Volkswagen Amarok
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a pickup truck that combines German engineering with genuine workhorse capability? The Volkswagen Amarok might be exactly what you need. This premium pickup offers a compelling blend of car-like refinement, robust build quality, and serious towing capacity that sets it apart in the competitive pickup truck market. It’s the truck for people who want utility without sacrificing comfort or driving dynamics.

The latest generation Amarok has been completely reimagined, sharing its platform with the Ford Ranger while maintaining Volkswagen’s distinctive character. This collaboration has resulted in a pickup that feels more sophisticated than many rivals, offering a refined cabin, advanced technology, and impressive on-road manners. The interior quality is a significant step up from typical commercial vehicles, with materials and build quality that wouldn’t look out of place in a premium SUV.

Driving the Amarok reveals its dual personality perfectly. Around town, it’s surprisingly manageable despite its substantial size, with good visibility and relatively light controls. On the motorway, it cruises quietly and comfortably, while off-road it demonstrates genuine capability with its four-wheel-drive system and generous ground clearance. The trade-off for this premium approach is a higher price tag than some commercial-focused alternatives, but you’re paying for a level of refinement and sophistication that makes every journey more pleasant.

What's the Volkswagen Amarok Like to Drive?

The Volkswagen Amarok is powered by a range of efficient diesel engines that prioritise torque delivery over outright speed. The entry-level 2.0-litre TDI produces around 170 horsepower, providing adequate performance for most situations with plenty of low-down pull for towing. For those needing more capability, the 3.0-litre V6 TDI delivers up to 258 horsepower, making light work of heavy loads and offering impressive acceleration for such a large vehicle.

Where the Amarok truly excels is in its driving dynamics and ride quality. The suspension has been carefully tuned to provide a comfortable ride when unladen, while still maintaining composure when carrying heavy payloads. The steering is well-weighted and precise, giving you confidence when navigating tight spaces or country lanes. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, adapting well to different driving conditions. This makes the Amarok one of the most car-like pickup trucks to drive, feeling refined and composed in all situations.

Inside the Volkswagen Amarok: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Amarok and you’re greeted by an interior that sets new standards for pickup truck refinement. The dashboard design is modern and well-organised, featuring high-quality materials and solid build construction throughout. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen with smartphone integration, making it easy to stay connected during work or leisure trips. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated throughout the cabin, with numerous compartments for tools, documents, and personal items.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with excellent adjustment range to accommodate drivers of all sizes. Even on long journeys, fatigue is minimal thanks to good ergonomics and effective noise insulation. The crew cab configuration provides genuine space for rear passengers, making it a practical choice for families or work teams. Climate control is standard across the range, and higher trim levels add features like heated seats and leather upholstery that further enhance the premium feel.

The Volkswagen Amarok successfully bridges the gap between commercial capability and premium comfort. It offers one of the most refined pickup truck experiences available, with excellent build quality, advanced technology, and impressive towing ability. The interior rivals many SUVs for quality and comfort, while the driving experience is surprisingly car-like for such a substantial vehicle.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Volkswagen Amarok?

As a premium pickup truck, the Amarok’s running costs reflect its upmarket positioning, but efficiency is reasonable given its size and capability. The diesel engines deliver real-world fuel economy in the high 20s to mid-30s MPG range, which is competitive for the class. The V6 engine, while more powerful, doesn’t penalise fuel consumption as much as you might expect, making it a viable option for high-mileage users.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price, which is higher than more utilitarian alternatives. However, this premium is justified by superior build quality, advanced technology, and strong residual values. Servicing costs are in line with other Volkswagen models, and the comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind. For businesses, the Amarok offers attractive tax benefits as a commercial vehicle, while car finance options make it accessible to a wider range of buyers. Overall, while not the cheapest pickup to own, the Amarok offers good value when you factor in its capabilities and refinement.

Volkswagen Amarok Practicality & Boot Space

The Amarok’s practicality credentials are impressive, starting with a generous pickup bed that can accommodate standard pallets and building materials with ease. The tailgate is well-designed with a soft-close mechanism, while tie-down points and optional bed liner help protect your cargo. Load capacity is excellent, with payload figures exceeding one tonne across the range, making it suitable for serious commercial use as well as recreational activities.

Inside the crew cab, space is generous for five adults, with comfortable rear seats that fold to create additional storage if needed. The cabin offers numerous storage solutions, from door pockets and cup holders to a large centre console and overhead compartments. For families considering the switch from a traditional SUV, the Amarok provides comparable interior space while adding the versatility of an open pickup bed. Compared to other used Volkswagen cars, the Amarok stands out for its unique combination of passenger comfort and cargo capability.

The Volkswagen Amarok establishes itself as the thinking person’s pickup truck, combining genuine commercial capability with premium car standards of comfort and refinement. It successfully delivers on Volkswagen’s promise of superior build quality, advanced technology, and sophisticated driving dynamics in a package that works equally well for business and leisure use.

You choose the Amarok when you need the utility of a pickup but refuse to compromise on comfort or quality. Its impressive towing capacity, spacious cabin, and refined road manners make it equally at home on construction sites and family camping trips. While the premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers, those seeking best used cars under £5000 for different needs will find the Amarok represents excellent value in the premium pickup segment.