This is the wildest looking version of the new-generation Amarok, and it's taking aim at the hot-selling Ford Ranger Wildtrak.
Starting from $75,990 before on-road costs, the Amarok PanAmericana's greater off-road focus is immediately obvious by its more-rugged looks, blacked-out trim and all-terrain 18-inch wheel/tyre package. Further to that end, it also includes a monotube damper set-up for better ride control.
Plus, the PanAmericana builds on the Style's long list of standard kit like matrix LED headlights, keyless entry/start, an insulated windscreen, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, stitched leather-like dashboard cover, powered/heated front seats, a 12.0-inch touchscreen and a 360-degree area-view camera, by ushering in a unique front-bumper treatment, upgraded leather, premium audio, darkened cabin highlights and other luxuries.
Explore the 2023 Volkswagen Amarok range
Matching its tough looks is strong performance, thanks to a 184kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 diesel known as TDI600 in VW-speak. It's paired to a 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. There's also a permanent 4WD system dubbed 4MOTION with selectable low and high ranges – just like in the old Amarok.
The PanAmericana is heaving with safety features too, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), as well as nine airbags (including a front-centre item), adaptive cruise control with full stop/go, a blind-spot monitor, lane keep/departure, swerve-steer assist, traffic sign recognition and rear-cross traffic alert.
For looks and attitude, the Amarok PanAmericana has its crosshairs firmly on off-road rivals with quite varying degrees of off-road prowess, from the thematically similar Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain and Mazda BT-50 Thunder to the more-serious Ranger Wildtrak X and Nissan Navara PRO4X Warrior.
This should be another popular grade in the Amarok's armada.