A Volkswagen executive in Australia says the Amarok V6 hasn’t “tapped out”, but admits we won’t see a more powerful version than the 190 kW model in the current generation.
Speaking to motoring.com.au, Volkswagen Australia’s commercial vehicles director Carlos Santos said the latest 190 kW/580 N.m version of the 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel was as powerful as the double-cab bakkie would go, aligning with earlier comments that the power war with the Mercedes-Benz X350d was over.
“I wouldn’t say it [the Amarok] is tapped out because there are limited editions we can do. But I think the core product offering is probably where it is at now,” Santos told the Australian publication.
“I don’t see us having a more powerful version; I don’t see us having a less powerful version. I think the 165 kW and 190 kW [versions] are where the powerbands will be,” he added.
The most potent 190 kW version of the six-cylinder, which makes 200 kW on overboost “for short periods”, is scheduled to arrive in South Africa at some point in 2019, according to VW SA.
While Santos wouldn’t be drawn on reports the next-generation Amarok would be based on the Ford Ranger’s platform – a rumour that followed June 2018’s announcement that the two firms planned to enter “a strategic alliance” – he did say “driveability and performance” would be key.
“They are the big two things; they are our biggest trump cards. We also want the latest tech moving forward and we have all that tech available in the group,” he added.
“We also want to maintain cabin space, maintain tray space. We also want to keep towing capacity. It’s keeping all those competitive advantages we currently have, as well as adding the tech that’s available to us.”
