Electrical Connection Spring 2016

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9 6 E L E C T R I C A L CO N N E C T I O N S P R I N G 2 0 16
TRANSPORT
with Terry Martin
Volkswagen will introduce a comprehensive update for
its Amarok utility towards the end of this year, headlined
by a new-generation V6 turbo-diesel engine that will be
unique in the segment.
Billed as the ‘premium pick-up’ in the one-tonne ute
class – at least until the likes of Mercedes-Benz and Renault
turn up with their respective all-new models – the updated
Amarok has emerged overseas with other significant changes
including improved steering and braking performance, front-
end styling revisions and an upgraded interior that more
closely aligns the workhorse with VW passenger cars.
The Amarok is currently sold with a 2.0l turbo-diesel in
three states of tune: 103kW/340Nm (TDI340), 132kW/400Nm
(TDI400) and 132kW/420Nm (TDI420).
The new oil-burner is a Euro 6-compliant 3.0l (2,967cc) V6
that delivers up to 165kW of power and 550Nm of torque – a
substantial increase on the current range-topping TDI420,
particularly in terms of pulling power. Maximum torque is also
produced at just 1,500rpm (250rpm earlier than the 420).
Australian specifications are still to be confirmed, but in
Europe the V6 TDI will be available in two other states of tune:
120kW and 150kW (torque figures still to be confirmed at time
of writing), paired with either a manual or automatic gearbox.
The latter is an eight-speed unit that in conjunction with the
165kW engine can return fuel economy of 7.6l per 100km on the
European combined test cycle. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is
completed in a claimed 7.9sec, on its way to a
top speed of 193km/h.
Three driveline options have been developed for the new
engine: rear-wheel drive, selectable four-wheel drive and
permanent 4WD with a Torsen differential.
Other mechanical highlights include a new Servotronic
steering system, 17” brake discs fitted to the front axle of the
165kW version (and 16” discs at the rear), together with an
automatic post-collision brake system also along for the ride.
Wheel sizes have also increased across the range.
Volkswagen describes the revised front-end styling as ‘more
athletic-looking’ and will launch the new model – in Europe, at
least – with a specially developed top-spec Aventura variant,
which has 20” alloy wheels, bi-Xenon headlights, a host of LED
lights (daytime runners, licence plate and side sills) and a new
body-coloured sports bar designed to visually shift the double
cab rearwards and extend over a small part of the 2.52m3
load platform.
The Amarok’s cabin has an all-new dashboard more akin
to those seen in VW passenger cars and, depending on the
variant, includes a new multifunction display, upgraded stereo
and navigation systems, improved connectivity and reversing
camera with ‘park pilot’ parking assistance technology.
A new multifunction steering wheel is also employed, along
with new ‘ergoComfort’ seats promising better support and a
broader range of adjustment.
> Volkswagon
VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK