Second generation Amarok ups the stakes
The first-generation VW Amarok – launched back in 2010 – has built a reputation based on comfort, handling and ability that has led to more 7700 of the vehicles being driven on New Zealand’s roads.
The VW Amarok has always had a following of ute buyers wanting something different from the norm.
But it was resisted by some who saw the 4-cylinder twin turbo engine, with 132 Kw and 420 Nm torque, as not man enough for serious work.
Now the doubters look set to be silenced by a new V6 TDI engine rated at 165kW and 550Nm and offering 1.0L more capacity with its 3.0L block.
The new Amarok will suit those looking to do serious work such a towing, by delivering high torque at low engine speeds: the 550Nm torque is reached at 1500rpm -- a full 130Nm more than the current 4-cylinder offering.
Other new features in the V6 include a Sensortronic steering system combined with 17 inch rear and 16 inch front brake discs to offer precise steering and assured stopping in all conditions.
Outwardly a revised front end is described as more athletic looking, and an all-new dashboard and new ergonomic seats give the vehicle a more sophisticated feel.
At launching, and for a limited time, the Amarok Adventura will have 20 inch alloy wheels, rear view camera and bi-xenon headlights. This is further enhanced by LED daytime running lights, LED illuminated licence plates and running boards along each flank.
Pricing and final specification for NZ will be announced in the coming months, and first examples are expected in dealer showrooms at the end of the year.
VW NZ says numbers will be limited and anticipation is already high. With this in mind existing customers will be preferred for the first arrivals by way of a thank-you from the manufacturer.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Two major red meat sector projects are getting up to a combined $1.7 million in funding from the New Zealand Meat Board (NZMB).
Angus Barr and Tara Dwyer of The Wandle, Lone Star Farms in Strath Taieri have been named the Regional Supreme Winners at the Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards in Dunedin.
OPINION: The distress that the politicians and bureaucrats are causing to the people of Wairoa and the wider Tairāwhiti is unforgivable.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.