The Volkswagen Amarok has always been a capable contender in the fiercely competitive ute market. Now, with a comprehensive refresh for the 2024 model year, the question arises: can the new Amarok Style recapture the magic and carve a niche for itself amongst the established players? We recently got behind the wheel to find out.
First Impressions: Sharper Lines, Familiar Strength
One look at the new Volkswagen Amarok Style, and it’s evident that Volkswagen hasn’t strayed too far from the successful formula. The boxy silhouette remains, a testament to its utilitarian roots. However, sharper lines across the bonnet and a redesigned front grille with chrome accents inject a touch of modern sophistication. The LED matrix headlights on our Style trim added a touch of class and provided excellent nighttime visibility.
Climbing In: A Comfortable Oasis Awaits
The cabin is where the most significant upgrades come into play. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a far more premium feel compared to the previous generation. Volkswagen has ditched the utilitarian plastics for a tasteful blend of soft-touch materials and leather-effect upholstery (standard on the Style trim) on the dashboard and seats. The overall impression is one of comfort and refinement, a welcome change for those who spend long hours behind the wheel.
The 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the centre console and offers crisp graphics and an intuitive user interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, ensuring seamless integration with your smartphone. The physical buttons for climate control remain conveniently positioned below the touchscreen, a welcome respite from the all-touch interfaces plaguing some competitors.
Under the Hood: Powertrain Options and Performance
While the European market boasts a wider range of engine options, in the UK and Australia, the Amarok Style sticks to the tried-and-tested 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine. This workhorse churns out a respectable 154kW of power and a mighty 500Nm of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm. This translates to effortless grunt when pulling away from a standstill and ample pulling power for towing heavy loads.
The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and seamlessly, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. While not the most exhilarating offering, the Amarok prioritizes practicality and delivers a capable and fuel-efficient performance. We averaged around 9.0 litres/100km during our mixed driving test, which is a decent figure for a vehicle of this size and power.
Taking the Reins: On-Road and Off-Road Prowess
The Amarok Style offers a composed and comfortable ride on tarmac. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, even with a fully loaded bed. Steering feels precise and well-weighted, offering confidence during highway cruising.
However, the true test of a ute lies in its off-road capabilities. Thankfully, the Amarok Style doesn’t disappoint. Selectable drive modes allow you to tailor the vehicle’s performance to the terrain. Hill descent control and rear differential lock ensure you can tackle even the most challenging inclines and uneven surfaces with confidence.
Ground clearance remains a strong suit, allowing you to navigate rocky paths and clear obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. While hardcore off-road enthusiasts might crave a more potent engine option, the Amarok Style proves itself as a more-than-capable partner for weekend adventures and traversing challenging job sites.
Rivalry Renewed: How Does the Amarok Style Stack Up?
The UK and Australian ute markets are battlegrounds for established players like the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and Nissan Navara. So, how does the refreshed Amarok Style fare against its rivals?
Against the Ford Ranger: Both the Ranger and Amarok (the Ranger being based on the new Amarok platform) share the same engine and platform, resulting in similar performance figures and off-road capabilities. However, the Ranger offers a wider range of trim levels and a slightly more spacious interior. The Amarok Style counters with a more premium cabin feel and a potentially more comfortable ride.
Against the Toyota HiLux: The HiLux remains the undisputed sales king in the segment, known for its legendary reliability and robust build quality. While the Amarok matches the HiLux’s off-road prowess, the Toyota edges ahead in terms of fuel efficiency and a more extensive dealer network. The Amarok, however, boasts a more modern and comfortable interior.
Against the Nissan Navara: The Navara offers a compelling value proposition and a comfortable ride. However, its dated infotainment system and less powerful engine options put it at a disadvantage compared to the Amarok Style.
The Verdict: A Worthy Contender with Refined Charm
The new Volkswagen Amarok Style isn’t a revolutionary overhaul, but rather a well-executed
refinement of a proven formula. It retains the Amarok’s core strengths – off-road capability, powerful engine, and impressive towing capacity – while elevating the in-cabin experience with premium materials and a sophisticated infotainment system.
Who is the Amarok Style For?
This ute caters to a specific audience. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a comfortable and refined driving experience without compromising on off-road capability. Whether you’re a tradesperson who needs a reliable workhorse or an adventurous soul seeking a partner for weekend getaways, the Amarok Style offers a compelling package.
Areas for Improvement?
While the Amarok Style excels in many areas, there’s always room for improvement. The current engine offerings, while capable, might leave some power-hungry drivers wanting more. Additionally, the limited trim level options compared to some rivals restrict customization choices.
Final Thoughts: A Wolf in Wolf’s Clothing?
The new Volkswagen Amarok Style isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. It stays true to its utilitarian roots while offering a more refined and comfortable driving experience. While it might not dethrone the established sales leaders immediately, the Amarok Style presents a compelling alternative with its blend of capability, comfort, and undeniable Germanic charm.
So, is it a wolf in wolf’s clothing? Perhaps. It retains the strength and spirit of a true ute but adds a touch of sophistication that elevates the overall experience. Whether this wolf finds its place amongst the pack depends on your priorities. If you seek a capable and comfortable ute that prioritizes a premium feel, then the Volkswagen Amarok Style deserves a serious look.
