By Andrea Hargraves 
After a short while, the Volkswagen pickup returned to Portugal, with the proposed Amarok range with a double cab, three equipment levels and three diesel engines. The new generation of this model uses the maximum technology that the brand currently offers, including the Digital Cockpit.
a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Presented in Portugal, the new generation Amarok Pick-up, which is being launched in the Double Cab version, in three equipment levels – Life, Style and Aventura – and three diesel engines, from 170 to 240 hp.
The entry-level Amarok is available only by special order, while the Panamericana will not be sold in our country. Later, a more sporty version of the R-Line will appear, but it is still under development.
According to Volkswagen Veículos Comerciais, the best-selling version in Portugal should be the model, proposed with a 2.0 TDI Biturbo engine with 205 hp or a 3.0 TDI V6 with 240 hp.
The new double cab Amarok is longer and longer than the previous model. In overall length it has grown by about ten centimeters to 5.35 meters and in wheelbase by 17.3 centimeters to 3.27 metres. The total height is between 1.75m and 1.88m.
The design enhances off-road capability
Aesthetically, the front section is dominated by the upper horizontal bar grille, along with the slim LED headlamps. Most equipped versions receive, as standard or optional, “IQ.Light” lighting technology.
Partially rounded wheel arches dominate the side profile. Mudguards atop light-alloy wheels – up to 21 inches – look tough and are complemented by strong plastic fenders.
The longer wheelbase allows for reduced body distances and improved off-road capabilities, thanks to an approach angle of 29°, a forward angle of 21° and a departure angle of 22°. The lateral tilt angle can reach 29 degrees. The higher ground clearance allows the assembly capacity to be increased from 500 mm to 800 mm.
Progressive off-road capabilities are ensured, as standard, by the 4Motion all-wheel drive system, whose programs – 2H, 4A, 4H and HL – are selected via a rotary controller at the base of the center console. Hill descent control and the locking rear differential are activated via buttons next to the six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic transmission.
To allow you to face different types of situations, Amarok offers six driving programs: Normal, Eco, Slippery, Mud/Train, Snow/Dense Sand and Clouds.
scanning power
The drive programs can be activated via the 10- or 12-inch vertical touchscreen located in the infotainment system’s center console. The instrument panel is also digital, 8 “or 12”.
With the aim of simplifying access to the controls, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has implemented a range of ergonomically positioned digital and button functions, as well as easy-to-use push/rotary switches.
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To provide safer driving in all conditions, Amarok now has more than 20 advanced assistance systems, in particular ACC +, Adaptive Cruise Control, (reading road signs through cameras includes in automatic cruise control) and Lighting IQ. LIGHT – Matrix LED headlights.
Payload up to 1.16 tons
GPS beloved The Amarok is also assured by the new ergonomically designed front seats, which are electrically adjustable in multiple positions in the higher specification.
The rear area also provides plenty of space and comfort for three adult passengers to enjoy the ride. Style seats have ArtVelours covers as standard, while Amarok PanAmericana and Aventura use high-quality leather.
The cargo box of the new Amarok is ready to receive a side-loaded europallet. The payload is fixed through anchor rings to the cargo platform, each weighing up to 500 kilograms.
In line with this higher payload, the maximum payload has been increased from 1 ton to 1.16 tons. The cargo box can also be protected by a cover that can be rolled up electrically. This lid can be opened and closed from the cargo box itself, from the passenger compartment or using the Amarok’s remote control.
In terms of prices, the Amarok is available from 36,209 euros in the Life version with a 170-horsepower 2.0 TDI engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Style model, with a 205-horsepower 2.0 TDI or 3.0 V6 TDI engine, starts at 41,338 euros, while the purchase price for the Aventura 3.0 TDI V6, 240-horsepower version starts at 55,868 euros.
