Volkswagen Amarok Pan Americana Double Cab Ute

• Published date: 08 November 2023
• Publication title: West Coast Farming Times, The

This model sharing arrangement between two of the heavy hitters of the car world 'X one from North America the other Europe 'X is an interesting alliance and precursor to other models its expected to spawn

Unlike the current all conquering third generation Ranger armed with a something for everyone, the Amarok is more of niche market dabbler operating of the back of a modest a four-model line-up, all doubles cabs and 4WD. Prices start at $65,000 for the Life and peak at $90,000 for the Aventura V6 turbo diesel.

Even the price leading $65,000 Life is an attractive package, powered albeit meekly, by a 2L 125kW turbo diesel that develops 405Nm of torque and is hitched to a 6-speed automatic.

There are high expectations in the Volkswagen camp around the $75,000 Style with a 2L 154kW 500Nm diesel engine plucked straight from the Ford Ranger parts bin. It's nicely appointed with 18" alloy wheels, LED Matrix headlights, 12" touchscreen infotainment, ambient lighting, and keyless entry and remote start. There's nice bonus for all Amarok owners in the form of a standard across-the-range tow bar.

The high spec $88,000 Amarok Pan Americana being reviewed here is has a stronger off road bias. If you need a large combative and capable ute in most terrain, this one fits the bill with its beefy 3L 184kW 600Nm V6 diesel. Features include exclusive black 18" alloy wheels shod with all-terrain tyres, heated leather seats, and a 12" touchscreen infotainment system. The driving assistance package off ers among other things, Park Assist and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise control.

The sophisticated, confident urban orientated Aventura that shares the turbo V6 diesel is an attention grabber with 20" alloy wheels, exterior chrome styling accents, and body-coloured sports bar.

The Pan Americana packs plenty of punch with a muscular 3.0-litre 184kW 3L V6 turbo diesel packing a mighty 600Nm of torque, but it isn't squeaky green enough to dodge the...