Volkswagen Amarok Review (2025): The Volkswagen Amarok has returned for its second generation, and it’s not just a facelift – it’s a full-blown reinvention. Built in partnership with Ford and sharing much of its DNA with the best-selling Ford Ranger, the new Amarok is now larger, more refined, and more versatile than ever before. But Volkswagen insists this is still a true Amarok at heart – a premium pick-up truck designed for both lifestyle buyers and serious utility users.
With a stretched wheelbase, broader trim range, and multiple engine choices, the Amarok now feels far more like a multi-purpose family SUV alternative while retaining its rugged workhorse capabilities. The new model offers far greater rear-seat comfort for adults, a significant improvement for those looking to replace a family SUV without compromising on practicality. This alone makes it an interesting alternative to rivals like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
The question is, does the Amarok bring enough of Volkswagen’s refined personality and premium character to stand out in a crowded segment dominated by its mechanical twin, the Ranger? On paper, it seems to offer the right mix: style, strength, and sophistication. Let’s take a closer look at what the new Amarok has to offer.
Volkswagen Amarok Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Volkswagen Amarok (2nd Gen, 2025) |
| Platform | Shared with Ford Ranger |
| Body Style | Double-Cab Pick-Up (only) |
| Engines | 2.0L 4-cyl diesel (168hp, 202hp), 3.0L V6 diesel (237hp) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 10-speed automatic (depending on trim/engine) |
| Drive Options | Rear-wheel drive / 4Motion all-wheel drive |
| Trims Available | Life, Style, Panamericana, Aventura |
| Infotainment | 10.1in (Life), 12.0in screen (Style & above) |
| Wheels | 17in (Life), 18in (Style, Panamericana), 21in alloys (Aventura) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 3.5 tonnes |
| Payload | Approx. 1 tonne |
| Off-road Features | Locking differential, underbody protection, comfort suspension (Panamericana) |
| Premium Features | Harman Kardon sound, Savona leather, 360-degree cameras (higher trims) |
| Starting Price (UK) | ~£33,000 (est., Life trim) |
| Top Trim Price | ~£55,000+ (Aventura) |
Trim Levels and Features
- Life (Entry-level)
- 17-inch wheels
- LED headlights
- Reversing camera
- 10.1-inch infotainment screen
- Choice of 168hp or 202hp 2.0L diesel engines
- Style (Mid-tier)
- 18-inch wheels
- 12-inch central screen
- Chrome exterior touches
- 360-degree reversing camera
- Available with 202hp 2.0L or 237hp 3.0L V6 diesel
- Panamericana (Off-road biased)
- 18-inch Amadora alloys
- Locking differential, underbody protection
- Comfort suspension for rough terrain
- Brown leather interior details
- Harman Kardon premium audio
- Aventura (Range-topper)
- 21-inch diamond-cut alloys
- Savona leather interior
- Chrome-plated exterior elements
- Exclusively powered by the V6 diesel
Performance and Driving Experience
On the road, the Volkswagen Amarok feels more like a premium SUV than a traditional pick-up. The stretched wheelbase improves stability, while the 3.0L V6 diesel delivers plenty of torque for towing and overtaking. The 10-speed automatic gearbox – borrowed from Ford – is smooth and responsive, giving the Amarok a more refined drive compared to older pick-ups.
For off-road adventurers, trims like Panamericana come into their own, with enhanced suspension, a locking differential, and extra protection. Whether on rugged trails or long motorway journeys, the Amarok strikes a solid balance between utility and comfort.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Amarok and you’ll notice Volkswagen’s trademark attention to detail. The cabin design feels more premium than the Ranger’s, with better material choices, ergonomic controls, and a stronger emphasis on technology integration. Higher trims feature Savona leather, Harman Kardon audio systems, and 12-inch infotainment displays, making the Amarok feel genuinely upmarket.
Rear passenger space has also seen a big improvement thanks to the longer wheelbase, making the Amarok a viable option for families who want a tough pick-up that doubles as a comfortable long-distance cruiser.
Exterior Design
The Amarok’s exterior design is where Volkswagen has added its own distinctive flair. With a bold grille, sharp LED headlights, and muscular body lines, the Amarok projects both toughness and elegance. The Aventura trim, with its 21-inch alloys and chrome-plated elements, particularly stands out as one of the most premium-looking pick-ups on the market.
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Price and Availability
The Volkswagen Amarok starts at around £33,000 (Life trim), with prices climbing above £55,000 for the fully loaded Aventura. While it is more expensive than some rivals, it justifies the premium with a more refined cabin, cutting-edge tech, and strong engine choices. The Amarok is now available in the UK and across Europe, with global rollouts depending on local demand.
Rivals
The Amarok’s toughest competition comes from:
- Ford Ranger – Its mechanical twin and market leader.
- Toyota Hilux – Known for bulletproof reliability.
- Isuzu D-Max – Popular with commercial users.
- Mitsubishi L200 (Triton) – Affordable and capable.
The Amarok’s USP lies in its premium positioning, offering more luxury and style compared to its rivals.
Conclusion
The second-generation Volkswagen Amarok successfully blends rugged pick-up practicality with SUV-like comfort and technology. By leveraging its partnership with Ford, Volkswagen has built a truck that’s as capable as the Ranger but infused with VW’s premium design language and attention to detail.
For those who want more than just a workhorse, the Amarok offers luxury trims, plush interiors, and lifestyle appeal, making it a perfect fit for families who want versatility without sacrificing comfort.
While it doesn’t offer a plug-in hybrid option like the Ranger, the Amarok still shines with its powerful diesel engines, off-road credentials, and everyday usability. It’s a strong contender for anyone looking at pick-ups in 2025 and beyond.
Ultimately, the Amarok may not outsell the Ranger or Hilux overnight, but it has carved out a premium niche. For buyers who value style, comfort, and capability, the new Volkswagen Amarok is one of the most compelling choices on the market.
FAQs Volkswagen Amarok
1. Is the Volkswagen Amarok just a rebadged Ford Ranger?
Not exactly. While the Amarok shares its platform and underpinnings with the Ford Ranger due to a partnership, Volkswagen has given it a distinctive design, interior upgrades, and premium touches that make it feel like a VW product.
2. What engines are available in the Amarok?
The Amarok offers 2.0L four-cylinder diesels (168hp and 202hp) and a more powerful 3.0L V6 diesel (237hp). Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic.
3. How much can the Amarok tow?
The new Amarok has a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes and a payload of around 1 tonne, making it a very capable utility vehicle.
4. Is the Amarok comfortable for family use?
Yes. Thanks to its longer wheelbase, the Amarok offers much more rear passenger space, making it a viable alternative to large SUVs while still retaining pick-up practicality.
5. How much does the Volkswagen Amarok cost?
Prices start at around £33,000 for the base Life trim and rise to £55,000+ for the luxury Aventura model, depending on specifications and market.