Volkswagen has introduced a more affordable ‘Sportline’ version of its top-performing V6 diesel-powered Amarok one-tonne utility, bringing the entry price point down to $55,490 plus on-road costs – $4,500 below the Highline version and a hefty $12,500 under the Ultimate flagship.

The Sportline has fewer features but remains a highly specified 4×4 dual cab ute with no mechanical changes to the headline act: a 3L V6 turbo-diesel that produces 165kW of power from 2,500-4,500rpm and 550Nm of torque from 1,500-2,500rpm.

An overboost function also pushes up the engine’s output to 180kW/580Nm for short periods.

The V6 drives all four wheels on a permanent basis via an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the German brand’s workhorse ute to reach 100km/h from standstill in a claimed 7.9 seconds. Combined-cycle fuel economy is listed at 9L per 100km.

For those who prefer to do the shifting themselves, Volkswagen Group Australia is planning to launch a six-speed manual gearbox option for the Sportline V6 in 2018, most likely with a selectable 4WD system.

Four-wheel disc brakes are on board the Sportline, along with plenty of other handy bits of hardware including a mechanical diff lock, electronic stability and traction control, ABS brakes (with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist), an active rollover prevention system, hill-hold function, trailer sway stability control (when a towbar wiring kit is installed), front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and front and side airbag protection for the driver and front passenger.

Other notable features on the new variant include 18” alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, a 6.33” ‘Composition’ multimedia unit with app-connect and Apply CarPlay compatibility, tinted rear windows and four 12V USB sockets (including in the tray).