The article was originally produced on 14 July 2016, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

Volkswagen Amarok V6

Some things come perfect and others don't and the Volkswagen Amarok has always lacked something. Now this has been fixed and the model has finally got what everyone was waiting for – a strong 3 liter V6 engine and we have test driven the

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What is new? 

There is much that is new in addition to the long-awaited V6 engine of 224 horses and 550 Newton meters. A Euro 6-rated engine that was first introduced in the A6/A7 in 2014. The engine reaches full power already at 1,500 rpm and sends the Amarok from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. We also find a completely new interior with electrically operated seats in nappa leather. A new infotainment system with Apple CarPlay that also has voice amplification through the speakers. Servotronic for more comfortable steering. Shift paddles on the steering wheel, LED lighting for the step. Disc brakes at the rear as well as a "Serie Collision" brake system and a tire pressure system to name a few. On the whole, the model has become even more luxurious on all levels. Eventually, versions with weaker engines will also be introduced. 

How is it to drive? 

Since it is a completely new interior and new engine, the experience is also completely new when you jump into the cab and start the engine. Something that could certainly have been expected to have been done with a button and not with a key. But some things take longer to find their way into vans compared to passenger cars. But thanks to the interior and the engine, there's nothing reminiscent of the previous model once you're in it. New is a lovely V6 growl and lots of power and twist when you press the gas pedal. The Amarok already had very good road characteristics with a lot of comfort and little road noise. Now this feels even more tangible and overtaking is a breeze. The test drive, which is located on the outskirts of Munich, also offers the opportunity to drive on the Autobahn and when the free-speed signs appear, the Amaroken stretches up to 190 km/h without any problems and with so little noise that a normal conversational tone can be maintained. On an organized off-road track, the car also shows how easily it gets over most things. However, you must take into account that this is only done if you chose not to put a towbar on the car. If this is done, the angles are radically destroyed for how steeply the car can drive up and down slopes without the towbar engaging. Thanks to the new, stronger V6 engine, the car can now tow a load of up to 3,500 kilos with the right driver's license, which we can test. Of course it feels heavy, but no problem at all. You can also load the car with up to 1 tonne these days. 

North facts?

An amarok, or amaroq, is a giant gray wolf in Inuit mythology that stalks and kills any hunter foolish enough to hunt alone at night. Unlike ordinary wolves, which always hunt in packs, an amarok always hunts alone. Another fun detail is the fact that the Amarok and Touareg have the same engine, but in the Amarok it delivers 224 horses and in the Touareg 262. Despite that, both cars have the same torque.

Should I buy one?

If you are going to drive a transporter with a flatbed, comfort and really good off-road characteristics, this is absolutely one of the best options. Of course, you should test drive others as well, such as the Toyota Hilux. 

Plus:

Finally an engine that matches the car. Comfort and technology that make the Amaroken feel like a passenger car. Great traction.

Cons: No braking system to avoid collisions with pedestrians and other cars in addition to the Series collision system. No removable towbar for those who want to both drive off-road and be able to tow a trailer. 

For who? You who work with and in your car on a daily basis, drive long distances and want to feel the same type of comfort as in a regular passenger car and always feel safe getting to and from work regardless of what the road looks like.

The Pentagon. 

Amarok R4 vs Amarok V6

Torque: 7 vs 10

0-100: 3 vs 10

Infotainment system: 5 vs 10

Draw weight: 7 vs 10

Low gear: 0 vs 0