Volkswagen has officially announced the development of a new performance-oriented version of the Amarok pickup, created in collaboration with renowned local tuner Walkinshaw Performance. This exciting addition to Volkswagen’s Australian lineup is set to replace the outgoing Amarok W-Series and will focus on delivering GT-style performance. The new variant is expected to debut in early 2025, promising to redefine the Amarok’s capabilities.
This announcement follows the recent release of the Amarok 10 Deserts Edition in Australia. That model emphasized off-road prowess with features like lifted suspension, underbody protection, and aggressive all-terrain tires. However, the upcoming Walkinshaw-tuned Amarok is taking a different direction, aiming to establish itself as a GT truck rather than another rugged, trail-ready option.
Reports from Australian automotive outlet CarExpert suggest that the Walkinshaw Amarok will follow in the footsteps of the previous Amarok W580S, a performance-oriented variant that proved immensely popular. Unlike the off-road-centric W580X, the W580S was a refined, sporty truck, and its success has motivated Volkswagen to greenlight a successor. This new model is expected to appeal to a niche market that values on-road performance and dynamic styling over off-road toughness.
The midsize truck segment in Australia is already brimming with rugged competitors such as the Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota Hilux GR Sport, and Nissan Navara Warrior. By focusing on GT-style performance, Volkswagen aims to carve out a unique identity for its upcoming Walkinshaw Amarok. Like its predecessor, this model will likely feature distinctive alloy wheels, a reworked suspension system, sporty visual elements, and unique decals. Additionally, performance enhancements are anticipated to give the truck a more aggressive character.
Under the hood, the previous Amarok W-Series featured a Walkinshaw-tuned 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 680 Nm of torque. The new Amarok, however, comes standard with a Ford-sourced 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel producing 247 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque. Interestingly, Walkinshaw may explore an unconventional approach for the new model, potentially opting for a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, which produces 298 horsepower and 452 Nm of torque in its stock configuration, has shown significant potential for tuning.
Volkswagen is set to reveal all the details in early 2025, when the Walkinshaw Amarok is officially unveiled. Like previous W-Series models, this high-performance truck will likely be exclusive to the Australian market, offering local buyers a unique blend of style, power, and sophistication in a midsize pickup.