Sub-$50K Amarok V6 manual now on sale

Just as it promised last August, Volkswagen has introduced a manual version of its popular V6 Amarok dual-cab 4x4 ute priced under $50,000.

On sale now ahead of the official launch next month, the MY20 Volkswagen Amarok TDI500 Core 4MOTION dual-cab manual is priced at $49,590 plus on-road costs – $3000 less than the auto version.

And for a limited time until January 31, Volkswagen is offering its first Amarok V6 manual via its public website for just $48,990 drive-away, with an Enduro pack bringing a claimed $1200 worth of accessories including a black sports bar, bonnet protector and black body side decals (as pictured here).

That means Australia’s first manual V6 diesel pick-up is cheaper than popular dual-cab 4x4 manual utes like the entry-level Toyota HiLux SR ($47,515) and Ford Ranger XL ($48,390).

Developed specifically for Australia, where V6s account for more than 80 per cent of Amarok sales in some months, the six-cylinder manual comes with the same six-speed stick-shifter seen in cheaper 2.0-litre turbo-diesel models and packs a full one-tonne payload (1004kg).

Likewise, it delivers the same 165kW of power (and up to 180kW on overboost) as the ZF eight-speed automatic Core model, making it the most powerful manual in its class.

In addition, it brings a selectable 4x4 system and two-speed transfer case with high and low range, rather than the auto’s full-time single-range 4x4 set-up.

There are only catches: peak torque in the V6 manual Amarok drops to 500Nm from 550Nm (and 580Nm in the Highline Black and Ultimate, but still from 1250rpm) and towing capacity falls from 3500 to 3000kg.

Otherwise, the V6 Amarok Core manual gets the same equipment as the auto version, including a rear diff lock, Offroad ESP (stability control) and ABS (anti-skid brakes), Hill Descent Assist, 17-inch ‘Posadas’ alloy wheels, front foglights and daytime running lights.

Likewise, inside there’s ‘Austin’ cloth trim, a leather-clad multifunction steering wheel, heavy-duty floor covering and 6.4-inch touch-screen ‘Composition’ infotainment system with reversing camera and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

How much does the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok dual-cab cost?
2.0 TDI400 Core — $44,590
2.0 TDI420 Core (a) — $47,590
2.0 TDI420 Core Plus (a) — $51,590
3.0 TDI550 Core — $49,490
3.0 TDI550 Core (a) — $52,590
3.0 TDI550 Sportline (a) — $56,590
3.0 TDI550 Canyon (a) — $57,990
3.0 TDI550 Highline (a) — $61,090
3.0 TD1580 Highline Black (a) — $64,990
3.0 TD1580 Ultimate (a) — $72,790
* Prices exclude on-road costs