VW Amarok PanAmericana

Off-Road Focused Amarok Pickup with Premium Capability

The VW Amarok Panamericana stands out as a pinnacle of adventure-ready pickups, combining rugged capability with refined luxury. This special edition model elevates the already impressive Amarok lineup, offering a unique blend of off-road prowess and premium features. The Amarok Panamericana has been designed to tackle the most challenging terrains while providing comfort and style for long-distance journeys. Source
This article delves into the key aspects that make the VW Amarok Panamericana a standout vehicle in its class. We'll explore its striking exterior design, powerful performance capabilities, and advanced off-road features. Additionally, we'll take a closer look at its upscale interior, impressive towing capacity, and how it stacks up against competitors in the off-road pickup segment. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of what makes the Amarok Panamericana a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Design and Exterior Features

The VW Amarok Panamericana showcases a striking design that combines rugged functionality with refined esthetics. This special edition model builds upon the already impressive Amarok lineup, offering a unique blend of off-road prowess and premium features. Cheapest way to VW Amarok lease.

Key Features of the VW Amarok PanAmericana

The new Amarok Panamericana is defined by clear, powerful contours and a slightly wider stance, presenting a confident and rugged appearance. Its perfected body proportions ensure optimized driving characteristics both on-road and off-road. The vehicle's front section features a distinctive X-shaped design, which is exclusive to the top trim levels, including the Panamericana. The entry model is the VW Amarok Style 
One of the most eye-catching elements is the radiator grille, which merges seamlessly into the horizontal division of the front section. The Panamericana model also boasts black powder-coated styling bars and side steps, creating a striking contrast with the color-contrasting exterior mirrors, bumpers, and door handles.
Adding to its visual appeal, the Amarok Panamericana comes equipped with modern "IQ.Light" LED matrix headlights, enhancing both esthetics and functionality. The vehicle's exterior is further accentuated by large 18-inch black alloy wheels, which are exclusive to the Panamericana trim and fitted with all-terrain tires for superior off-road performance. See all our VW Amarok for sale

Off-Road Ready Enhancements VW Amarok Pan America

The Amarok Panamericana has been designed to go wherever it needs to go, with all-wheel drive as standard. Its improved dimensions provide a higher slope angle, enhancing its off-road capability. The vehicle also features shorter overhangs and an impressive wading depth of 800mm, making it even more capable in challenging terrains than its predecessor. See all our VW Vans
To further bolster its off-road credentials, the Panamericana trim comes standard with a rear locking differential. This feature, combined with the all-terrain tires and robust construction, ensures that the Amarok Panamericana is ready to tackle the most demanding off-road conditions with ease. See all our VW Van Leasing Deals.
The vehicle's roof load capacity has been increased to an impressive 350kg when parked, allowing for the installation of optional accessories such as a roof tent. This feature adds a new dimension to the Amarok's adventure-ready capabilities, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and campers.

Cargo Capabilities

The Amarok Panamericana doesn't just excel in off-road performance; it also offers impressive cargo capabilities. The loading area features a longer 1,621mm load length, providing ample space for various cargo needs. Between the wheel arches, there's sufficient room for a Euro pallet to be loaded crosswise, which can be securely lashed in place using sturdy eyelets. See all VW Amarok vans for sale.
The cargo bed is equipped with six fixed load-lashing rings, three on each side of the cargo box. These rings have a total tensile load capacity of 400kg, ensuring that cargo remains secure during transport. The Amarok's maximum payload has been increased to a substantial 1.1 tons, making it highly capable for both work and leisure activities.
To enhance its practicality, the Amarok Panamericana offers a range of load bed accessories, including an electric roll top, hard tops, and load liners. These options allow owners to customize the cargo area to suit their specific needs, whether for professional use or adventure trips.
The cargo bed itself is 526mm tall and can be secured with an optional manual or electric roll cover. For those requiring even more versatility, a hardtop option is available, essentially transforming the pickup into a van or SUV-like vehicle, depending on the owner's perspective.
With its combination of rugged styling, off-road enhancements, and impressive cargo capabilities, the VW Amarok Panamericana stands out as a versatile and capable pickup truck, ready to tackle both everyday tasks and adventurous excursions with equal ease.

Powerful Performance VW Amarok Pan America

The VW Amarok Panamericana boasts impressive performance capabilities, thanks to its robust powertrain and advanced drivetrain technologies. This special edition model has been engineered to deliver exceptional power, smooth gear shifts, and superior traction in various driving conditions. See all pickup trucks for sale

3.0L V6 TDI Engine

At the heart of the Amarok Panamericana lies a potent 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine. This powerplant, shared with the Ford Ranger, represents a significant upgrade from the previous generation's 2.0-liter TDI engine. The V6 TDI engine produces an impressive 184kW (250 PS; 247 hp) of power and a substantial 600Nm of torque, positioning the Amarok Panamericana as a formidable contender in the pickup truck segment. See all out pickup truck lease deals.
The engine's performance characteristics are tailored to deliver a satisfying driving experience. It offers a strong surge of power from below 2000rpm when the accelerator is pressed, providing excellent low-end torque for effortless acceleration and towing. This translates to a 0-62mph (100 km/h) time of approximately 8.8 seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size and weight.
One of the key advantages of this engine is its effortless nature. The combination of high power output and substantial torque allows the Amarok Panamericana to handle various driving scenarios with ease, from highway cruising to off-road adventures. The engine's responsiveness is particularly noticeable at part throttle, offering quick acceleration for everyday driving situations.

10-Speed Automatic Transmission VW Amarok Pan America

To harness the power of the V6 TDI engine effectively, the Amarok Panamericana comes equipped with a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox, engineered by Ford, has been carefully tuned to complement the engine's performance characteristics.
The 10-speed automatic transmission offers several benefits:

1. Smooth Gear Changes: The transmission delivers almost seamless shifts, enhancing overall driving comfort.
2. Optimal Power Delivery: With ten gears to choose from, the transmission can keep the engine in its optimal power band more often, improving both performance and efficiency.
3. Improved Fuel Economy: The wide spread of gear ratios allows for better fuel efficiency, especially during highway cruising.

While the transmission generally performs well, it's worth noting that during full-throttle acceleration, there might be a slight hesitation as the gearbox needs to downshift several ratios to place the engine in its power band. However, once at the desired speed, the transmission operates smoothly and efficiently.

Full-Time 4WD System VW Amarok Pan America

To ensure optimal traction and handling in various driving conditions, the Amarok Panamericana features a full-time four-wheel drive system. This advanced drivetrain technology sets it apart from some competitors and enhances its versatility as an adventure-ready pickup.
Key features of the full-time 4WD system include:

1. Constant Traction: Unlike part-time 4WD systems, the Amarok Panamericana's system provides continuous power to all four wheels, enhancing stability and control.
2. On-Road Performance: The system allows for secure driving on sealed surfaces without the risk of differential binding, a common issue with part-time 4WD systems.
3. Off-Road Capability: When venturing off the beaten path, the full-time 4WD system, combined with selectable drive modes, automatically adjusts the truck's differentials and AWD system to suit the terrain.

This sophisticated 4WD system, coupled with the powerful V6 engine and smooth-shifting 10-speed transmission, enables the Amarok Panamericana to tackle a wide range of driving scenarios with confidence. Whether it's navigating city streets, cruising on highways, or exploring rugged off-road trails, the Amarok Panamericana's powertrain is designed to deliver a capable and enjoyable driving experience.

Off-Road Capabilities VW Amarok Pan America

The VW Amarok Panamericana has been engineered to excel in challenging terrains, offering a suite of features that enhance its off-road performance. This pickup truck stands out with its impressive capabilities, making it a reliable companion for adventure enthusiasts.

Improved Ground Clearance

The new Amarok Panamericana boasts significant improvements in its off-road geometry. One of the most notable enhancements is its increased fording depth. With an impressive 800mm wading capability, the Amarok Panamericana offers 300mm more than its predecessor. This substantial increase allows off-road enthusiasts to tackle deeper water crossings with confidence, expanding the range of terrains they can explore.

Advanced 4x4 Modes

At the heart of the Amarok Panamericana's off-road prowess lies its sophisticated 'Drive Mode Control' system. This advanced feature offers up to six distinct drive modes, each tailored to specific driving conditions:

1. Eco
2. Normal
3. Mud/ruts
4. Sand
5. Slippery
6. Load/trailer

When a driver selects a mode, the vehicle's systems are optimized accordingly. This includes adjustments to:

• Steering power and behavior
• Stability and slip control
• Drive train response
• Gearbox control system
• Selectable all-wheel drive settings

This level of customization ensures that the Amarok Panamericana is always prepared for the terrain ahead, whether it's navigating through muddy ruts or traversing sandy dunes.
The vehicle also incorporates intelligent systems to assist with incline starts and descents. When stationary on an incline, the Amarok can hold its position for 2-3 seconds after the brake is released, giving the driver time to prepare for a smooth start. For downhill maneuvers, the hill descent function maintains a consistent speed, operating actively up to 36 km/h and passively up to 68 km/h. The driver can control the speed using the Adaptive Cruise Control on the steering wheel, ensuring a safe and controlled descent on steep slopes.

All-Terrain Tires VW Amarok Pan America

To complement its advanced 4x4 system, the Amarok Panamericana comes equipped with robust all-terrain tires. These tires are specifically designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from rocky paths to muddy trails. The combination of these specialized tires with the vehicle's sophisticated drive modes significantly enhances traction and stability in off-road conditions.
For those looking to further customize their Amarok Panamericana for off-road adventures, there are additional options available. The W-TEC All Terrain rim, for instance, offers both style and substance. With a high load capacity of 1250 kg per rim, these wheels are particularly suitable for use with camper van bodies. The robust coating on these off-road rims provides excellent protection, making them suitable for winter use as well.
To enhance both the vehicle's appearance and functionality, owners can opt for black powder-coated running boards in a Shark design. These not only give the pickup an aggressive look but also provide additional protection and assist with easier entry, exit, and roof loading. These running boards are designed to be fitted to existing fixing points without the need for drilling, with mounting brackets pre-welded to the boards for easy installation.
The Amarok Panamericana also features a Trailer mode, which optimizes the gearbox operation for towing. By registering the trailer's size in the driver assistance systems, the vehicle adjusts its blind spot sensors and drive assistance to account for the additional length and width at the rear. This feature supports trailers up to 2.5 m wide and 10.1 m long, enhancing the vehicle's versatility for both work and leisure.

Premium Interior

The VW Amarok Panamericana's interior matches its rugged exterior with a high-quality, fully redesigned cabin. The pickup's interior ambiance is truly top-of-the-range, featuring premium materials, an ingenious operating concept, and superior connectivity.

Leather Upholstery VW Amarok Pan America

The Amarok Panamericana boasts luxurious Savona leather seats, elevating the interior to a new level of sophistication. The driver and front passenger seats are 10-way power-adjustable, allowing for optimal comfort during long journeys or off-road adventures. This premium seating arrangement ensures that occupants experience first-class comfort, whether navigating city streets or tackling challenging terrains.
Adding to the upscale feel, the Amarok Panamericana features a heated leather multifunction steering wheel. This thoughtful addition enhances driver comfort, especially in colder climates, and provides easy access to essential controls.
The increased vehicle length translates to more legroom in the second row of seats, ensuring that rear passengers also enjoy a comfortable ride. This spacious interior design makes the Amarok Panamericana an excellent choice for both work and leisure activities.

12-inch Infotainment System

At the heart of the Amarok Panamericana's interior is a state-of-the-art 12-inch infotainment system. This vertical touch color display runs Volkswagen's software and graphics, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface. The system includes navigation capabilities, ensuring drivers can easily find their way to any destination.
Complementing the infotainment system is a 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit, which replaces traditional analog gages with a customizable digital display. This high-resolution screen provides essential driving information at a glance, enhancing both safety and convenience.
The Amarok Panamericana also features wireless phone charging and connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C interfaces. These features ensure that occupants can keep their devices charged and connected throughout their journey.
For audiophiles, the pickup comes equipped with a premium Harman Kardon sound system. This high-end audio setup includes eight loudspeakers, inclusive of a subwoofer, delivering an impressive 640 watts of output. The result is a rich, quality sound that enhances the overall driving experience.

Driver Assistance Features VW Amarok Pan America

The Amarok Panamericana is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, combining intelligent infotainment with state-of-the-art safety systems.
One standout feature is the Area View 360° camera system. This technology provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier. The system is complemented by Park Assist, which includes Park Distance Control in the front and rear, as well as Rear Traffic Alert.
For enhanced safety on the road, the Amarok Panamericana includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Dynamic Road Sign Display. These features work together to maintain a safe following distance and keep the driver informed of current speed limits and road conditions.
Lane keeping is improved with the Lane Assist system, while the Side Assist feature aids in safe lane changes by monitoring blind spots. These systems can be customized to suit individual driving preferences through the main menu of the infotainment system.
The pickup also features IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlamps, which offer dynamic cornering light, adaptive front lighting, and dynamic light assist functions. This advanced lighting system can detect oncoming traffic and selectively deactivate specific light beams to prevent dazzling other drivers, enhancing safety and comfort during low-light driving conditions.
With its combination of premium materials, advanced technology, and comprehensive driver assistance features, the Amarok Panamericana's interior offers a refined and comfortable environment for both daily commutes and adventurous journeys.
VW Amarok Panamericana

Towing and Payload VW Amarok Pan America

The VW Amarok Panamericana stands out in its class with impressive towing and payload capabilities, making it a versatile choice for both work and leisure activities. Its robust design and advanced features ensure that it can handle heavy loads with ease and confidence.

Class-Leading Towing Capacity VW Amarok Pan America

The Amarok Panamericana boasts a substantial towing capacity that sets it apart from many competitors. With a standard towing capacity of 3100kg, it already offers significant pulling power. However, the vehicle's capabilities can be further enhanced to meet more demanding requirements. With certain modifications, the towing capacity can be increased to an impressive 3500kg, which is now available for all automatic transmissions.
For those requiring even more towing power, the Amarok offers an option to uprate the vehicle to a 6400kg Gross Train Weight (GTW). This upgrade involves the installation of a rear semi-air suspension kit and an application to the DVLA for a new chassis plate. This 6400kg conversion is available for all 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TDI Amarok models, including both manual and automatic transmissions.

Generous Payload Rating

The Amarok Panamericana's payload capacity is a crucial factor for potential buyers, especially those intending to use the vehicle for commercial purposes. Most Amarok models offer a payload capacity exceeding 1,000kg, which qualifies them for commercial vehicle taxation benefits. Specifically, the PanAmericana variant boasts a gross payload of 1,054kg, making it highly capable for various load-carrying tasks.
The vehicle's loading area features a longer 1,621mm load length, providing ample space for cargo. Between the wheel arches, there's sufficient room for a Euro pallet to be loaded crosswise, which can be securely lashed in place using sturdy eyelets. The cargo bed is equipped with lashing eyes, ensuring that loads can be safely secured during transport.
To enhance its practicality, the Amarok Panamericana offers a range of load bed accessories, including an electric roll top, hard tops, and load liners. These options allow owners to customize the cargo area to suit their specific needs, whether for professional use or adventure trips.

Trailer Assist Technology VW Amarok Pan America

The Amarok Panamericana comes equipped with several advanced towing assist systems that significantly improve the overall towing experience:

1. Trailer Mode: This feature optimizes the gearbox operation when towing heavy loads. It adjusts the gear shifting pattern, allowing the transmission to shift up at higher than usual engine speeds. This reduces shifting frequency and provides more consistent power delivery when towing.
2. Gearbox Optimization: In Trailer Mode, the vehicle enables engine braking for all forward gears, helping to slow the vehicle when traveling downhill with a trailer. This feature enhances control and safety during towing operations.
3. Automatic Adjustments: The Amarok allows drivers to register their trailer's size in the driver assistance systems. Once registered, the vehicle's blind spot sensors and drive assistance features are adjusted to account for the additional length and width at the rear. This system supports trailers up to 2.5m wide and 10.1m long.
4. Versatile 4WD Settings: All 4WD settings can be selected in Trailer Mode, including 4L at any speed, providing optimal traction in various towing conditions.

These advanced features, combined with the Amarok Panamericana's robust construction and powerful engine options, make it an excellent choice for those who require a vehicle capable of handling heavy towing tasks while maintaining comfort and control. See all our new VW Amarok for sale.

Conclusion VW Amarok Pan America

The VW Amarok Panamericana stands out as a top-tier adventure pickup, blending rugged capabilities with premium comfort. Its powerful V6 engine, advanced 4WD system, and impressive towing capacity make it a versatile choice for both work and leisure. The truck's off-road prowess, coupled with its luxurious interior and cutting-edge tech features, sets a new standard in the pickup segment.
To sum up, the Amarok Panamericana offers a unique package that caters to drivers seeking a vehicle that can handle tough terrains without sacrificing comfort or style. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality makes it a strong contender in the competitive pickup market. Whether you're planning an off-road adventure or need a capable work truck, the Amarok Panamericana is well-equipped to meet diverse driving needs.

FAQs VW Amarok Pan America

What is the typical waiting period for the VW Amarok PanAmericana?
Volkswagen Australia indicates that the Amarok PanAmericana, being one of the more premium models, has longer wait times compared to other models in the Amarok range, typically between six to nine months. Efforts are being made to increase production to meet demand.
How does the Amarok PanAmericana differ from the Amarok Aventura?
The Amarok PanAmericana is equipped with all-terrain tires, distinguishing it from the Aventura, which features more chrome detailing, Advanced Park Assist, body-colored sailplane, a heated steering wheel, softer Savona leather upholstery, and premium floor mats.
What are some common issues found in the VW Amarok?
Common issues in the first-generation VW Amarok include timing chain and tensioner problems in 2.0 TSI models before 2015, faulty water pumps, failures in the high-pressure fuel pump, issues with the positive crankcase ventilator, and vacuum leaks.
Is the VW Amarok Aventura considered a commercial vehicle?
Not all new Amarok models qualify as commercial vehicles. A key determinant is whether the model has a payload capacity of at least 1000kg. The PanAmericana version meets this criterion just barely, whereas the top-spec Aventura does not, disqualifying it from being classified as a commercial vehicle.