The Volkswagen Amarok W580, a collaboration between Volkswagen Australia and legendary tuner Walkinshaw, is a GT utility ute designed to enhance on-road performance. Developed and tested extensively in Australia, the W580 is built on the Amarok TDI580 Highline, featuring new shock absorbers, a wider track, flared guards, alloy wheels, Pirelli Scorpion ATR tyres, a redesigned front end, and a front suspension lift.
The W580’s development process involved extensive testing in Australia and Germany, with 20,000 kilometres logged locally. The result is a truck that sits flatter through corners and feels more confident in changes of direction.
The sportier W580S model adds a sailplane rear, side exhaust outlets, Vienna leather upholstery, 14-way front adjustment, and seat warmers. Both models are powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 4×4 system with a torsen differential. The towing capacity remains at 3.5 tonnes, with a 500mm water-wading depth.
Volkswagen aimed to create the most dynamic dual-cab, one-tonne ute in the segment. The W580 retains the original front and rear springs but replaces the mono-tube dampers with a twin-tube setup. The wider track and new Pirelli Scorpion ATR tyres contribute to a more confident and sporty driving experience.
Despite its age, the Amarok’s diesel engine remains impressive, delivering 200 kW and 580 Nm of torque. However, the Amarok’s infotainment and dashboard presentation is showing its age, and safety features are limited. Rear legroom is also less than key rivals, but the Amarok can still accommodate a full-size pallet between its wheel arches. The W580 comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing.
Click Here to watch the Volkswagen Amarok W580 review on YouTube.