2013 Volkswagen Amarok

Volkswagen has given its Amarok pick-up a series of updates for 2013, with a particular focus on the powertrains. At the same time, production of vehicles destined for European markets is being shifted from Argentina to Germany, a move that should help reduce factory order lead times.

The entry-level model continues to be the Startline, which comes powered by a 2.0 litre common-rail turbodiesel engine that develops 120 bhp (90 kW / 122 PS). Prices in the UK start from £18,795 (excluding VAT).

Volkswagen Amarok (2013) Front Side

Further up the range, the bi-turbo version of the same engine now produces 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS), which is around ten percent more than before.  However, with the increased output fuel consumption has suffered slightly, rising to 35.3 mpg (8.0 l/100km). Similarly, carbon dioxide emissions have gone up marginally from 209 to 211 g/km.

But there is a way to negate those adverse effects. For the first time, Volkswagen’s suite of BlueMotion Technology devices is being made available on the Amarok, albeit only on top-spec Highline variants.

The fuel-saving package includes a start-stop system, regenerative braking and low rolling resistance tyres. With the six-speed manual gearbox and permanent all-wheel drive, the result is a combined 37.2 mpg (7.6 l/100km) and a CO2 figure of 199 g/km.

Alternatively, for those who don’t like changing gear themselves, a new eight-speed automatic transmission is being offered. As well as increasing peak torque from 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) to 420 Nm (309 lb/ft), it also ups the towing limit to 3,200 kg (7,054 lbs).

There are a couple of downsides to specifying the auto, though. Firstly, efficiency returns to the same level as the non-BlueMotion, manual Amarok and, secondly, the price jumps to £25,105 (excluding VAT).

The 2013 Volkswagen Amarok is available at dealers now.

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Volkswagen Caddy Cross
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