Volkswagen is clearly a believer in the old adage, ‘There ain’t no replacement for displacement’, which is ever so slightly remarkable in today’s downsizing-obsessed world.
Why? Well, when it gave its first-generation Amarok pick-up a comprehensive update in 2017, it ditched the stalwart 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and replaced it with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel. But is bigger better if you’re considering a used Volkswagen Amarok (2017-2023) when you’re looking for a used car for towing a caravan?
What’s a used Volkswagen Amarok like inside?
Most pick-ups will be bought as combined leisure/working vehicles, so they have a great many bases to cover. But the Amarok gets off to a good start, because it has a decent amount of room for the two people in the important seats.
Better still, there’s space behind them for three fully grown adults to sit comfortably, without elbows rubbing or knees being forced up against the backs of the front seats.
Indeed, despite the presence of the central transmission tunnel, the middle passenger sitting in the rear still has plenty of foot space.
Behind everyone, there’s a huge load area; big enough to take a standard Euro pallet during the week, and a whole array of camping kit for trips away at the weekend, giving you plenty of space for taking your favourite luxury caravan accessories.
The term ‘working vehicle’ used to mean ‘like a hair shirt’, so basic and uncomfortable was such transport, but no more – every Amarok has Bluetooth, a DAB radio, touchscreen infotainment, dual-zone climate control and electric windows.
Moving up the range to Highline trim adds a reversing camera, heated front seats, leather upholstery and bi-xenon headlights, while top-spec Aventura cars have parking sensors at each end, auto lights and wipers, plus higher quality leather and a better infotainment set-up. Don’t forget your mirrors either – check out our guide to how to adjust towing mirrors to ensure you get yours just right before taking to the road.
How does a used Volkswagen Amarok drive?
The old 2.0 TDI powertrain did sometimes struggle in the Amarok when the load bay and cabin were full, but the 3.0 V6 TDI has no such problems. It develops 221bhp – and up to 242bhp in short ‘overboost’ moments (when the driver firmly presses the accelerator in either third or fourth gear).
Better still, the VW’s engine produces 406lb ft of torque, so pulling a heavy trailer presents no issues whatsoever, one of the hallmarks of the best pick-ups for towing a caravan. Indeed, the Amarok is genuinely nippy, even when hitched up, and is easily capable of keeping up with motorway traffic.
The optional automatic gearbox does make progress more relaxing, however.
It’s stable, too, at least at moderate speeds, although high-speed lane changes when towing can cause the tail to wag the dog slightly.
The standard four-wheel-drive system means traction is never an issue on slippery surfaces. Better still, the VW is good to drive and has a comfortable ride most of the time when you’re driving it solo.
It’s not perfect, though, as rougher roads can cause it to fidget and bounce more than rivals, and that 3.0 V6 diesel has a habit of being rather too keen to shout about what it’s up to.
Verdict
There’s no doubt, the Volkswagen Amarok makes a tremendous towing machine. That is largely because the 3.0 V6 engine is so much stronger than the old 2.0.
On the downside, it is a little vocal at times, and tends to cost more than rivals. But if you want a capable, spacious, classy truck that will work, rest and play with equal ease, the Amarok is a fine choice.
For caravanners who have a heavier tourer, take a look at our guide to the best tow car for a 2000kg caravan to see our favourite options.
What will a used Volkswagen Amarok tow?
- Kerbweight: 2251kg
- Towing limit: 3100kg
- Noseweight limit: 140kg
- 85% match: 1913kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 40
- Annual VED: £335
- Average economy: 36.2mpg
- Interim/full service: £192
Servicing price supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262
Trouble spots
It appears that VW’s reputation for quality is justified with the Amarok, because it has been recalled comparatively few times. A total of 6501 cars produced between August 2016 and November 2018 were recalled because the winch cable for the spare wheel could snap. Then 2036 examples were recalled because a power-steering hose could become damaged. Full recall details can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
Alternatives to consider
Used Ford Ranger (2011-2024)
The Ford Ranger is one of those very rare things – a pick-up truck that is genuinely good to drive. It steers well, it handles neatly, it even rides reasonably. The interior feels well put together and there’s loads of standard equipment. Finally, the Ranger is quite heavy, which is good news if you plan to tow with it. All the engine options will make light of towing even the heftiest trailer.
Used Mitsubishi L200 (2015-2023)
In 2015, when Mitsubishi launched the fifth-generation L200, it made much of the car’s “improved ride and handling”. These claims were not unfounded, because the L200 rides pretty comfortably and is unfazed by twisty roads. It’s also large and weighty, so has a maximum towing limit of 3500kg. It is roomy too, and has an average economy figure of 42.8mpg.
Used Toyota Hilux (2015-)
If experience is earned over time, then the Toyota Hilux is a wise old bird indeed. It has been around in one form or another since 1968. That experience has been put to good use, because the Hilux is a capable tow car that doesn’t get fazed by crosswinds. It’s also as reliable as gravity. It does, though, offer rather fewer frills than its rivals, so if you want luxury, look elsewhere.
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