Amarok pick-up arrives in UK

Volkswagen is showing its new Amarok pick-up to UK buyers for the first time this week, the newcomer on display at the 2011 Outdoors Show at London’s ExCel exhibition centre from 13-16 January.

The Amarok, a new four-door double-cab pick-up, arrives in the UK having just secured the first ever International Pick-up Award.

VW claims class-leading load dimensions for the Amarok with a load area of 2.52 square metres. The space measures up at 1,555 mm long and 1,620 mm wide, with width between wheelarches of 1,222 mm.

All versions will come with advanced technology and safety systems including EDL (Electronic Differential Lock), ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) with Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Control and off-road ABS designed to shorten stopping distances significantly on loose surfaces.

Displayed alongside the Amarok, and also making a UK debut ahead of launch later this year, will be a limited edition of the California created in collaboration with outdoor clothing specialists Berghaus.

The California Berghaus will be available with a 2.0-litre BiTDI 178bhp engine while standard equipment includes a bike rack, awning, Berghaus-branded carpet mats and waterproof seat covers, and exclusive 18-inch bi-colour ‘Dakar’ alloy wheels.

After the Outdoors Show the Amarok will take part in a series of static displays at Volkswagen Van Centres across the UK, before the first right-hand drive vehicles go on sale in the spring. UK prices and specifications for both models are yet to be announced.

Words by: Andrew Charman