IN recent months, the V6 variant of the Volkswagen Amarok has stamped its authority on the ute market, outselling its own 4-cylinder offering. But something has been missing that whole time. Something customers wanted. A manual transmission.
Well, it’s missing no more, with the arrival of a six-speed manual and low range transfer case. While the Amarok’s eight-speed ZF automatic has proved extremely versatile, for the off-road enthusiast, a manual variant of the V6 is still perceived as the Holy Grail.
The six-speed is paired with a non-permanently engaged four-wheel drive system (traditional 4WD), which differs from the permanent system fitted to the auto Amarok. It has a part-time transfer box which permits two gear stages (4×4 high and low).
The new gearbox and transfer case will stay mated to the 180kW (on over boost) 500Nm V6 diesel, and will become the most powerful manual equipped vehicle in its class. It will be a permanent edition to the model range.
The Amarok V6 manual is offered in the popular Core model variant, in keeping with the vehicle’s intended off-road focus, and will also be offered in a new Core Enduro variant, which includes a unique bar, bonnet protector and decals.
The off-road focused manual offering (in both its forms) will come standard with a mechanical rear differential lock, off-road programmes, off-road ABS, off-road ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and hill descent assist.
The buttons for activating and deactivating the drive ranges, the differential lock and the off-road drive programme are positioned on the centre console. The drive programme switch means there is no need for a second selector lever.
The standard inclusions list for the 2020 Volkswagen Amorok V6 Core and Core Enduro features composition media with App-Connect, park distance control with a rear view camera, daytime running lights and ‘Austin’ cloth seat coverings.
Front fog lamps, 17-inch POSADAS alloy wheels, heavy duty front and rear rubber floor coverings in cabin, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, and a climatic air-conditioning system (semi-automatic).
Pricing for the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok V6 Core and Core Enduro 4×4, with six-speed manual transmission, will start from $49,590 plus on-roads. It comes with a 3.0 tonne braked towing capacity. The Enduro pack is presently a no cost option.
