Is the VW Amarok sold in the US?
The Volkswagen Amarok is a popular midsize pickup truck known for its rugged design, powerful performance, and versatility. However, if you're in the United States and considering purchasing one, you might be wondering whether this vehicle is available in the U.S. market. Let's dive into the details to clarify this question.
The VW Amarok: A Global Favorite
The VW Amarok has been a strong contender in the global pickup truck market since its debut in 2010. It is particularly popular in regions like Europe, South America, and Australia, where its combination of utility and comfort has made it a favorite among truck enthusiasts. The Amarok is known for its robust build, advanced technology, and off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for both work and leisure.
Availability in the United States
Despite its global success, the VW Amarok is not officially sold in the United States. Volkswagen has chosen not to bring the Amarok to the U.S. market, primarily due to the highly competitive nature of the American pickup truck segment. Established players like Ford, Chevrolet, and RAM dominate this space, making it challenging for new entrants to gain a foothold. Additionally, the Amarok's design and specifications are tailored more toward international markets, which may not align perfectly with the preferences of U.S. truck buyers.
Why Isn't the Amarok Sold in the U.S.?
There are several reasons why Volkswagen has opted not to sell the Amarok in the United States:
- Market Competition: The U.S. pickup truck market is dominated by domestic brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and RAM, which have a loyal customer base and extensive dealer networks.
- Regulatory Challenges: Adapting the Amarok to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards would require significant investment, which may not be justified by the potential sales volume.
- Consumer Preferences: American truck buyers often prefer larger, full-size pickups, whereas the Amarok is a midsize truck designed for different market needs.
- Production and Logistics: Volkswagen would need to establish a production or import strategy for the Amarok in the U.S., adding to the complexity and cost.
Alternatives for U.S. Buyers
If you're in the U.S. and looking for a midsize pickup truck, there are several alternatives to consider. Popular options include:
- Ford Ranger: A reliable and capable midsize truck with a strong reputation.
- Chevrolet Colorado: Known for its versatility and range of engine options.
- Toyota Tacoma: A favorite among off-road enthusiasts for its durability and performance.
- Jeep Gladiator: Combines Jeep's off-road prowess with the utility of a pickup truck.
Conclusion
While the VW Amarok is not available in the United States, it remains a highly regarded vehicle in other parts of the world. For U.S. buyers, there are plenty of excellent midsize truck options to explore. If Volkswagen ever decides to bring the Amarok to the U.S. market, it will undoubtedly face stiff competition but could carve out a niche among fans of the brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Amarok have a Ford engine?
The trademark V6 engine, which might have the same 3-litre displacement as the old model, is also built by Ford. It is, in fact, a Lion V6, similar to the block fitted in Land Rover's Discovery . Take from that what you will. Despite the shared underpinnings, Volkswagen has tried to give the Amarok its own identity.
Where is the Amarok sold?
Following the launch in Argentina, the Amarok was a key support vehicle in the 2010 Dakar Rally, with 45 having been used. The Amarok is currently being produced in the Volkswagen Group plant in General Pacheco, Argentina; for South American, Mexican, Oceanian, South African, Russian, and European markets.
Is the VW Amarok coming to Canada?
Thus, we learned that there will be no pickup truck in our market, contrary to what the rumor suggested. This was confirmed by Pablo Di Si, the president of the brand in North America.
Why was the Amarok banned in the USA?
The agency had found that Volkswagen had intentionally programmed turbocharged direct injection (TDI) diesel engines to activate their emissions controls only during laboratory emissions testing, which caused the vehicles' NO x output to meet US standards during regulatory testing.
How much is Volkswagen Amarok in USA?
All Volkswagen Amarok pricing and specs
| Year | Price From* | Price To* |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $48,180 | $90,090 |
| 2023 | $46,310 | $84,370 |
| 2022 | $34,320 | $81,180 |
| 2021 | $30,250 | $78,100 |
Is VW bringing a truck to the USA?
There are no plans to give the VW brand its own truck to sell, still, for now. A pickup is not part of the VW core portfolio, Thomas Schäfer tells media in a roundtable discussion in conjunction with the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show. Schäfer is head of VW's volume brands which includes VW but not Scout.
Is the Ford Ranger the same as the VW Amarok?
THE new VW Amarok pickup truck was developed as a joint project between VW and Ford. However, both the Amarok and Ford Ranger share the same production line in the same factory in South Africa. Both share the same engines and chassis etc, with only mild design differences to the body skins.
Why was the Amarok discontinued?
VW's decision was largely influenced by the arrival of newer, more sophisticated models in the Amarok range that offer better performance and features. While the entry-level Amarok served the market well for years, VW is focusing on pushing more premium models that align with its broader brand strategy.
Can I buy a VW Amarok in the US?
Volkswagen indeed created the second-generation Amarok midsize pickup, which is based on the newest Ranger, built in South Africa, and sold in Europe, Asia, and Africa, but formulated no plans to export it to North America.
Is the VW Amarok sold in Mexico?
On September 12, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announced the arrival of the 2025 new generation Amarok to Mexico, a premium mid-size pick-up produced in South Africa. At 5,350 mm, the new Amarok is 96 mm longer than its predecessor.
