Coinciding with the start of production of all double cab Amaroks for the European and Russian markets at VW’s Hanover plant in Germany, the automaker has made a raft of changes for the 2013 model year version of its midsize pickup truck.
The updated Amarok gains an enhanced diesel powertrain along with new convenience features, an increased trailer load and an extended 12 warranty against corrosion perforation.
Under the hood, engine performance of the manual gearbox equipped 2.0-liter BiTurbo TDI diesel unit has been boosted from 161hp (163PS) to 177hp (180PS) bringing it to the same output level as the automatic transmission versions. VW claims that fuel economy and CO2 emissions remain unchanged.
Furthermore, after becoming available in the automatic version, VW’s BlueMotion Technology that includes start/stop, regenerative braking and tires with optimized rolling, is now offered with the 121hp (122PS) and 177hp (180PS) manual Amarok in conjunction with the rear-wheel drive system or the permanent four-wheel drive version.
Volkswagen says the BlueMotion Technology package helps save up 0.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, with the 121hp Amarok RWD rated at 6.8lt/100km (equal to 34.6mpg US or 41.5mpg UK) and 179 g/km of CO2.
For 2013, the maximum trailer weight for all four-wheel drive Amaroks with manual gearboxes is now 3 tonnes (6,614 lbs), while automatic models can tow up to 3.2 tonnes (7,055 lbs).
In addition, the redesigned tailgate can carry loads of up to 200kg (441 pounds) and can now be locked.
The German automaker has added several new features to the Amarok’s equipment range including, but not limited to, a standard ParkPilot system in the Trendline and Highline models, an optional Light and Sight package with a rain sensor, automatic headlight control, follow me home function and an automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror, plus a new cornering light system.
VW said that prices for the 2013 Amarok start at €19,835 (net) for a 121hp single cab or €22,610 (net) for the same model with a double cab.
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