Second generation Amarok ups the stakes
The first-generation VW Amarok – launched back in 2010 – has built a reputation based on comfort, handling and ability that has led to more 7700 of the vehicles being driven on New Zealand’s roads.
The Amarok 'Aventura' model will hit New Zealand at the end of the year and ought to make it onto the big 'must have' list.
In Herne Bay or in the South Island high country, this ute achieves 550Nm torque and 165kW at its highest power output level. It can reach a top speed of 193km/h and accelerate 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds!
The Amarok is an attractive alternative thanks to its high seat position, good all-round visibility and quality interior.
This facelift Amarok sports new electrically adjustable ergoComfort seats for the driver and front-seat passenger, giving plenty of head and legroom. The optional electric 14-way driver and front passenger seats can be individually adjusted to suit personal body size, offer nappa leather seat covers, contrasting stitching and additional seat heating.
A redesigned instrument panel has new architecture making displays more striking and pronounced, and multiple storage compartments making life easier for the passengers.
The multifunction steering wheel makes it easier for the driver to operate the radio, telephone or multifunction display.
The Aventura launch model comes with a colour 3D display between the classic round instruments. The driver can use the new, optional paddle switches on the steering wheel to control the 8-speed automatic transmission.
At the very top of the centre console, directly in the driver's field of vision, the infotainment system allows ergonomic operation and features App Connect and Electric Voice Amplification makes talking during the journey easier: the hands-free microphone amplifies the voice signals so that the driver, for instance, no longer needs to turn to face rear passengers or raise his voice. Passengers in the back seat hear via the rear loudspeakers.
Air-conditioning system, Bluetooth connection and up to four 12V power supply sockets are also included.
Pricing and specification for New Zealand will be released in the coming months and Volkswagen NZ expects to have this updated Amarok in showrooms from the end of the year.
Forestry Minister Todd McClay has today congratulated the winners of the 2026 Growing Native Forests Champions Awards at Fieldays.
The Government has announced $60,000 to provide one-off grants of $1,000 to each of the 60 New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) clubs across the country.
New Zealand’s rural sector has once again demonstrated its generosity, with the second Rural Industry Leaders Dinner, Debate and Auction raising an impressive $400,000 for the Rural Support Trust.
There has been another twist to the Federated Farmers annual election fiasco.
Analysis of decades of research has revealed the implementation of good farming practices plays a critical role in reducing nutrient losses to improve freshwater outcomes.
Yesterday the Government used the opening of Fieldays to announce a major investment, as part of its Land Use Flexibility package, to support a more productive and sustainable future across six sectors including dairy.

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