2023 Volkswagen AMAROK Design Specs and Features

Developed from the ground up, the new 2023 Amarok has practically nothing in common with its predecessor of which more than 830,000 units have been sold since 2010.

The new ute will be available upon launch in single cab and double cab body styles, with the latter stretching at 5,350 millimeters (210.6 inches). That makes it 96 mm (3.8 in) longer than the pickup it replaces and comes along with a 173-mm (6.8-in) extension of the wheelbase, now measuring a generous 3,270 mm (128.7 in).

Speaking of going off the beaten path, the 2023 Amarok's fording depth has been significantly boosted from 500 mm to 800 mm while all-wheel drive will be standard in many markets. Customers will get to pick from two 4Motion setups, one with selectable 4x4 and another with a permanent all-paw setup. Depending on the region, there will also be a cheaper entry-level variant with rear-wheel drive. Based on the engine choice, a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kilograms will be offered.

Four diesel engines and a gasoline mill have been prepared, all benefitting from turbocharging. In the African market, VW Commercial Vehicles will sell the new Amarok with a 2.0 TDI making 148 hp (110 kW) while other regions will get a more potent version of the oil-burner with 168 hp (125 kW). More expensive diesel-fueled Amaroks will rely on a bi-turbo four-pot setup with either 201 hp (150 kW) or 207 hp (154 kW).

The range-topping diesel engine will be a 3.0-liter V6 making 238 hp (177 kW) or 247 hp (184 kW). In regions where gasoline engines are preferred, the next-gen Amarok will boast a 2.3-liter unit producing 298 hp (222 kW). A ten-speed automatic transmission will be standard for all engines generating 207 hp (154 kW) or higher while the rest are going to be linked to a six-speed auto and a five- or six-speed manual.

Not only has the exterior been completely revamped, but so has the cabin where the vertical infotainment takes center stage. Running on a mildly modified version of Ford's SYNC 4, the touchscreen measures 10 or 12 inches depending on the trim level. It sits alongside a digital instrument cluster with an eight-inch diagonal on the cheaper models and 12 inches for the upper trims..