Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announced Australian pricing for the new Volkswagen Amarok W600, setting the dual‑cab ute at $91,990 before on‑road costs.
Price and market positioning
The W600 sits at the top of the Amarok range, edging out the Ford Ranger Raptor, which starts at $90,690. While the Ranger Raptor targets off‑road capability, the Amarok W600 is tuned for on‑road handling and driver engagement, according to the company’s release.
Walkinshaw Automotive Group, a long‑time partner, engineered the model with the expectation that most Australian ute owners spend the majority of their time on sealed roads, commuting, touring or towing.
It arrives in August.
Mechanical upgrades and performance
Key changes include custom KONI dampers with Frequency Selective Damping, a Walkinshaw‑specific suspension setup, a 22 mm rear anti‑roll bar, and 20‑inch flow‑formed alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyres. Steering calibration has also been revised to improve body control and cornering stability.
Power remains a 3.0‑litre turbo‑diesel V6 delivering 184 kW and 600 Nm, paired with a 10‑speed automatic and permanent 4MOTION all‑wheel drive. The towing capacity holds at 3,500 kg braked, and payload stays at 954 kg.
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Standard equipment lists IQ.LIGHT LED Matrix headlights, Savona leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, a 360‑degree camera, adaptive cruise control with Travel Assist, Trailer Assist and a suite of driver‑assistance technologies.
Exterior styling receives a fresh front fascia, integrated light bar, wider body elements, dual side‑exit exhausts, electrically deploying side steps and unique badging. Inside, embroidered headrests, sports pedals, illuminated puddle lights and bespoke floor mats set the W600 apart from other Amarok models.
Buyers may add metallic paint for $1,100 or a factory electric roller cover for $3,450.
For many owners, the upgrade means a more refined everyday experience. The softer ride and sharper steering should make long highway trips less tiring, while the retained towing figures keep the vehicle practical for work or recreation. Those who value a premium cabin will likely appreciate the leather and tech package, which feels more like a luxury SUV than a work truck.
Availability and outlook
The Amarok W600 is slated to arrive at Australian dealerships in August, positioned as a road‑focused alternative within the high‑performance ute segment. Its launch follows a broader trend toward vehicles that blend utility with comfort, reflecting shifting consumer preferences.
Walkinshaw’s focus on sealed‑road behavior, rather than pure off‑road prowess, suggests the company believes the market will reward a balanced approach. Whether the premium price point will attract enough buyers remains uncertain, but the model adds another option for those seeking a capable, well‑appointed workhorse.
