Thursday, February 6

VW Amarok Gen I Face-lift Review: A Better Ride or Just a New Look?

Just when you thought the VW Amarok couldn’t get any better, the Gen I facelift rolled onto the scene back in 2016. If you’re wondering whether this refresh is worth your attention, you’re not alone. The updated version of Volkswagen’s popular pickup truck promises more than just cosmetic changes, with tweaks to both style and substance. Before you make up your mind about this refreshed model, let’s explore what’s changed and whether these updates actually improve your driving experience or simply give you a prettier truck to look at.

VW Amarok Gen I face-lift model in silver color

Exterior Modifications

To spot the differences in the face-lifted Amarok, you’ll notice a more refined and muscular appearance that sets it apart from its predecessor. The updates give your pickup a more premium look while maintaining the robust character you’ve come to expect from VW’s workhorse. You’ll find the most significant changes at the front, with subtle yet effective tweaks to the lighting and wheels.

Front Fascia Changes

Front design updates bring a bolder presence to your Amarok, featuring a redesigned bumper with sharper lines and a wider chrome-accented grille. You’ll appreciate how the new hood styling creates a more commanding look, while the revised air intakes not only look more aggressive but also improve cooling efficiency.

Lighting and Wheel Updates

Lighting improvements on your face-lifted Amarok include bi-xenon headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, giving you better visibility and a more modern appearance. You can choose from new wheel designs, ranging from 17 to 20 inches, adding a touch of personalization to your pickup’s stance.

A major upgrade in the lighting department means you’ll get better illumination for nighttime driving, with the new bi-xenon headlamps offering 20% more brightness than the previous model. Your wheel options now include fresh designs with different finishes, allowing you to customize your Amarok’s look while maintaining its capable off-road performance.

Power and Performance

Clearly, you’ll notice the enhanced power delivery in the face-lifted Amarok. Whether you’re cruising on highways or tackling rough terrain, the improved engine response gives you that extra confidence. The refined powertrain not only delivers better acceleration but also maintains VW’s reputation for reliability.

Engine Options

The lineup gives you much better diesel engine options with 3.0l V6 TDI engines. You can expect the 3.0L V6 to deliver up to 258 horsepower, perfect for heavy hauling.

Transmission Refinements

Behind the wheel, you’ll feel the smoother gear transitions of the updated 8-speed automatic transmission. Your daily drives become more enjoyable with reduced gear hunting and better power distribution, especially when towing or climbing steep grades.

Refinements to the transmission software give you better control in various driving conditions. You’ll appreciate the quicker downshifts when overtaking and the more intuitive gear selection during off-road adventures. The transmission’s improved thermal management also helps protect your investment by maintaining optimal operating temperatures under heavy loads.

Ride Quality

Some noticeable improvements in the facelifted Amarok’s ride quality will catch your attention from the moment you hit the road. You’ll appreciate how the vehicle manages to blend comfort with capability, making it equally suitable for both work duties and family adventures. The refined suspension setup helps smooth out those annoying road imperfections without compromising the truck’s robust character.

Suspension Updates

Any doubts about the Amarok’s comfort levels will vanish once you experience its updated suspension system. You’ll notice the retuned shock absorbers and modified leaf springs working together to deliver a more controlled ride. Whether you’re tackling city streets or rough terrain, the improvements help reduce body roll and minimize vibrations reaching the cabin.

Handling Characteristics

The Amarok’s handling might surprise you with its car-like feel, despite its size. You’ll find yourself navigating tight corners with confidence, thanks to the well-weighted steering and improved body control. The truck maintains its composure even when fully loaded, giving you a sense of security in various driving conditions.

Characteristics that set this pickup apart include your ability to maneuver through challenging situations with ease. You’ll appreciate the balanced weight distribution and responsive brake system, while the enhanced stability control keeps you firmly planted on the road. These improvements make the Amarok feel more like an SUV than a traditional pickup when you’re behind the wheel.

Interior Refinements

Unlike its predecessor, the face-lifted Amarok’s interior brings you a more refined experience with upgraded materials and improved build quality. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you step inside, with soft-touch surfaces replacing hard plastics and a more premium feel throughout the cabin.

Cabin Comfort

One of the most noticeable improvements you’ll find in the refreshed Amarok is the enhanced seating comfort. Your long drives become more enjoyable with the redesigned seats offering better support and cushioning. The cabin also features improved sound insulation, making your journey quieter and more pleasant.

Technology Updates

The updated infotainment system in your facelifted Amarok brings a more intuitive interface and improved connectivity options. You’ll appreciate the larger touchscreen display, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, making it easier to stay connected on the go.

Hence, when you’re looking at the tech upgrades, you’ll find that VW has focused on making your daily drives more convenient. The addition of features like voice control, enhanced navigation, and a premium sound system transforms your Amarok from a simple workhorse into a modern, connected vehicle that keeps you entertained and informed throughout your journey.

Practicality

Once again, you’ll find the Amarok’s practicality shines through in everyday use. From its well-thought-out cabin layout to clever storage solutions, this pickup knows how to make your life easier. You’ll appreciate the generous door pockets, multiple cup holders, and a spacious glove box that will have plenty of space for your personal items.

Load Capacity

Any way you look at it, the Amarok’s cargo capabilities impress. Your worksite gear or weekend adventure equipment fits easily in the 2.52m² load bed. With a payload capacity of up to 1,010kg and the ability to tow up to 3,000 – 3,500 kg based on the model, you’ve got all the muscle you need for both work and play. Please check your local and country laws for any limits on car’s full mass/load.

Daily Usability

For daily driving, you’ll find the Amarok surprisingly civilized. Your urban adventures become hassle-free thanks to the responsive steering and good visibility. The comfortable driving position and user-friendly controls make every journey pleasant, whether you’re popping to the shops or heading to work.

But there’s more to the Amarok’s daily appeal than just driving dynamics. You’ll love how easily you can park it despite its size, thanks to the standard parking sensors. The wide-opening doors make getting in and out a breeze, while the height-adjustable driver’s seat ensures you’ll find your perfect position behind the wheel.

Value Proposition

For your investment in the face-lifted VW Amarok Gen I, you’ll get a solid blend of utility and comfort. The updated model offers you enhanced features and refined styling that justify its position in the premium pickup segment. Your daily drives benefit from improved materials and tech upgrades, making it a compelling choice for both work and leisure.

Price Point Analysis

Around the $45,000 mark (in some European countries the cheapest model will cost around 50,000+ EUR), you’ll find the base model of the face-lifted Amarok, while higher-spec variants can push past $60,000. Your money buys you German engineering, robust build quality, and a comprehensive warranty package that helps protect your investment. The residual values tend to hold strong, making it a smart long-term choice for your wallet.

Market Competition

About your other options in this segment, the Amarok faces stiff competition from the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Navara. Your choice might be influenced by the Amarok’s superior ride comfort and premium interior finish, setting it apart from its more utilitarian rivals.

Consequently, when you compare the Amarok’s overall package to its competitors, you’ll notice its unique positioning. Your decision might be swayed by its blend of European refinement and practical capability, though you’ll pay a premium for these advantages. While some rivals offer better off-road credentials or lower entry prices, the Amarok gives you that distinctive VW polish.

Summing up

The VW Amarok’s facelift brings you more than just cosmetic changes. You’ll find the refined suspension delivers a smoother ride, making your daily commute and weekend adventures more comfortable. While the exterior updates might catch your eye first, it’s the enhanced interior quality and improved tech features that will truly impact your driving experience. If you’re weighing up whether to upgrade, you’ll appreciate that this refresh strikes a good balance between maintaining the Amarok’s rugged capability and adding modern refinements that make it a more practical choice for both work and leisure.

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