It’s the Ranger Raptor competitor from Volkswagen Down Under.
The Amarok has been around for 10 years. It’s fair to say that it’s getting old. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Ford have teamed up to accelerate the development of a second generation truck. One is expected to arrive on the Ranger platform by 2022. The current model has plenty of potential, especially in Australia, where VW teamed up with Walkinshaw to create a beefier version.
The W580 special edition is named after an Australian aftermarket brand and the torque it produces – 580 Newton meters (428 pound-feet). The V6 turbodiesel engine generates the same 268 horsepower (200kilowatts), as the top-tier Amarok. However, the full horsepower is permanently available. The standard 3.0-liter Amarok produces 255 horsepower (190 kW), and an overboost function temporarily unlocks an additional 13 horsepower (10 kW).
The suspension tune is based on the Amarok flagship, which was sold down under. Walkinshaw adds a modified front axle that has been lifted 40 millimeters (1.6 in) to increase ground clearance. For the 20-inch alloys, there are new Pirelli Scorpion 50 R20 tires with wheel arch extensions.
Walkinshaw modified the front grille and installed a custom dual exhaust system that included side exits under the rear bumper. The list includes LED fog lights, bi-xenon headlights and body-colored molded sport bars. Each plaque is unique.
When VW Commercial Vehicles Australia discloses pricing details, the Amarok W580 will be available for purchase on December 1. The first 30 customers who adopt the Amarok W580 by Walkinshaw will be treated to an “exclusive Walkinshaw experience”, which includes all meals, lodging, flights and transfers.