The 2017 Volkswagen Amarok midsize pickup gets a facelift for the 2017 model year and new power in the form of the 3.0L V6 TDI turbo-diesel. In the front, you will find new fascia and lights. The rear gets new LED lights, but the interior gets a more thorough update. The interior is more inline with the new passenger cars from VW. Occupants should enjoy the touchscreen infotainment system that offers Car-Net and Net-Application systems.
The previous 2.0L TDI four-cylinder is gone. In its place is the 3.0L TDI V6 that can be had in two power levels: 204 PS and 224 PS. This translates to 201 hp and 220 hp. The more powerful version puts out 405 lb-ft of torque. There is a choice of two transmissions: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic. VW estimates the more powerful engine and the 8-speed to combine for 8.0 second 0-62 mph sprints. Selectable or permanent 4MOTION four-wheel drive systems are available as well.
Don’t expect the Amarok to come to the United States anytime soon, at least not with the TDI engines. The “Chicken tax” import regulations would have to change to make the Amarok viable. Perhaps, VW has other plans further into the future, but – for now – the company is focusing on SUVS. The 2018 VW Atlas and a redesigned Tiguan are next on the agenda.
While we don’t get the Amarok in the States, here are four (out of five) midsize pickup trucks that are available to us now. Check it out as we take them off-road to the top of the Rocky Mountains.
