Facelifted 2016 Volkswagen Amarok gets new 3.0L V6 TDI

Volkswagen has shoehorned a 3.0-litre V6 TDI into the facelifted 2016 Amarok. Available in three states of tune, ranging from 120kW to 165kW, the new unit is significantly more powerful than the previous range-topping 132kW/420Nm biturbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI engine.

In its most powerful tune, the V6 churns out a respectable 550Nm of peak torque from just 1,500rpm.

The company’s engineers have also tweaked the workhorse’s 8-speed automatic transmission, with the highest gears now longer to reduce revs and fuel consumption. Volkswagen claims the 165kW variant will return 7.6L/100km in combined average, while CO₂ emission is rated at 199g/km.

Besides a new powerplant and tweaked gearbox, the 2016 Amarok also gains a new servotronic steering system as standard in Europe. The 165kW range-topper is now fitted with 17-inch front and 16-inch rear disc brakes to match the extra oomph.

Aesthetically, the facelifted model gets a new grille, front bumper, fresh 20-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, along with LED license plate light and LED illuminated side sills.

At the back, the cargo area has a maximum payload capacity of more than 1 tonne, while certain variants is able to tow up to 3.5 tonnes.

Inside, the interior is now even more car-like and benefit from a restyled dashboard with Volkswagen’s latest infotainment system. On the safety front, rear view camera is now standard, along with Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.

The facelifted 2016 Volkswagen Amarok will go on sale later this year.