Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Amarok

With decent handling, comfort levels and build quality, the VW Amarok is a cut above its rivals

Volkswagen Amarok best pick-up

We loved the Volkswagen Amarok when it made its debut in 2011, and we still do – which is why it’s won its second Best Pick-up prize this year.

• Volkswagen news and reviews

Why? Simple. It sets the standard in a class that’s now more competitive than ever. If you need a commercial vehicle for work, the Amarok’s combination of practicality and quality is compelling.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Its huge load bed will take a standard Euro pallet, and the cabin is free from the low-grade plastics and flimsy controls that blight many of its rivals.

Away from the building site, the Amarok also drives impressively. It has enough power to haul big loads, but maintains a smooth ride and 
keen responses. For buyers looking at a double-cab pick-up as an alternative to an SUV, civilised surroundings and the prestige appeal of a VW badge make it the default purchase.

While most of the competition promise an unforgiving ride, the Amarok offers an unusual degree of comfort for this type of vehicle. It’s never going to rival a proper SUV for handling or ride quality, but it does a good impression of a traditional 4x4.

It even looks the part, so whether you need a rugged family runabout, or a dependable and uncomplaining work tool, we think the VW Amarok is the best pick-up around.

Our choice: 2.0 BiTDI 4MOTION Highline BlueMotion Tech (£29,802). Buyers wanting a versatile pick-up with all the upmarket car trimmings should go for a Highline-spec Amarok.

Commended

Ford Ranger

Practical, rugged and affordable, the Ranger also runs rings around its rivals when it comes to driver enjoyment. Sadly, its ride is uncompromisingly firm compared with the class leader, so it has to settle for a Commended award.

SsangYong Korando Sport

Price is critical at this end of the market, because these vehicles are, more often than not, a purchase driven by necessity rather 
than desire. The Korando Sport has price 
on its side, but it’s also practical, loaded 
with kit and thoroughly decent to drive.

Best Compact Executive Car

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025
Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019
Opinion - Kia EV9 GT

Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019

From poor electric car sales to crashes in F1, Mike Rutherford thinks its been a crazy few weeks in the automotive world
Opinion
29 Jun 2025
New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025