The pickup truck’s midsize size is twinned to the Ford Ranger but has an all-VW design.
The Amarok is named after the Inuit wolf god of mythology. It has been in existence since 2010, and the switch to the second generation is only months away. The body-on frame truck will be moving from a VW platform and to Ford’s new T6 which underpins the 2022 Ranger. The midsize pickup will be back ahead of its release to share additional technical specifications, beyond the V6 TDI and Blue Oval underpinnings.
The 2023 Amarok will have a 96 millimeter (3.7 inch) increase in length to 5,350 mm (221 in), while the wheelbase will be extended by 125mm (5 in), to 3,220 (127 in), in double cab flavor. The body style will still be 2 mm (0.07in) taller at 1,880mm (74in), but it will be shorter by 34mm (1.3in) to 1,910mm (75in). It will have a shorter front and rear overhang for better approach and departure angles. This will make it more capable off the beaten path.
The payload capacity was increased to 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs), and the towing capacity is now 3,500 kg (7.716 lbs). Apart from the double-cab body style, VW will also sell the Amarok with a single cab option. European buyers can choose between a rear-wheel drive setup or two permanent four-wheel-drive systems.
Depending on the trim level, wheels will range in size from 17 to 21 inches. There will be five options: Aventura, Base, Style, Panamericana and Life. These two premium versions are described as premium, and the first will have an off-road feel while the second one will be more suited for on-road use.
Amarok’s more advanced versions will include 30 driver-assist functions and matrix LED headlights. Harman Kardon audio system is also available. The infotainment system will run on Ford’s SYNC4 technology. It will be available in 10.1-inch and 12-inch sizes and with an 8-inch digital driver’s display.
The structural hardpoints of the Amarok will be shared with the Ranger. However, the windscreen and greenhouse will be retained. VW claims that the truck’s design is going to be significantly different. The same applies for the cabin, where artificial leather will be used for Panamericana or Aventura models.
Ford will begin production of the 2023 Amarok at its Pretoria plant, South Africa later in the year. The first-gen pickup will not be discontinued, as South American assembly will continue at VW’s Pacheco factory in Argentina.