VW Amarok 2023: A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Model

The VW Amarok 2023 has made a splash in the pickup truck market, offering a blend of rugged capability and refined comfort. This latest model from Volkswagen brings significant upgrades to the table, catching the eye of both off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. With its striking design and advanced features, the new Amarok aims to shake up the competitive landscape of mid-size trucks. Source

In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the VW Amarok 2023 stand out. We’ll explore its exterior styling and interior amenities, delve into its performance specs and off-road prowess, and examine its practicality for daily use. Whether you’re in the market for a new truck or simply curious about the latest offerings, this in-depth analysis will give you a clear picture of what the Amarok brings to the table in 2023. See all VW Amarok for sale

Design and Exterior

The 2023 VW Amarok showcases a complete reimagining of Volkswagen’s popular pickup truck, with every millimeter redefined to create a more powerful and capable vehicle. The new design makes it instantly recognizable as an Amarok while introducing significant improvements in both form and function. See VW Amarok 2024

Bespoke VW styling VW Amarok 2023

The latest Amarok boasts clear, powerful contours that give it a confident and rugged appearance. Its slightly wider stance not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to improved off-road capability. Volkswagen has paid careful attention to individualizing the Amarok, offering different expressive front designs that allow for a high degree of customization. See VW Amarok 2025

The PanAmericana and Aventura models feature an exclusive front X-design, setting them apart from the rest of the range. This distinctive Volkswagen design language extends throughout the vehicle, creating a cohesive and modern look that aligns with the current Ford design esthetic, as the new Amarok shares its platform with the upcoming Ford Ranger T6.2. See VW Amarok Lease deals

Dimensions and proportions

The 2023 VW Amarok has grown in size compared to its predecessor, measuring 5,350mm in length – an increase of 96mm. This growth is most noticeable in the wheelbase, which has been extended by 173mm to 3,270mm. The increased wheelbase not only provides more space in the crew cab but also contributes to the vehicle’s improved driving characteristics both on and off-road. See New VW Amarok

Despite the overall increase in size, Volkswagen has optimized the Amarok’s body proportions. The front and rear overhangs have been reduced, resulting in an increased slope angle that enhances the truck’s off-road capabilities. This clever design also gives the Amarok a more balanced and athletic stance. See VW Amarok V6

The new Amarok’s width, measured from one door mirror to the other, exceeds its body width of 1,954mm. With a height of 1,834mm, the pickup presents an imposing figure on the road. See Modified VW Amarok

Lighting and wheels VW Amarok 2023

Lighting technology has been significantly upgraded in the 2023 Amarok. LED headlights are now standard across the entire range, providing improved visibility and a more streamlined appearance. The Style, PanAmericana, and Aventura models take this a step further with IQ.Light LED matrix headlights. These advanced lights feature individually activated LEDs that adjust the brightness and direction of the light cone based on driving conditions. They also include Dynamic Light Assist for advanced main beam control and dynamic headlight range control.

At the rear, LED tail light clusters come standard on the Amarok Style, PanAmericana, and Aventura models, completing the modern lighting package.

The Amarok offers a range of wheel options to suit different preferences and driving needs:

1. 17 x 7.5 inch COMBRA alloy wheels with 255/70R17 tires
2. 18 x 7.5 inch AMADORA SILVER alloy wheels with 255/65R18 tires
3. 18 x 7.5 inch AMADORA BLACK alloy wheels with 255/65R18 tires
4. 21 x 8.5 inch VARBERG alloy wheels with 275/45R21 tires

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These wheel options allow owners to customize their Amarok’s appearance and performance characteristics to suit their specific needs, whether for urban driving or off-road adventures.

The 2023 VW Amarok’s design and exterior enhancements not only improve its visual appeal but also contribute to its increased capabilities. With an 800mm fording depth – 300mm more than its predecessor – the new Amarok is ready to take on even more challenging off-road terrain, solidifying its position as a versatile and capable pickup truck in the competitive mid-size truck market.

Interior and Technology VW Amarok 2023

The VW Amarok 2023 boasts a premium interior that matches its impressive exterior design. This latest model offers a blend of comfort, technology, and practicality that sets it apart in the pickup truck segment.

Cabin layout and materials

The Amarok’s cabin has been fully redesigned to provide a top-of-the-range ambience. The increased vehicle length has resulted in more legroom for passengers in the second row of seats, enhancing overall comfort. Even the entry-level Life model comes with a decent level of attention to detail, featuring cloth seat coverings and a large central screen.

Higher trim levels, such as the Aventura and PanAmericana, offer an even more luxurious experience. These models feature extensive leather covering on the steering wheel, seats, dashboard top, and door panels. The use of high-quality materials throughout the cabin creates a premium feel that rivals many SUVs.

Volkswagen has been allowed to make the cabin its own, with brand-specific elements like the steering wheel and door panels. In higher trims, these components feature coverings that elevate the interior’s overall feel. The cabin also includes ergonomically designed control keys, push-buttons, and rotary controls for ease of use.

Infotainment system

At the heart of the Amarok’s technology offerings is its advanced infotainment system. The pickup features a vertical touch color display with a screen size of up to 12 inches. This system is powered by Ford’s latest Sync 4A operating system but has been ‘reskinned’ with Volkswagen’s icons and fonts for a familiar look and feel.

One of the standout features of the infotainment system is the inclusion of physical shortcut buttons below the screen. These buttons allow quick access to popular functions without the need to remove gloves, a particularly useful feature for off-road enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that adjusting the climate control still requires touch input.

The system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless integration of smartphone apps. It also includes USB-A and USB-C interfaces, as well as a mobile phone storage compartment with an inductive charging function in higher trims.

Driver assistance features VW Amarok 2023

The 2023 Amarok comes equipped with more than 30 assistance systems, over 20 of which are new to the model. These features are designed to enhance safety and improve the driving experience.

Key driver assistance features include:

1. Blind Spot Monitoring
2. Lane Keep Assist
3. Adaptive Cruise Control
4. 360-degree camera system

The Amarok also boasts a comprehensive airbag system, including a center airbag, knee airbag, and standard curtain airbag, providing extensive protection in the event of a collision. This safety package has earned the Amarok a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Other notable technology features include:

• Up to 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit
• Heated leather multifunction steering wheel
• Harman Kardon sound system with 8 loudspeakers
• Background lighting for ambient atmosphere

The Amarok is also equipped with an Online Connectivity Unit (OCU) featuring a built-in eSIM card. This allows the vehicle to connect to the internet or mobile networks, providing access to a range of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles mobile online services.

With its combination of premium materials, advanced infotainment, and comprehensive driver assistance features, the interior and technology of the VW Amarok 2023 offer a level of sophistication and functionality that’s sure to impress both everyday drivers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

Performance and Powertrain VW Amarok 2023

The VW Amarok 2023 offers a range of powertrain options to suit various driving needs, from everyday commuting to heavy-duty towing and off-road adventures. With a focus on both power and efficiency, the new Amarok aims to deliver a balanced driving experience across different terrains and conditions.

Engine options

The 2023 Amarok comes with three engine choices, catering to different performance requirements:

1. 2.0-liter diesel engine (170hp): This entry-level option is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
2. 2.0-liter diesel engine (205hp): A more potent version of the four-cylinder diesel, providing additional power for those who need it.
3. 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine (237hp): The flagship powerplant, delivering robust performance and towing capability.

The V6 diesel engine, despite being a Ford unit rather than a VW one, has become the preferred choice for many Amarok buyers. It suits the truck’s laid-back yet powerful approach, capable of accelerating from 0 to 62mph in less than 9.0 seconds. While it requires a hefty blast of the accelerator to reach top speeds swiftly, it delivers the goods when needed.

For those seeking a more economical option, the 205hp version of the 2.0-liter diesel presents a sensible choice. It offers marginally better fuel efficiency and comes at a lower cost while still maintaining the same towing and carrying capabilities as its larger counterpart. However, it does lack some of the effortless power that makes dealing with heavy loads, towing, and swift overtaking easier.

Transmission choices

The Amarok’s transmission lineup is geared towards automatic options, with most models equipped with a 10-speed automatic gearbox. This transmission suits the Amarok’s nature exceptionally well, providing smooth and laid-back operation in most driving situations.

The entry-level 170hp 2.0-liter diesel engine is the only one paired with a six-speed manual transmission. While this option hasn’t been extensively tested, the 10-speed automatic has proven to be a good match for the Amarok’s character, efficiently managing power delivery across various driving conditions.

Fuel efficiency VW Amarok 2023

Fuel economy across the Amarok range is relatively consistent, with only slight variations between the different engine options:

1. The most efficient model is the Amarok Life with the 170hp 2.0-liter diesel and manual gearbox, achieving a combined official figure of 33.6mpg.
2. The 2.0-liter 205hp diesel offers between 32.1mpg and 32.8mpg, depending on the chosen trim level.
3. The 3.0-liter V6 diesel manages 28.0mpg across all models.

It’s worth noting that while the V6 diesel is less fuel-efficient, its additional power and torque can be beneficial for those frequently carrying heavy loads or towing.

The Amarok also comes standard with a ‘Drive Mode Control’ system, featuring up to six drive modes: ‘Eco’, ‘Normal’, ‘Mud/ruts’, ‘Sand’, ‘Slippery’, and ‘Load/trailer’. These modes optimize various vehicle systems, including the powertrain, to suit different driving conditions and help manage fuel consumption.

In real-world testing, the V6 Amarok has shown an average fuel consumption of 10.1L/100km (approximately 28 mpg), aligning closely with the official figures. This consumption rate is reasonable considering the engine’s size and the vehicle’s weight and capabilities.

The 2023 VW Amarok’s performance and powertrain options offer a compelling mix of power, efficiency, and versatility. Whether tackling urban environments or venturing off-road, the Amarok’s engine lineup and transmission choices provide drivers with the tools to handle a wide range of driving scenarios.

Off-Road Capability VW Amarok 2023

The VW Amarok 2023 has been designed to tackle challenging terrains with confidence. Its off-road capabilities have been significantly enhanced compared to its predecessor, making it a formidable contender in the pickup truck segment.

4×4 system

The new Amarok comes standard with an all-wheel drive system, ensuring it’s ready for any challenge. Depending on the model, drivers can choose between part-time and selectable 4WD systems. The part-time system, available in Life and Style models, requires manual adjustment of 4WD settings. In contrast, the selectable system in PanAmericana and Aventura models automatically changes 4WD settings but also allows for manual adjustments as needed.

A standout feature is the low-range transfer box, which provides excellent off-road gearing. The 10-speed automatic transmission further enhances the Amarok’s off-road prowess by offering a wide range of gear ratios. This combination allows for precise control in various off-road situations.

For improved traction in challenging conditions, the Amarok is equipped with a rear differential lock. This feature engages quickly and smoothly, significantly enhancing the truck’s off-road capabilities, especially when traversing muddy or rocky terrain.

Ground clearance and angles

The 2023 Amarok boasts impressive improvements in its off-road geometry. The approach and departure angles have both increased, with the departure angle seeing a remarkable improvement of nearly 50% to 26°. The ramp angle has also seen a significant boost, increasing from 15.6° to 26°, thanks to a substantial increase in ground clearance.

The new Amarok stands at up to 1,884mm with a ground clearance of 237mm, providing ample clearance for obstacles. One of the most notable improvements is the increased wading depth, which has been enhanced from 500mm to an impressive 800mm. This 300mm increase allows the Amarok to ford deeper water crossings, expanding its off-road capabilities significantly.

Driving modes VW Amarok 2023

To optimize performance across various terrains and driving conditions, the Amarok features a ‘Drive Mode Control’ system. Depending on the configuration, up to six drive modes are available:

1. Eco: Optimized for fuel economy and extended range
2. Normal: Balanced mode for everyday driving
3. Mud/ruts: Designed for pure off-road driving on muddy, rugged, or uneven terrain
4. Sand: Optimized for driving on soft, dry sand
5. Slippery: Best for conditions with loose dirt or slippery surfaces
6. Load/trailer: Optimizes gearbox operation when towing heavy loads

Each mode adjusts various vehicle systems, including steering power and behavior, stability control, slip control, drive train response, gearbox control system, and selectable all-wheel drive settings. This comprehensive approach ensures the Amarok is always optimized for the current driving conditions.

In off-road modes like Mud/ruts and Sand, 4H (high-range four-wheel drive) is the default setting, and the rear locking differential is available at any speed. These modes also disable the option to select 2H (two-wheel drive) and 4A (automatic four-wheel drive), focusing on maximizing off-road performance.

While the Amarok demonstrates impressive off-road capabilities, it’s worth noting that some users have found the traction control system could be more finely tuned for off-road use. However, the rear differential lock compensates for this, providing excellent traction when engaged.

The Amarok’s wider track and longer wheelbase, while potentially challenging in tight spots, offer increased stability on off-camber sections of track. This design choice enhances the overall off-road experience, providing drivers with more confidence in challenging terrain.

Practicality and Utility

The VW Amarok 2023 stands out as a versatile and practical pickup truck, offering a range of features that enhance its utility for both work and leisure. This latest model builds upon its predecessor’s strengths, introducing improvements in cargo capacity, towing capabilities, and overall functionality. See VW Amarok Colours

Payload capacity VW Amarok 2023

The Amarok’s payload capacity varies across different trim levels and engine configurations. While not the highest in its class, it offers a respectable carrying capacity that meets the needs of most users. The double-cab configuration, which is the only option available, provides a payload of up to 1.1 tons. See VW Amarok Towing

It’s important to note that payload capacity differs among trim levels:

• Life trim: Ranges from 1,035kg to 1,113kg
• Style trim: Ranges from 1,018kg to 1,078kg
• PanAmericana trim: Ranges from 1,006kg to 1,054kg
• Aventura trim: 842kg to 877kg

Potential buyers should be aware that some models, particularly in the Aventura trim, fall below the 1,000kg mark. This could affect the vehicle’s classification as a commercial vehicle and may have tax implications.

Towing capabilities

The Amarok 2023 boasts impressive towing capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Most models can tow up to 3,500kg of braked trailer weight, which is the maximum legally permissible limit. This towing capacity is now available across all automatic transmission models, enhancing the Amarok’s versatility. See VW Amarok Predator

For unbraked trailers, the towing capacity stands at 750kg for almost all models. However, there’s one exception to note:

• The entry-level Life trim with the 170hp 2.0-liter diesel engine and six-speed manual transmission has a slightly reduced braked towing capacity of 3,420kg.

The Amarok also features a ‘Load/trailer’ driving mode, which optimizes the automatic transmission’s performance when carrying heavy loads or towing. This mode adjusts gear changes and enhances engine braking, providing better control and performance under demanding conditions. See VW Amarok Style

Cargo bed features

The 2023 Amarok’s cargo area has seen significant improvements over its predecessor, offering enhanced practicality for various uses:

1. Dimensions:
   • Maximum load length: 1,624mm
   • Maximum load height: 529mm
   • Maximum load width: 1,584mm
   • Width between wheel arches: 1,227mm
2. Euro pallet compatibility: The cargo bed can accommodate a Euro pallet loaded sideways or lengthways, thanks to the 1,227mm width between the wheel arches.
3. Lashing points: The cargo bed features six fixed load-lashing rings, with three on each side of the cargo box. These rings have a total tensile load capacity of 400kg, ensuring secure transportation of goods.
4. Lighting: LED lights are fitted in each of the cargo box’s side walls, standard on the PanAmericana and Aventura trims. This feature significantly improves visibility when loading or unloading in low-light conditions.
5. Accessories: The Amarok offers a range of load bed accessories, including electric roll tops, hard tops, and load liners, further enhancing its practicality.

The increased wheelbase of the new Amarok has contributed to a longer, taller, and deeper loading area compared to the previous generation. This improvement in cargo space enhances the vehicle’s overall utility, making it more suitable for both work and leisure activities.

In summary, the VW Amarok 2023 offers a well-rounded package in terms of practicality and utility. Its combination of decent payload capacity, strong towing capabilities, and thoughtfully designed cargo area features make it a versatile choice in the pickup truck segment. However, potential buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and the varying capacities across different trim levels to ensure they select the most suitable configuration for their requirements.

Conclusion

The VW Amarok 2023 has made a big splash in the pickup truck market. It brings together rugged capability and refined comfort, making it a top choice for both off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers. The new Amarok’s striking design, advanced features, and improved performance have a significant impact on the competitive landscape of mid-size trucks. From its bespoke VW styling to its enhanced off-road prowess, the Amarok stands out as a versatile and capable vehicle.

To wrap up, the 2023 Amarok offers a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of needs. Its blend of premium interior, advanced technology, and practical utility makes it a strong contender in its segment. Whether you’re looking to tackle tough terrains or simply need a reliable daily driver, the VW Amarok 2023 delivers on multiple fronts. This latest model from Volkswagen has set a new standard in the pickup truck market, promising an exciting driving experience for its owners.

FAQs

What issue has been identified with the 2023 Amarok model?
Volkswagen Australia has issued a recall for five units of the 2023 Volkswagen Amarok due to a potential failure in the dual-cab’s rear driveshaft. Although the Amarok shares some underpinnings with the Ford Ranger, it is manufactured in South Africa for Volkswagen, unlike the Ranger which is produced in Thailand.

What are some common problems found in the VW Amarok?
The first-generation Volkswagen Amarok has been known to encounter several issues, including problems with the timing chain and tensioner in models before 2015, failures of the water pump, issues with the high-pressure fuel pump, malfunctioning of the positive crankcase ventilator, and vacuum leaks.

How reliable is the new Amarok?
The reliability of the new Amarok can be considered moderate. While it hasn’t featured prominently in recent Driver Power customer satisfaction surveys, Volkswagen’s overall ranking was 17th out of 29 manufacturers last year, indicating average reliability.

Which engine option is recommended for the VW Amarok?
Although the entry-level engine has not been extensively reviewed, the other available engines perform well, offering smooth operation from low speeds. The 202bhp engine is particularly recommended as it provides sufficient power and towing capacity (up to 3,500kg), without the need for the more powerful 3.0-liter V6, which does not significantly enhance performance or towing capabilities.