Sponsored by Volkswagen Commercial
The Volkswagen Amarok V6 Style is a premium, highly work-capable dual-cab that’s ideal for those who want SUV-like comfort without sacrificing ute utility, and since NZ only has very limited numbers available (only 80 units), the Style variant simply oozes exclusivity.
At first glance, the Amarok V6 Style wears a restrained, European look rather than the bombastic, badge-driven styling seen on some lesser-capable trucks. Chrome accents, 18‑inch alloys and IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights give it a modern but understated stance that suits the job site, weekend marina and everything in-between.
The inclusion of side steps and a sports bar balances practicality with presence, while the integrated bed liner is a reminder this is still very much a ute designed for heavy use.
Step inside and you can plainly see that Volkswagen is aiming for a passenger-focused environment that punches way above typical work-truck expectations, with heated leather seats, wireless phone charger, a refined cabin layout and thoughtful details that create a comfortable space for both long drives and site visits alike.
The double cab offers useful rear-seat practicality for a crew or family, and features like an Area View 360-degree camera make manoeuvring tight urban or trailer situations significantly easier.
Practical touches such as integrated trailer brake control, 800mm wading depth and a durable bed liner, reinforce the Amarok’s dual-life promise, it’s a serious workhorse by weekday, comfortable tourer by weekend.
To underline its extreme comfort, the passenger compartment is mounted on the ladder frame via a total of 6 screw points that incorporate rubber-metal combination bearings to further reduce vibration and oscillation between the ladder frame and the passenger compartment, helping to maximise Amarok’s excellent NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) performance.
In terms of technology, the Amarok Style’s digital setup leans into modern expectations with a 12‑inch touchscreen infotainment system paired to a fully configurable 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster, offering clear graphics and easy access to vehicle functions. The system supports smartphone mirroring, navigation and camera overlays, which enhances both daily usability and towing tasks, perfect for those who need confident long-distance performance, trailer carting confidence, or both.
At the beating heart of the Amarok Style is Volkswagen’s substantial 3.0‑litre turbo‑diesel V6 engine, producing 184kW and 600Nm, mated to a smooth 10‑speed automatic and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, giving the ute a robust 3.5‑tonne braked towing capacity. Those impressive figures translate into effortless mid-range torque for heavy towing and relaxed overtakes on open highways. In addition to this, the integrated trailer brake control, plus multiple selectable drive modes (mud, deep sand, snow) make it a pragmatic choice for the more adventurous or those who tow boats or caravans.
On the move the Amarok V6 Style projects calm competence rather than theatrical performance, simply put, it’s the “thinking person’s” ute, with refined torque delivery, confident traction and understated dynamics that favour comfort and control over showy flair.
The 10‑speed gearbox tends to keep the engine in its sweet spot, smoothing shifts and helping fuel efficiency under load, while VW’s 4MOTION AWD system and Terrain Drive modes provide reassurance to go further, even when the tarmac ends.
A standardised feature on the V6 range is the Selective 4Motion AWD system with 4A mode.
Unlike the old chunky transfer case that is found in some other utes in the market, this electro-mechanical type transfer case fitted to the V6 Amarok Style can constantly distribute the power between front & rear axles in real time (in 4A mode). The force distribution can automatically vary between 0:100 (2H, Front & Rear) and 50:50 (4H, Front & Rear) all thanks to an electronically controlled high-torque clutch located inside the housing that is used to sync the speed of the front & rear driveline. In short, you can leave it in 4A and let the Amarok do the work for you
Road manners are typically European, meaning a composed ride, predictable steering and a planted feel when towing. VW engineers applied a unique suspension & steering tune on the Amarok during the development phase in Australia to ensure on-road refinement and med-high speed stability on backroads. Some utes place excessive emphasis on off-road capability, often at the expense of on-road vehicle dynamics.
In contrast, while using traditional leaf springs in the rear, the Amarok’s unique suspension tune was engineered to deliver excellent primary ride quality while maintaining composure and driver confidence across a wide range of load conditions. The steering map was calibrated to offer a well-weighted and responsive feel to provide good feedback. All these features give extra appeal to anyone considering switching over from larger SUVs but unwilling to compromise capability.
On the subject of switching over, although Volkswagen obviously positions the Amarok V6 Style squarely at tradespeople, business owners and senior decision-makers, it’s also a strong contender for lifestyle buyers who need towing and touring capability, without losing cabin comfort. Essentially, this Amarok promises the best of both worlds, commercial utility by day, refined transport for family trips and outdoor adventures by weekend.
Despite its good looks, the Amarok V6 Style is not about flashy theatrics; it’s a premium, versatile dual-cab that underlines capability with comfort and understated Euro engineering. Its strong V6 torque, 3.5‑tonne towing limit, modern infotainment and high-end cabin touches make it an attractive choice for those looking to change from large SUVs or those wanting a single vehicle for both work and recreation.
With a limited run and a price positioned toward the upper end of the market, it’s a compelling, exclusive, proposition for Kiwis who demand both pragmatism and polish from their ute. Plus, for added peace of mind, the Amarok V6 Style comes with three years’ servicing and a five-year warranty in New Zealand, which helps reinforce its appeal as a long-term work and lifestyle vehicle.