The original Volkswagen Amarok is set to receive a significant facelift in South America next year, where it continues to be available for purchase instead of the new Ford-based model sold in Australia and Europe. While the updated model will not be making its way to Australia, these upgrades are highly anticipated for the redesigned ute.
The facelift will introduce a refreshed look as well as long-awaited safety upgrades, bringing important features such as a widescreen digital instrument cluster, modern infotainment software, advanced safety technology, and more airbags – all of which were absent on the original model. This move aims to keep the 2010 ute fresh for another ten years, considering it will turn 24 years old in 2034, making it one of the oldest new vehicles on sale worldwide.
As the automotive industry prepares to transition to the second-generation Amarok, the original model remains in production in Pacheco, Argentina for sale in Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Volkswagen executives in South America expressed that building the new Amarok in their factories wouldn’t be feasible, as it would threaten the future of their Argentine plant, given that it only produces the Amarok and Taos – a small SUV.
As a result, the decision was made to treat the original Amarok to a significant upgrade with new technology and safety features. The revamped ute will sport styling similarities to the Ford-based successor and other VW models while embracing Volkswagen’s latest logo design. Inside, the model is expected to feature a 10-inch widescreen digital instrument cluster, a larger infotainment touchscreen with updated software, and a redesigned steering wheel.
Additionally, more airbags and a suite of advanced safety tech are slated to be added, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and adaptive cruise control. However, it remains to be seen whether structural improvements will be made to match the advanced safety features and additional airbags. The engine range is not expected to change, with a choice of 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel and a 3.0-litre V6 with different drive configurations and transmission options.
The updated 2024 Volkswagen Amarok is scheduled to be unveiled early next year and will be available in South American showrooms mid-year. Despite its age, the current model is the second best-selling pickup in Argentina, competing for first place with the Toyota HiLux.
The redesigned ute is poised to appeal to the South American market with its refreshed appearance and modernized safety features. While the new model won’t be arriving in Australia, the anticipation for its unveiling and performance in South America is high. Stay tuned for more updates and information about the 2024 Volkswagen Amarok.
