vehicle's high-quality ambiance.

Driver Assistance Features

The Volkswagen Amarok Predator Life comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance features, enhancing both safety and convenience. These systems include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Automatic emergency braking

It's worth noting that while these features contribute to a safer driving experience, some users have reported challenges with the lane assist system, particularly on country roads. However, the system's sensitivity can be adjusted, and it can be easily deactivated with a double tap of a dedicated button when not needed.
The combination of these advanced technologies, comfortable seating, and premium materials creates an interior environment that is both functional for work and luxurious for leisure. Whether tackling a long road trip or navigating city streets, the Amarok Life's interior ensures maximum comfort and convenience, elevating the overall driving experience.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life offers a range of powerful and efficient engine options designed to suit various driving needs. This new iteration of the popular pickup truck has set a new standard in the midsize truck segment, blending exceptional performance with versatility. See VW Amarok MPG

Engine options

The Amarok Life comes equipped with a TDI405 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. This powerplant has been engineered to deliver robust performance, making it suitable for both work-related tasks and leisure activities. The engine's design focuses on providing ample torque for towing and hauling, while also ensuring smooth operation during everyday driving.

Transmission choices

Paired with the TDI405 engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination offers a balance between performance and drivability, ensuring smooth gear changes and optimal power delivery across various driving conditions. The automatic transmission also contributes to the Amarok Life's ease of use, making it accessible to a wide range of drivers, from seasoned truck enthusiasts to those new to the pickup segment.

Fuel efficiency

While specific fuel consumption figures are not provided in the given information, it's worth noting that modern diesel engines, like the one in the Amarok Life, are generally known for their fuel efficiency. The 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine is likely to offer a good balance between power output and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for both work and personal use.
The Amarok Life's powertrain configuration has been designed to handle a variety of tasks. Its robust engine and transmission combination allows for confident acceleration, smooth cruising, and capable towing performance. This versatility makes the Amarok Life suitable for a wide range of applications, from daily commuting to more demanding work-related activities.
It's important to note that while the Amarok Life offers impressive performance capabilities, some users have reported issues with vibration coming through the seats, particularly in the 2023 model. Additionally, there have been mentions of problems with the engine management light and other minor issues. However, these reports seem to be isolated cases and may not be representative of the entire Amarok Life lineup.
Despite these reported issues, the overall performance and powertrain of the 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life appear to be well-suited to its role as a versatile pickup truck. The combination of a powerful turbo-diesel engine and a smooth-shifting automatic transmission provides a driving experience that balances capability with comfort, making it a compelling option in the midsize truck segment.

Off-Road Capabilities VW Amarok Life

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life has been engineered to tackle challenging terrains with ease. Its robust design and advanced features make it a formidable off-road vehicle, capable of handling various conditions with confidence.

4MOTION all-wheel drive system

The Amarok Life comes equipped with the 4MOTION selectable all-wheel drive system, which offers up to six different driving modes. This versatility allows drivers to adapt to various off-road conditions, making it the most capable and easy-to-drive Amarok ever. The system provides optimal traction and stability, ensuring that power is distributed effectively to all four wheels when needed.
To enhance its off-road capabilities further, the Amarok Life includes several key features:

1. Hill Start Assist: This feature prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines, making it easier to start off on uphill slopes.
2. Hill Descent Control: When navigating steep descents, this system takes control of the brake and throttle, guiding the vehicle down safely.
3. Trailer Sway Control (TSC): This system detects trailer sway and reduces vehicle speed to maintain control, ensuring safer towing in challenging conditions.

 

Ground clearance and approach angles

The Amarok Life boasts impressive off-road geometry, allowing it to navigate rough terrain with confidence:

• Approach Angle: 30°
• Departure Angle: 25.6°
• Ramp Angle: 22°
• Ground Clearance: 235 mm
• Wading Depth: 800 mm

These specifications enable the Amarok Life to clear obstacles and ford water crossings with ease. The substantial ground clearance of 235 mm provides ample space between the undercarriage and the terrain, reducing the risk of damage to vital components.
For those seeking even more off-road capability, Volkswagen offers a Lift-Kit Suspension System. This upgrade provides a 40 mm ride height lift, further improving the vehicle's ability to handle various terrains while enhancing load-carrying capability and overall comfort.

Towing capacity

The Amarok Life demonstrates its strength with an impressive 3.5-ton braked towing capacity. This capability makes it suitable for hauling heavy loads, whether for work or recreational purposes. The combination of powerful engines and robust construction ensures that the Amarok Life can handle towing tasks with ease.
To enhance its off-road prowess, Volkswagen offers several accessories designed specifically for the Amarok:

1. Amarok Snorkel: Designed to maximize clean airflow and maintain optimal engine temperature, this accessory features a reversible air ram to help prevent snow, dust, and water ingress. It's suitable for V6 diesel variants only.
2. Underbody Vehicle Protection: This accessory adds an extra layer of protection when venturing off-road. It's tough, durable, and can be easily disassembled for vehicle service access, compatible with Amarok diesel variants.

These features and accessories combine to make the Volkswagen Amarok Life a highly capable off-road vehicle, ready to tackle challenging terrains while providing comfort and reliability.

Safety Features and Ratings

Standard safety equipment

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life comes equipped with a comprehensive set of standard safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance overall vehicle safety. LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs) are included as standard, improving visibility in various driving conditions. The vehicle also features side-steps, which not only add to its rugged appearance but also provide easier access to the cabin.
Underbody protection for the drivetrain and fuel tank is standard, offering an extra layer of defense when navigating rough terrain. Front recovery hooks are also included, proving useful in emergency situations or during off-road adventures. A 3.5-ton tow-bar with a 12-pin plug comes as standard equipment, ensuring safe and reliable towing capabilities.
Other notable standard safety features include:

1. Locking rear differential
2. Tire pressure monitoring system
3. Rain-sensing wipers

Advanced driver aids

The Amarok Life is equipped with several advanced driver aids to enhance safety and driving comfort. An 8.0-inch digital driver's display provides crucial information at a glance, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road. The vehicle also features a 10-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system, which includes wireless phone charging and wireless Apple/Android connectivity.
While specific advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are not mentioned in the provided information, it's worth noting that modern vehicles in this class typically include features such as:

1. Lane departure warning
2. Forward collision warning
3. Automatic emergency braking

These systems work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate their severity when they do occur.

Crash test results VW Amarok Life

The provided information does not include specific crash test results for the 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life. However, it's important to note that vehicles in this class are typically subject to rigorous safety testing by independent organizations such as Euro NCAP or ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program).
It's worth mentioning that the safety features and construction of the Amarok Life have been designed to comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR). This compliance ensures that the vehicle meets the minimum safety standards required for use on Australian roads. The extracted information suggests that modifications to the vehicle that are not factory-fitted may not be ADR approved, highlighting the importance of maintaining the vehicle's original safety specifications.
Additionally, the Amarok Life has been designed with safety in mind when it comes to carrying loads. There are specific laws in Australia regarding how loads should be carried and secured, which the vehicle has been engineered to accommodate. This attention to load safety is particularly important for a utility vehicle like the Amarok Life, which is likely to be used for both work and leisure purposes involving cargo transportation.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life offers a range of trim levels to suit various needs and budgets. The pricing structure reflects the vehicle's positioning as a premium offering in the pickup truck segment.

Trim levels and pricing VW Amarok Life

The Amarok lineup starts at $52,000 for the base Life trim level. As buyers move up through the trim hierarchy, prices increase accordingly, reaching $73,500 for the top-of-the-line Aventura trim. This pricing strategy allows Volkswagen to cater to a wide range of customers, from those seeking a capable work vehicle to those desiring a luxurious pickup truck experience.
For those interested in the Core model, which serves as the workhorse of the Amarok range, the list price is $55,490. This positions it slightly higher than some major competitors, with a price point approximately 9.0 percent above rivals like the closely-related Ford Ranger XL ($50,880) and Toyota HiLux Workmate ($50,420).

Standard features

Despite its position as the entry-level model, the Amarok Core comes well-equipped with a variety of standard features that enhance its value proposition. These include:

• LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs)
• Side-steps for easy cabin access
• Underbody protection for the drivetrain and fuel tank
• Front recovery hooks
• 3.5-ton tow-bar with a 12-pin plug
• Locking rear differential
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Rain-sensing wipers

The exterior boasts a body color-coded front bumper and 17-inch 'Combra' alloy wheels fitted with 255/70R17 tires, giving it a more premium look compared to typical work trucks. A full-size steel spare wheel is also included.
Inside, the Amarok Core features fabric seating and practical vinyl flooring, making it easy to clean after a hard day's work. The technology package includes an 8.0-inch digital driver's display and a 10-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system. This system offers wireless phone charging, wireless Apple/Android connectivity, DAB digital radio, USB-A and USB-C ports, and two 12-volt outlets.

Competitors comparison VW Amarok Life

When compared to its main rivals, the Amarok Life offers a competitive package, albeit at a slightly higher price point. Its standard features and build quality justify the premium, positioning it as a more upscale option in the pickup truck market.
The new Amarok 2024 lineup introduces advanced transmission options, including a standard 10-speed automatic gearbox for versions producing 209 PS and above. The 204PS variant offers this gearbox as an option. Additionally, 6-speed automatic and manual 6- or 5-speed options are available for different engines, providing flexibility to suit various driving preferences and needs.
A key advantage of the Amarok is its standard all-wheel drive (4MOTION) system, available in many markets. Two 4MOTION systems are offered based on region and engine—selectable all-wheel drive and permanent all-wheel drive. These systems enhance the Amarok's capability on various terrains and enable it to tow up to 3.5 tons, depending on the engine variant.
While the Amarok Life may come with a higher initial cost compared to some competitors, its combination of premium features, advanced technology, and robust capabilities presents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a versatile and well-equipped pickup truck.

Conclusion VW Amarok Life

The 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life has caused a revolution in the pickup truck market, offering a unique blend of ruggedness and refinement. Its powerful engine options, advanced all-wheel drive system, and impressive off-road capabilities make it a strong contender in its class. The Amarok Life also shines with its well-appointed interior, cutting-edge technology features, and comprehensive safety package, providing a comfortable and secure driving experience for both work and leisure.
While the Amarok Life comes with a slightly higher price tag compared to some competitors, its premium features and build quality justify the cost. Its range of trim levels caters to various needs and budgets, from the capable Core model to the luxurious Aventura trim. To sum up, the 2024 Volkswagen Amarok Life stands out as a versatile and well-equipped pickup truck, offering a compelling package for those seeking a balance between capability and comfort in their vehicle.

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