200kW Amarok coming
The current Amarok V6, using an EU5-compliant 3.0-litre turbo diesel, produces a maximum of 180kW on overboost (normally 165kW) and 550Nm. The upcoming V6 retains the same capacity, but claims to extract more power and torque, despite meeting more stringent EU6 regulations.
Listed figures are 190kW standard, 200kW on overboost and 580Nm – making the upcoming arrival not only the most powerful Amarok, but also the most powerful ute in its class. To be offered in ‘Ultimate’ specification, this Amarok V6 will carry a premium over the existing Ultimate grade, but VWCV are yet to release pricing. While limited to the Ultimate for now, the local distributors say they may offer the more powerful V6 in other Amarok grades in the future.
The upcoming 200kW/580Nm Amarok V6 is seen as VW’s response to the recently-released Mercedes-Benz X-Class, which will offer its own high-performance version later this year. “We have no intention of giving up the mantle of the most powerful ute in its class and are looking to offer the upgraded 200kW Amarok V6 later in the year,” said Volkswagen Group Australia Director of Commercial Vehicles Carlos Santos.
Australia is the biggest export market globally for the Amarok. With the more powerful V6, as well as other additions to the Amarok range that are also due here later this year, VWCV aims to keep it that way. “Amarok continues to be a huge success story for Volkswagen in Australia, winning fans in Birdsville and boardrooms alike.” Pricing and full specifications for the upcoming Amarok V6 will be announced prior to local release.