At higher speeds, the Amarok feels almost as refined and mature to drive as a large SUV, with not much in the way of wind or road noise infiltrating the cabin. The standard suspension setup in the Amarok Life and Style gives the truck a noticeably harsher ride than those with Comfort system, which is fitted to PanAmericana and Aventura-spec models, as well as the mid-range Ranger Wildtrak. The Amarok Style we used for our group test against the VW, Ranger and Hilux also tended to fidget on its optional 20-inch alloy wheels.
In recent years, VW’s approach to interior quality and technology has been a frequent source of criticism for the brand. So, it’s pleasing to see that its attempt to give the Amarok’s cabin the feel of an upmarket SUV has, on the whole, been a success. There’s plenty of metal-effect trim, and a brown leather dashtop and fake wood trim on display in the Amarok Style we drove, which also gives it a different look from the chunky, more functional Ranger. Only a handful of cabin components are shared with the Ranger, such as the key, the ‘pinch’ door releases, light switches and drive selector.
We did find interior quality was patchy in places on our test truck though, particularly the upper glovebox and dash top vents. There are also no physical climate controls in the Amarok, like you get in the Ranger. You do get a bank of toggle switches that offer handy shortcuts, but full climate controls are still within the touchscreen, along with all the off-road drive modes.
The base Amarok Life is fitted with a 10-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen and eight-inch digital driver’s display, while the rest of the lineup features two 12-inch displays.
The Amarok we drove used the larger displays, and being a Ford-sourced unit, the Amarok’s central touchscreen is simple and easy to use. It runs VW’s own software and graphics, although wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard-fit on all Amaroks, in case you’re not a fan of the built-in infotainment or navigation. Meanwhile the 12-inch Digital Cockpit display is fully customisable and can show power distribution and off-road info.
There’s a decent amount of storage throughout the cabin thanks to the deep door bins, a twin glovebox and another cubby underneath the armrest, plus a rubberised tray is located ahead of the gear selector where you can place a smartphone to charge it up.
