What's the news?
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has officially launched its new Amarok V6 in Ireland, and what better place to do it than at the National Ploughing Championships? The new model has come in for some minor visual updates to the exterior including a new front grille and bi-Xenon headlights in the case of the Highline specification, along with LED daytime running lights. Standard models will come with 17-inch alloy wheels, while Highline cars gain 18-inch alloys, but buyers can specify up to 20-inch rims if desired.
The biggest news in the Amarok V6 is the introduction of a new 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine range with a choice of 204- or 224hp outputs. In its most powerful state of tune, the turbocharged V6 produces 550Nm of torque and can propel the Amarok V6 to 100km/h from rest in just 7.9 seconds. It also gives the German pick-up a towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.
Both engines will come with the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions. The manual will be available with rear-wheel drive or 4Motion four-wheel drive with rear-wheel drive and a selectable front axle, while the automatic will feature an all-wheel drive set-up and Torsen differential with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Speaking at the launch of the new Amarok V6, Alan Bateson, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland, said: "We were delighted to launch the new Amarok V6 at the 2016 National Ploughing Championships where we provided visitors with the opportunity to experience the new V6 on a one-acre off-road driving experience. The Amarok V6 has really evolved into a vehicle that isn't just about the undoubted practicality, but also about good looks, road presence and more engaging driving dynamics. And with the new powerful six-cylinder engine it produces a best in class torque of 550 Nm, which is 130 Nm higher than in the previous model. Irish motorists can avail of a 24-hour test drive at their local dealer from October."