2023 Volskwagen Amarok detailed with new specs and in-camouflage photos

Volkswagen has released key details and in-camouflage photos for the 2023 Amarok pickup truck ahead of its launch this year. The Ford Ranger’s cousin gains the Blue Oval’s updated T6 platform, which most prominently features on the new Ranger, Ranger Raptor, and Everest.

In terms of dimensions, the new platform lengthens the Amarok by 96 mm to 5,350 mm, with the wheelbase gaining 125 mm to 3,220 mm on the double cab version. This model also gains 2 mm in height at 1,880 mm, but loses 34 mm in width at 1,910 mm. What are the practical implications of the size changes? Reports say the shortened front and rear overhangs make for a much better off-road ride with improved approach and departure angles. It’s likely a benefit of the new T6 platform, as we previously saw the same improvements with the Ford Ranger.

On top of that, Volkswagen has also increased the Amarok’s payload capacity to 1,200 kg and the towing capacity to 3,500 kg, the latter of which depends on the variant. Single cab and double cab versions will be available in some markets, and, at least in Europe, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations will be available.

VW is giving customers plenty of options with five Amarok variants, including Base, Life, Style, Panamericana, and Aventura. The more premium models will likely get high-end tech features, like matrix LED headlights (as seen on top trims of the Ranger and Everest), a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and over 30 advanced driver-assist functionalities.

The similarities with Ford continue with the inclusion of the SYNC 4 infotainment system. The touchscreen display could retain Ford’s portrait orientation, and 10.1-inch and 12-inch units will likely be available depending on the chosen model. The Amarok will also feature an eight-inch digital instrument panel, although we have not confirmed if this will come as standard.

Volkswagen has done a lot to show how distinct the Amarok is from the Ranger, even though the windshield, roof, side mirrors, door handles, and other elements have been carried over from Ford’s pickup truck. At least it gets a V6 TDI diesel engine, right?

As for production, Ford is looking to begin building the 2023 Amarok at its South African plant this year. Volkswagen is apparently not ready to abandon the first-gen model yet, as production for that vehicle will continue in Argentina. Could the all-new Amarok find its way to the Philippines? If Ford decides to bring production to Thailand, the source of our Ford utes, it wouldn’t be entirely out of the question. We’ll have to wait and see if that happens, however.