All-new petrol ute hits showrooms

The all-new Volkswagen Amarok Aventura petrol ute has arrived at New Zealand dealerships and boasts a number of premium features and a top safety rating.

Its engine delivers 222kW and 452Nm of torque, which compares with the V6 diesel Aventura’s twin-turbo powertrain that produces maximum figures of 184kW and 600Nm.

The top-of-the-line petrol model includes new driver assistance technology such as advanced park assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, speed sign recognition and autonomous braking.

It also boasts 21-inch alloy wheels and a 10-speed automatic transmission, while on the inside is a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that can be controlled via an integrated voice control function.

Other premium features for the interior include a Harmon Kardon sound system, heated leather seats and a heated steering wheel.

The ute has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and is equipped with dual frontal, side chest-protecting and side head-protecting curtain airbags, as well as a driver and passenger knee airbag. 

A centre airbag that provides added protection to front-seat occupants in side-impact crashes is also a standard offering.

Kevin Richards, general manager Volkswagen Commercial vehicles, says: “With Amarok already being a Kiwi favourite, the all-new Aventura turbo petrol model is hot property and of course includes all the usual impressive Volkswagen DNA both inside and out. It’s the perfect city ute.”

Pricing starts from $93,000.