Autocar.co.uk has praised the Amarok in the first UK road test, posted online yesterday from the international launch in Argentina.

Tester Ed Keohane wrote "the Amarok combines excellent off-road abilities with solid, predictable car-like handling" and described the ride as "exceptionally good for a vehicle with a payload of 1150kg." In summary, he added: "Given VW's reputation for build quality and reliability it's safe to say that Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi should be concerned. "

Autocar.co.uk readers also praised the pickup on the site's forum. One wrote: "This VW should have been called the VW Runamok, cos that's what it's going to do amongst those lame Jap Crap 'lifestyle' pickups, lay waste to them."

The road test will be published in Autocar on 24 February.

What is it?
The Volkswagen Amarok is VW's first pick-up and a direct competitor for the ubuquitous Toyota Hilux. Built on a platform at the Pacheco factory in Buenos Aires, it's destined for sale across South America, Austalia and New Zealand, as well as Europe.

The Amarok gets a classy, aggressive interpretation of the VW grille, a six-speed gearbox, low-range transfer box, permanent four-wheel drive, locking centre and rear differentials, the latest direct-injection, twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel unit, tuned for 161bhp and 295lb ft, and traction/stability control.

What's it like?
The interior moves the class to the next level. Despite the low spec levels compared to VW's road cars, the build quality is exceptionally good, with tough but well-textured surfaces and an excellent driving position. Car drivers would notice the unusual height of the seats and driving position, but otherwise everything falls under the fingers in exactly the way that it would in, say, a Golf.

The test car, which was fitted to the top spec level, called Highline for the South American market, didn't have sat-nav, but it will be available on UK vehicles.

On the move, the Amarok combines excellent off-road abilities with solid, predictable car-like handling. The combination of a solid, leaf-spring rear axle, mechanical locks on the centre and rear diffs and traction control means that most extreme off-road situations require little more than pressing the accelerator and adjusting the wheel so that it goes in the correct direction.

Where VW's achievement is much more impressive is the on-road refinement. The Amarok does not ride over broken surfaces with the sophistication of the Freelander, but the ride is exceptionally good for a vehicle with a payload of 1150kg. The steering is well weighted, though devoid of much feel, but provides enough feedback on what's going on beneath the tyres to allow fluent, quick progress on the paved Patagonian highways and dirt tracks that made up the 170 mile test route.

Enthusiastic drivers will find that the stability control intervenes earlier than you'd expect in high-speed corners, but the Amarok is naturally stable with it switched off, exhibiting nothing more than a mild, controllable yaw in all but the most provocative manoeuvres.

The diesel engine, which at 2.0 litres is the smallest in its class, has plenty of torque across the rev range, with 295lb ft available from 1500rpm. Overtaking is not brisk and requires planning, but probably matches the performance of a 1.6-litre diesel family hatch.

The only noticeable problem of the downsized unit, compared with the larger unit in the 3.0-litre unit in a Hilux, is the slight lack of low-end torque as the turbo spins up. The lag is minimal – one turbo is tuned for low-end response and another for top-end power – but it can occasionally catch you out in low-grip situations.

The most positive consequence of the downsizing is, of course, the fuel consumption. VW quotes 36.2mpg, which equates to 206g/km of Co2.

Should I buy one?
If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the proof of a pick-up is in driving it for 100,000 miles over bumpy roads. That's obviously not possible within the confines of a one-day test, but given VW's reputation for build quality and reliability it's safe to say that Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi should be concerned.

The new Volkswagen Transporter range, with new styling, a range of quieter and more economical Euro5 common rail TDI engines and reduced running costs, sets new standards of quality and refinement in the LCV sector, and is now available to order ahead of its official launch at Volkswagen Van Centres in January 2010.

The Transporter, which celebrates 60 years of production next year, continues to offer a choice of panel vans and chassis cabs, plus shuttle and window van people movers with up to nine seats. The range is enhanced by a new kombi model with a folding and removable rear bench seat that can carry up to six people and a load in the rear. This configuration used to be available only as an option pack but due to its popularity has now become a model in its own right. This model achieves N1 classification and so is taxed as a commercial vehicle.

Four new 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail TDI engines offer greater power and torque levels than the outgoing engines, and service intervals are extended by up to 7,000 miles to a maximum of 25,000 miles, reducing servicing costs.

Joining the aesthetic and mechanical changes are several important safety features which are now standard on all models. A new seatbelt warning reminds the driver to belt up and the passenger airbag can now be deactivated if the driver needs to carry a child seat. A new daytime running lights function improves the vehicle’s visibility on the road, while a new emergency feature flashes the brake lights under heavy braking and activates the hazard warning lights if the vehicle stops.

Volkswagen’s latest generation ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), previously a £295 option, is also now standard offering greater stability in all driving conditions along with ARP (anti rollover protection), Ready Alert Brake and Rain Brake Support for faster braking, a trailer stabilisation function, and an all-new hill start assistant.

New optional safety features include a tyre monitoring system to alert the driver if there is a change in tyre pressure, plus ‘side assist’ which warns the driver if there are any vehicles in the blindspot. Additionally, to reduce the risk of accidents when turning or reversing, there is now an optional cornering light incorporated in the front fog light to illuminate the road in the direction in which the vehicle is turning, plus a reversing camera to display the area behind the van, with ‘virtual’ lines showing where it is going.

Among the new features standard on every Transporter is a gear change indicator on the new instrument panel to recommend the right gear for maximum economy. The radio/CD can be fitted with an aux-in adaptor, or upgraded to a system with an aux-in socket, or the latest colour, touchscreen satellite navigation system with 30 Gb hard drive to store mapping and music. Two other new options include the acclaimed seven-speed DSG transmission and the convenience of a multi-function leather steering wheel.

With modest price increases across the range of between three to five per cent, the new Transporter range now starts from £15,700 (excluding VAT).

• Amarok sets new standards in 1-tonne pick-up class
• Payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes
• Maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes
• 2.52 m² load area has largest dimensions in its class
• Load area 1,555 mm long,1,620 mm wide
• 1,222 mm between wheelarches to take Euro pallet
• Rear-wheel drive, and switchable or permanent all-wheel drive
• On sale in UK in September 2010
• Double cab available from launch. Single cab to follow in 2011

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released the first official images and more details of its new pick-up, the Amarok.

The Amarok, which will be available as a four-door double cab version from launch with a single cab model to follow in 2011, combines the robustness of a pick-up with innovative technology, high safety standards, excellent fuel economy and Volkswagen standards of comfort, quality and durability.

Production of the Amarok is about to start at the Volkswagen factory in Buenos Aires, Argentina ahead of its worldwide launch starting in its native South America in early 2010 and in Europe next summer, with first models expected to be in UK Volkswagen Van Centres in September 2010.

The Amarok has a generous payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes and maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes. Its 2.52 m² cargo area has the largest dimensions in its class at 1,555 mm long and 1,620 mm wide, plus a best in class width between the wheelarches of 1,222 mm, which means that for the first time on a mid-size pick-up, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space.

The official photos show the Amarok reflects the latest Volkswagen design DNA with frontal styling in line with the latest Transporter and Golf. It is 5.25 m long with a ladder frame chassis and will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive and switchable or permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

For maximum convenience, the switchable all-wheel drive is engaged by the push of a button, and also has low off-road gearing.

The full-time all-wheel drive version is a rarity in the pick-up sector, and uses a Torsen differential to distribute drive at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axles for excellent vehicle dynamics and high traction, and also ensures that the wheel with the best traction always gets the most power. A rear differential lock is available.

Designed to tackle the toughest off-road terrain, the Amarok is offered with an electronic differential lock (EDL) and Off-Road ABS to significantly shorten braking distances in off-road conditions or gravel roads. At speeds of under 20 mph it also activates Hill Descent Assist to control hill descents by using selective braking interventions. Furthermore, the ESP Plus system includes Hill Hold Assist, which prevents the vehicle from rolling back by holding it in place on inclines until the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

Under the bonnet there will be a choice of two 2.0-litre fuel-efficient, Euro5 compliant, common rail TDI engines producing 163 PS, with torque of 400 Nm at a low 1,500 rpm, or 122 PS with maximum torque of 340 Nm from 2,000 rpm.

Both engines have a six-speed manual transmission and will have impressive fuel economy with low emissions to make the Amarok the first all-wheel drive pick-up in this class offering CO2 emissions of less than 200 g/km. Like the new Transporter and Caravelle, the Amarok has a gearchange indicator to help drivers achieve the best fuel economy, which with an 80-litre fuel tank should offer a range of over 600 miles.

UK prices and specifications will be confirmed nearer the Amarok’s UK launch. The range is expected to comprise a standard model for customers who need a pick-up that is as robust and practical as possible, to offering all the latest luxury items expected for those using Amarok as a leisure vehicle. An extensive accessories programme will also be offered for the Amarok – from a styling bar and running boards, through a cargo cover and Multi-Connect load securing system to a selection of stylish alloy wheels.

The large and ergonomically designed interior is the largest in its class and in many ways resembles that of a Volkswagen passenger car. Easy entry, lots of headroom and ample legroom for passengers on the rear bench seat make the Amarok a fully-fledged five-seater. If only two people are travelling, interior storage space can be increased by folding the rear seat.

Key markets for the Amarok include South America, South Africa and Australia; in these countries, because of their versatility, pick-ups are some of the most sought after recreational and commercial vehicles. Thanks to its efficient drive technology and tremendous versatility, the Amarok is also expected to be a trendsetter in the contemporary pick-up class in Europe.

Full specification and pricing details for the new Volkswagen California campervan and the seven-seater Caravelle people carrier are now available ahead of their arrival in the UK in the New Year. Orders are being taken at Volkswagen Van Centres now for the first customer deliveries which are expected in February.

The new models are distinguished by new-look frontal styling in-line with the Polo and Golf, and are available with many of the latest luxuries seen in Volkswagen’s passenger cars, such as a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, an optical parking system (in conjunction with parking sensors) and the latest touchscreen navigation systems including a 30 Gb hard drive to store navigation and music.

Standard specifications have been enhanced for all models with added safety features and interior refinements such as improved front seats, new instruments, including a gear change indicator, and more intuitive controls, plus new radio/CD units. New options available include DAB digital radio reception, the latest touchscreen navigation, ‘rear assist’ reversing camera and a new range of alloy wheels. As before, the ‘sleep pack’ for the Caravelle includes curtains plus a bed extension and cover to make it suitable for camping.

Important new standard safety and convenience features include a passenger airbag deactivation switch, seatbelt reminder, daylight running function for the main headlights, front foglights with new cornering function for improved visibility while turning, emergency braking lights which flash under heavy braking, hill hold control and Volkswagen’s latest generation ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) with Rain Brake Support. New optional safety features are a tyre monitoring indicator to indicate when a tyre loses pressure, and ‘lane change assist’ to alert the driver to traffic in the vehicle’s blindspot.

Both models have four-cylinder, 2.0-litre common rail diesel engines available with a choice of 140 PS TDI or twin-turbo 180 PS BiTDI. Both engines deliver more power and torque than the five-cylinder engines they replace – 340 Nm and 400 Nm from 1,750 rpm and 1,500 rpm respectively – plus lower running costs thanks to longer service intervals and improved fuel consumption. They also benefit from a reduction in perceived noise levels by the equivalent of up to 50 per cent, plus lower emissions to Euro5 standards.

The new seven-speed DSG transmission is available with both engines in the Caravelle, and the higher output unit for the California. DSG will also be available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive later in 2010.

Prices for the new California SE range start from £39,950 (including VAT and ‘on the road’ costs). The new Caravelle is available in two trim levels, SE in short and long wheelbase models from £31,400 and £32,400 respectively (on the road), and the range-topping Executive (short wheelbase only) from £34,100 (on the road). The entry-level Startline model will be reintroduced at a later date.

It’s not too late to take advantage of some tempting Personal Contract Plan (PCP) finance offers available until the end of the year for the Volkswagen California campervan and two spacious people carriers from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – the Caddy Maxi Life and Caravelle. The extension to the Government’s scrappage scheme makes these offers even more attractive.

With seven seats and lots of luggage space the Caddy Maxi Life and Caravelle are versatile and spacious people carriers. The Caddy Maxi Life range starts from £16,920 (including VAT and on the road charges) but when taking advantage of the scrappage scheme allowance, the current Volkswagen Solutions PCP offer reduces from £189 a month (6.9 per cent APR) to only £159 a month (7.9 per cent APR)..

Alternatively, with the scrappage scheme contribution the current PCP offer for the larger Caravelle people carrier reduces from £299 a month (7.9 per cent APR) to £259 a month (7.7 per cent APR), and for the California campervan from £349 a month (5.9 per cent APR) to only £315 a month (7.5 per cent APR).

With the new generation Caravelle and California campervan due to be launched in January 2010, and with price rises due for both models to reflect increases in specification, raw material costs and inflationary pressure, the current PCP offers represent especially good value – while stocks last.

David George, Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles says: ‘Our people carriers are perfect for seating seven people, and who could resist escaping for weekends and holidays in a new Volkswagen campervan? All Volkswagens offer value for money, but thanks to the Government’s ongoing scrappage scheme, these vehicles can now be an even more affordable part of your lifestyle.’

The May Bank Holiday is nearly here and the British public are ready to experience the independence, fun and freedom of a motoring holiday, with one in five people saying they will hit the roads and take a driving holiday this year according to a survey by Volkswagen campervans.

The findings also showed that more than half of Brits are planning to stay in so-called ‘no-tels’ – anything other than a hotel or apartment – and are intending to take more spontaneous and adventurous holidays, staying in campervans, motorhomes, tents or caravans instead.

More than two thirds (68 per cent) of people say that adventure holidays make t

hem bond more with their family, and that a UK-based activity break would see families spending more quality time with their children.

Amanda Lamb, travel expert and TV presenter of ‘A Place In The Sun’, says: ‘In these unusual times people’s habits are changing. They want to pack up their loved ones and throw themselves into the thrill of road trips rather than being tied to a beach.’

The shift to more spontaneous holiday habits probably mirrors the mood of the nation, with the gloomy economy tempting people to escape to the freedom of t

he open road. Forty per cent of people say they will ‘set off on holiday and just see where they end up’ rather than planning anything in advance. A campervan was the most popular type of vehicle that people said would encourage them to take more breaks.

It’s not just the open road people look to for escape. Nine out of ten parents say that playing games together as a family on holiday is important, and will be indulging in the nation’s top three ‘car games’, which were revealed as ‘i-spy’, ‘number plate game’ and ‘yellow car’. People are predicted to play more than 100 million games of ‘i-spy’ while on the road this year.

A motoring holiday allows people, and particularly families, the chance to have some spontaneity and adventure in their lives, and provides a real break from the old routine. In March we saw around a 25 per cent increase in enquiries for brochures for our California campervan and Caravelle people carrier, so it seems the freedom and carefree spirit that made Volkswagen vans iconic in the 60s is back,’ said Simon Elliott, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Proving that Brits really are in it for the experience this year, the survey also revealed that just 20 per cent said the threat of rain could stop them having fun. However, one in five will be packing wellies and one in three an umbrella. As a nation, though, we remain optimistic: over 80 per cent of respondents claimed they were planning to take sunglasses on holiday.