Volkswagen’s all new pick-up the Amarok, inuit for wolf

Volkswagen’s all new pick-up the Amarok, inuit for wolf, has been honoured with the International Pick-up Award 2011.

The accolade, awarded for the first time this year, was judged by the highly regarded panel, representing 23 countries, that elects the prestigious International Van of the Year awards.

During the judging process, the Amarok was praised by the jury for its ‘effortless off-road abilities’, while its capacity on-road was judged to be the best against all other competitors. The jury was also impressed by the Amarok’s interior, in particular, the layout and generous space for both front and rear passengers in the double-cab cabin.

The jury commented: ‘The new Volkswagen Amarok distinguishes itself by fantastic driving qualities, both on- and off-road. It sets new standards in the pick-up category in respect to load capacity, payload, interior room, comfort, ergonomics and fuel consumption.’

Battle-hardened by being involved in the 2010 Dakar Rally as the official support vehicle, the VW Amarok will finally arrive in the UK during 2011, and boasts the largest load dimensions in its class with a load area of 2.52 m² (1,555 mm long, 1,620 mm wide, with width between wheel arches of 1,222 mm), a maximum payload capacity of 1,057 kg and maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes.

Packed with advanced features the double-cab includes EDL (Electronic Differential Lock), ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) with Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Assist and off-road ABS designed to significantly shorten stopping distances on loose surfaces.

UK prices and specifications for the Amarok will be released nearer the launch, with a single cab option Amarok following soon after.

Author: Richard Lawton, October 13, 2010