Next-gen Volkswagen Amarok previewed; to be based on new Ford Ranger

The new Amarok is being developed alongside the recently revealed Ford Ranger, and will be built at Ford's factory in Silverton, South Africa. The two firms agreed upon a wide-ranging ‘global alliance’ in 2019 that will include producing commercial vehicles and electric cars. The next-generation Amarok will be the first model launched as a result of the initiative and is described by Volkswagen as “a major strategic step”.

 

Volkswagen has now revealed two further concept images of the new Amarok, hinting at both the exterior and interior designs. The firm promises that the machine will have a “completely new appearance” and also offer more extensive equipment options than its predecessor – including new driver assistance features and connectivity options. The new Amarok will be revealed early next year and launched in Europe at a later date, before going on sale in select markets.

 

The latest sketch of the new Amarok reveals that the vehicle is set to gain a bolder, more aggressive-looking grille similar to that seen on the latest Volkswagen Touareg, while the boxy wheel arches recall the American Atlas SUV.

 

The agreement between Ford and Volkswagen will also include a VW van, based on the Transit platform and built in Turkey, along with Ford's EVs on VW's MEB architecture entering production in 2023 in Germany.

Ford India had announced earlier this year that it will stop building cars here, and the brand will introduce fully imported units in the future. 

 

As for the Volkswagen, the German brand entered the competitive midsize SUV segment with the Taigun this year. It also introduced the updated Tiguan SUV and is also readying an all-new sedan to replace the Vento, which will see light of day next year.