The 2025 Volkswagen Amarok has arrived, bringing a refreshed take on one of Australia’s favorite dual-cab 4×4 utes. With a bold redesign, enhanced technology, and new variants, the second-generation Amarok continues to carve out its place in the competitive mid-size pickup market. Built on the Ford Ranger’s T6.2 platform, the Amarok blends Volkswagen’s premium styling with rugged capability, making it a compelling choice for both work and adventure. This article dives into the pricing, specifications, new features, and variants of the 2025 Amarok, offering a comprehensive look at what this updated ute range has in store.
Overview of the 2025 Volkswagen Amarok
Since its debut in 2010, the Volkswagen Amarok has been a standout in the global pickup market, known for its blend of Germanic build quality, premium interiors, and off-road prowess. The second-generation model, launched in 2023, builds on this legacy with a partnership with Ford, sharing the Ranger’s platform while maintaining a distinct VW identity through unique styling and features. For 2025, Volkswagen has introduced new variants, including a cab-chassis option and the off-road-focused 10 Deserts Edition, alongside updated technology and safety features. With prices ranging from $55,490 to $82,990 before on-road costs, the Amarok remains a premium yet competitive option in the ute segment.
Pricing and Variants
The 2025 Volkswagen Amarok lineup offers 12 variants, including new cab-chassis options and the special-edition 10 Deserts Edition. Prices have seen increases of up to $3,000 compared to the 2024 model year, but drive-away offers have been adjusted to maintain value. Below is a detailed table of the variants, their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP), and drive-away prices where applicable:
|
Variant |
Engine |
Body Style |
MSRP (AUD) |
Drive-Away Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Core TDI405 |
2.0L Single-Turbo Diesel (125kW/405Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$55,490 | $55,990 |
|
Core TDI405 |
2.0L Single-Turbo Diesel (125kW/405Nm) |
Cab-Chassis |
$59,490 | – |
|
Life TDI500 |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (154kW/500Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$59,490 | $61,990 |
|
Life TDI500 |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (154kW/500Nm) |
Cab-Chassis |
$63,490 | – |
|
10 Deserts Edition |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (154kW/500Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$68,490 | $69,990 |
|
Style TDI500 |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (154kW/500Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$69,740 | $72,740 |
|
Style TDI500 |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (154kW/500Nm) |
Cab-Chassis |
$73,740 | – |
|
Style TDI600 |
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel (184kW/600Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$73,740 | $76,740 |
|
Style TDI600 |
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel (184kW/600Nm) |
Cab-Chassis |
$77,740 | – |
|
PanAmericana TDI600 |
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel (184kW/600Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$78,990 | $79,990 |
|
Aventura TSI452 |
2.3L Turbo-Petrol (222kW/452Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$79,990 | $79,990 |
|
Aventura TDI600 |
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel (184kW/600Nm) |
Pick-Up |
$82,990 | $82,990 |
Note: Prices exclude on-road costs unless specified as drive-away. Drive-away prices have increased by $2,000–$3,000 compared to MY24 run-out deals. The Aventura TSI452 petrol variant has been reduced by $3,000 to boost sales.
New Features for 2025
The 2025 Amarok introduces several enhancements, making it more capable, safer, and tech-focused. Key updates include:
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Cab-Chassis Variants: For the first time, the Amarok offers cab-chassis options across the Core, Life, and Style trims, catering to buyers needing customizable trays for work purposes.
-
10 Deserts Edition: Inspired by an Amarok that set a Guinness World Record for crossing Australia’s 10 deserts, this limited-edition variant (300 units, white exterior only) is based on the Life TDI500. It features a 40mm ARB suspension lift, increasing ground clearance to 275mm, composite underbody protection, ATR off-road tires on 17-inch satin black wheels, a black tonneau cover, and exclusive decals.
-
Enhanced Safety: All models now include a trailer brake controller, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Higher trims (Style, PanAmericana, Aventura) add a front-view camera, 360-degree parking view, and advanced adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition. The Amarok retains its 5-star ANCAP safety rating (tested 2022).
-
Trailer Assist: A new feature across the range, Trailer Assist simplifies connecting and reversing trailers, enhancing usability for towing tasks.
-
New Paint Option: Reed Green Metallic replaces Mid Blue Metallic, offering a fresh aesthetic choice for the Aventura.
These updates ensure the Amarok remains competitive against rivals like the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and Isuzu D-Max, with a focus on both practicality and premium appeal.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Amarok offers four engine options, all sourced from Ford, catering to a range of needs from efficiency to outright power:
-
2.0L Single-Turbo Diesel (TDI405): Produces 125kW and 405Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic. Exclusive to the Core, it’s ideal for budget-conscious buyers needing reliable performance.
-
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (TDI500): Delivers 154kW and 500Nm, mated to a 10-speed automatic. Found in Life, 10 Deserts Edition, and Style trims, it balances power and efficiency.
-
3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel (TDI600): Outputs 184kW and 600Nm, also with a 10-speed automatic. Available in Style, PanAmericana, and Aventura, it’s the choice for those prioritizing torque for towing or off-roading.
-
2.3L Turbo-Petrol (TSI452): Unique to the Amarok (not offered in the Ranger in Australia), it produces 222kW and 452Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic. Exclusive to the Aventura, it’s suited for buyers seeking petrol performance.
All variants feature a 4Motion four-wheel-drive system, with part-time 4×4 (2H, 4H, 4L modes) on four-cylinder models and selectable 4×4 (including 4A for on-road use) on V6 and petrol models. The Amarok boasts a 3,500kg braked towing capacity, up to 974kg payload, and an 800mm wading depth. Fuel consumption ranges from 7.2L/100km to 9.7L/100km, depending on the engine and variant.
Off-Road Capability
The Amarok’s off-road credentials are bolstered for 2025, particularly with the 10 Deserts Edition. Key features include:
-
Increased Ground Clearance: Up to 275mm on the 10 Deserts Edition, thanks to the 40mm lift kit. Standard models range from 220–275mm.
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Drive Modes: Up to six modes (Normal, ECO, Slippery, Mud, Sand, Towing) ensure versatility across terrains. A rear locking differential is standard, with full mechanical low-range gearing on all models.
-
Underbody Protection: The 10 Deserts Edition features UV-stabilized crosslink polymer underbody protection, lighter than steel but equally durable.
-
Approach and Departure Angles: Improved with shorter overhangs, offering 29-degree approach, 21-degree departure, and 21-degree ramp angles.
These enhancements make the Amarok a formidable off-roader, rivaling the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux while appealing to adventure-focused buyers.
Interior and Technology
The Amarok’s interior is a standout, blending SUV-like comfort with ute practicality. Key highlights include:
-
Premium Materials: Higher trims (Style, PanAmericana, Aventura) feature leather or faux-Alcantara upholstery, ambient lighting, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
-
Digital Displays: A 12-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are standard on Style and above, with Core and Life models featuring 10.1-inch and 8-inch screens, respectively.
-
Connectivity: USB-A, USB-C, and 12V outlets, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensure seamless device integration.
-
Comfort: Power-adjustable, heated seats in Style and above, with excellent ergonomics for long drives.
The spacious double-cab design accommodates five passengers, though second-row space is slightly less than a mid-size SUV, a common trait in utes.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2025 Amarok’s 5-star ANCAP safety rating (tested 2022) is supported by a comprehensive suite of features:
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Standard Safety: Nine airbags, trailer sway control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
-
Advanced Systems: Higher trims include 360-degree cameras, parking assist, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
-
Trailer Assist: Simplifies trailer maneuvering, a boon for frequent towers.
These features position the Amarok as one of the safest utes in its class.
Practicality and Payload
The Amarok’s load bed accommodates a Euro pallet crosswise, with a 350kg static roof load capacity and sturdy lashing rings for 400kg of pulling force. Payload ranges up to 974kg, with a 3,500kg braked towing capacity across all variants. A 230V power socket with a 400W inverter adds versatility for worksite or camping needs.
Warranty and Servicing
The Amarok comes with a 5-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty and a 12-month/15,000km service interval. The first five services cost $329, $329, $414, $329, and $400, totaling $1,801. A five-year Care Plan is available for $1,800.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Volkswagen Amarok builds on its reputation as a premium, capable ute with new variants, enhanced safety, and off-road-focused features like the 10 Deserts Edition. While it shares much with the Ford Ranger, its distinct styling, refined interior, and unique petrol engine option set it apart. With prices starting at $55,490 and topping out at $82,990, the Amarok offers a compelling blend of workhorse utility and SUV-like comfort, making it a strong contender in the dual-cab ute market. Whether you’re tackling tough terrains or long highway hauls, the 2025 Amarok is ready to deliver.
