What should you focus on when looking at a German pickup truck? First of all, of course, on the fact that he is German. In fact, marketers Volkswagen Group did what competitors from Mercedes and BMW, for example, were afraid to do. Yes, now rumors about a pickup truck from Mercedes are taking on real shape, but four or five years ago, colleagues looked at the Vagovites with their pickup concept, to put it mildly, with misunderstanding.
Time passed, and voila: the Volkswagen Amarok pickup "took" its market, found its buyer and has already firmly established itself in the concern's lineup. Moreover, the car went through several updates and received several modifications, which indicates the demand on the world market and, of course, in Russia.
What do we know about the German pickup truck, which feels very good in the domestic market and has recently experienced another, high-quality, deep update?
1. Manufactured where it should be.
Production of VW Amarok is established in Germany at the plant in Hannover and in Argentina, at a plant near Buenos Aires. In the same place, in Argentina, the Amarok competitor is also produced - the L200 pickup truck from Mitsubishi. This is not surprising, because it was for the Latin American and African market that Amarok was originally intended. For our market, cars are supplied, of course, from Hannover. Here you are - real German quality In his best.
2. Frame construction is a must-have in the pickup class.
Yes, and it's worth paying attention to. The fact is that the culture of "frames" gradually dissolved in modern trends, both in design and body design technologies, even in the class of heavy SUVs.
Moreover, the ladder frame here fits so harmoniously into the design that it would be a crime to change such a decision. And mounting springs with different mounting heights for a better distribution of the center of gravity is generally an excellent solution in the paradigm of the Amaroka frame structure.
3. Salon Volkswagen Amarok.
The designers have done a great job here. We remember the previous generation of the pickup truck, which was distinguished by a certain stiffness, or something. Looked, frankly, budget. Very affordable for a car like this. Now in the cabin there is a completely “Vagovsky” spirit. In the best traditions of corporate design of the German brand. Quality, functionality, ergonomics, reliability. Plus — high-quality navigation and a lot of space on the back sofa. What else does a real pickup artist need?
4. Engine "Volchenko".
There were no complaints about the 2.0-liter BiTDI diesel unit. 180 forces in the asset with a maximum torque of 420 Nm. Pulls well, on the track — very good. The transmission in the face of the 8-speed "automatic" from Aisin also caused only positive emotions. The combination gives approximately 7 - 8 liters of consumption per hundred kilometers on the highway and 10 - 12 liters in combined cycle. An excellent indicator for a car of this size.
For those who like to drive “hotter”, the Aventura package appeared in the VW Amarok lineup, which received a 3.0-liter V6 turbo engine with 224 horses in the asset under the hood with a maximum torque of 550 Nm.
5. Psychological perception of a pickup truck.
This approach to business can be told in full, perhaps only by residents of the southern outskirts and throughout the United States. A pickup truck for a resident of Texas or Alabama is not just a workhorse, but a face. Without a pickup, you're not a cowboy, you're not a local, you're not a man. And point.
Talk about the fact that, they say, there is too much of it, too bulky, not aesthetic ... in general, you can get in the face with this approach. There should be a lot of a car, as well as emotions from owning it. Driving up to a bar somewhere on the outskirts of Dallas in a midsize sedan is like ordering still water or a diet cola from that bar. You understand. In this perception, Amarok is charisma. Not a Dodge Ram, of course, but a compromise.
In general, for a completely complete and adequate perception of Amarok as a full-fledged representative of the Russian automotive market, all of the above, of course, is not enough. That's why we tortured him, poor fellow, for quite a long time. He suited both the role of a traveler and the role of a reliable “collective farmer”, able to endure (transport) all the hardships and hardships of rural reality.
Summing up our adventures with the VW Amarok pickup, we can make the following verdict: despite its specificity in terms of bodywork (a pickup in Russia is still smaller than a pickup), the car has proven its versatility. And this is exactly what a huge share requires from a car. Russian buyers. Especially those who cannot imagine their existence without forays into the countryside of the Kuban and other regions of our vast.
New Ford Ranger clashed with VW Amarok. Who has won?2.0 L (180 HP) 8AT
price: 1,600,000 rubles.
ford ranger
2.2 L (150 hp) 6AT
price: 1 755 800 rubles.
Pickups will save the world. Don't believe?
In terms of equipment, they are almost as good as crossovers, their cross-country ability is at the level of good SUVs, the rear suspension is “real”, bridge, and if you pile up the kung… Envy, station wagon owners! On a languid winter evening, the editors of the ORD wondered where the world of trucks was heading. And now we are already traveling to Dmitrov on the new Ranger and rejuvenated Amarok. Both are with automatic weapons.
When black Volkswagen rolled under the spotlights of the service center, my boss and I gasped: there was absolutely not a single living place on the back of a relatively new pickup truck. Along the perimeter, it was decorated with characteristic vertical dents, which remain after contact with trees. The sides and hood were worn out on branches, and some especially adamant and inflexible representatives of the natural flora did LKP deep cuts. "Evil" Simex with side lugs, additional optics over a kung full of tourist equipment and club stickers hinted that the "German" does not suffer in the hands of a sloppy driver, but serves for the glory of off-road. A long-haired big man in a military outfit typical of a jeep got out of the cab and began to deftly snap off the bumper, under which a neatly executed platform with a jammed winch was discovered. “It crawls well, yes. Thrust? Enough,” he answered our questions. A fan of swamps and mud "mechanics" handy. Meanwhile, due to the lack of a version with automatic transmission gears, a beautiful pickup lost attention from those who value comfort and are close to the principle "the number of legs should match the number of pedals." And there are a lot of them. Do not forget that not everyone liked a certain lack of traction on the bottoms, the specifics of the gearbox and clutch drive. Even Andrey Sudbin, our deputy editor-in-chief, who has vast off-road experience behind him and has traveled almost all pickup trucks from Nissan NP300 to GMC Sierra and Ford Raptor, was not delighted with the characteristics of the pre-styling Amarok's bi-turbo supercharged engine and the selection of gear ratios. Finally, it happened: last fall volkswagen presented at the Moscow Motor Show a model with an eight-speed automatic and upgraded engines. Unlike the "mechanics", which works both with part time and with center differential, a vehicle with a ZF gearbox is equipped exclusively with a permanent all-wheel drive system based on Audi transmissions Q7. Such a symbiosis should make the truck more versatile in the eyes of consumers.
Another hot novelty of the season is the next generation Ford Ranger. Still a Spartan "truck" or a serious opponent to the European competitor?
Shooter Fedor and NATO caliber
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No more of that old Uncle Sam heading down the Mazda BT-50 trail. The new Ranger is no longer the old pokovboy rude, sadistically cramped pickup truck. The silver bristles were brushed off with a razor, they worked on weather-beaten skin in the spa, fed gainers in the gym, and now we have a fundamentally different car in front of us. Is it a rural laborer? In the cockpit, as if in modern crossover: the A-pillars are dashingly littered, the rounded front makes it difficult to immediately feel the dimensions (there is no such problem in Amarok), the dashboard is “inflated”, and the design of individual elements is a step away from the explorer’s internal space. Increase in wheelbase and overall length solved the problem with tightness in the second row of seats. And if the front of the car, according to our measurements, has become only a little wider, then the space in the back is now simply royal. A man of average height is at ease inside. There are no problems for those who have reached over 185 cm and have a “curb weight” under a hundredweight - they sit comfortably as if on driving position, and on the second row “by itself”.
But Amarok is still more spacious for the driver: the ceiling is higher, the longitudinal adjustment of the seat is larger. Volkswagen has no ergonomic flaws, no matter how you look for them. Everything is strictly, thoughtfully, qualitatively. Of the barely noticeable roughness, we note only the absence of a coolant temperature gauge on the functional instrument panel and a not very convenient mechanism for reclining the back of the rear sofa.
The Ranger is also very good, but it has a little more “jambs”. The power window control unit is shifted back to the elbow, and in order to operate the keys, you have to bend your arm. Strangely enough, reach steering column adjustment never appeared, although in fairness few mid-size pickups can boast of it. The navigation system was also disappointing: the monitor is very small, and the controls are completely incomprehensible.
One interesting fact came to my attention. “It is interesting that the landing, and general impression from the bowels of Amarok, rather crossover than "cargo". The amenities are extraordinary! But, alas, this introduces dissonance in the perception of the machine. Is this an overgrown Golf or an “immature” Touareg? Where is the gruff personality that a real truck should have?” - we wrote about Volkswagen in 2011, when the car clashed with the previous generation of the Ranger and laid it on both blades in terms of points. But now, against the backdrop of a progressive Ford interior, the Amarok no longer seems like a fattened or mutated Golf. Strict dark finishes, subjectively more vertically mounted pillars (sorry, the uncleaned area that wipers leave with driver's side, wider than the opponent), excellent visibility and a hood looming ahead. Touareg? Take more - a long-range tractor!
Comfortable pickup and... not a pickup at all
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The Ford's cabin soundproofing is excellent, but the controls are subject to small, typical diesel vibrations. Amarok shamelessly "deceives" even more. Not only is it very quiet inside, and the roar of the torquey "four" is almost inaudible until the tachometer needle breaks out for 3500-4000 rpm, but also the smoothness of the ride is completely different from what we were accustomed to Japanese pickups, especially the hard Navara and BT-50. It is extremely difficult to guess that the rear axle is suspended on three-leaf springs (the Heavy Duty version has five-leaf springs and increased load capacity) - the German tread is soft and unusually noble for a truck. Ford is noticeably tougher, but not uncomfortable and, most importantly, got rid of the “goat” inherent in its predecessor if you go empty.
In the corporate hierarchy, the 2.2-liter Duratorq engine is assigned a median role. We add with regret: being docked with a machine gun, it turns out to be average not only in rank, but in all senses. Alas, a pickup truck with a bunch of diesel and a leisurely six-speed automatic is no match even for its fellow on the “mechanics”. According to the factory data, a peak of 375 Nm is already available at 1500 rpm, but driving “on the moment” is not easy. On low revs- empty, the pickup godlessly "stupid". If you press the pedal a little harder, it’s already dense: with a roar, the Ranger tries to impress with dynamics in the wings. After a little adaptation, I managed to find golden mean in this riot of contrasts. But outside the city, with intense highway overtaking, Ford often trained our nerves. The box responds with a kickdown with a noticeable, almost two-second delay, the motor spins out with a roar, but turns sour on high revs, and the photographer sitting on the right manages to remind that he is still young and wants to live. Meanwhile on a small display on-board computer figures of completely non-diesel fuel consumption begin to be displayed ... We would choose "mechanics", which is still more convenient. But there were no complaints about handling or brakes.
Amarok with a gun is what you need. In terms of smoothness and speed, the 8-speed unit is at the level of the DSG preselective gearbox, and in terms of logic, perhaps even better.
ford ranger
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The Ford Ranger power unit is placed longitudinally in front. between front and rear wheels simple symmetrical differentials (D) are installed. Cross-wheel locks are simulated electronically. The previous generation model did not have a stability control system, and a self-locking differential was installed in the rear axle. There is no center differential, so front axle connected hard. There are three modes of operation of the transmission, which the driver can select using a washer near the automatic transmission selector. In 2H mode, only the rear wheels are driven. When the program 4H is selected, the front wheels are connected, and when the puck is moved to the 4L position, transfer box downshift (PP) is activated. The manufacturer does not recommend using the 4H and 4L modes on dry pavement, as one of the transmission elements may fail due to overloads.
They are SUVs, whatever one may say.
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Ranger, like almost all "classmates", except for Mitsubishi L200 with transmission Super Select and, in fact, Amarok with a center differential, retained the classic part-time scheme. In the absence of a lock in the rear axle, you can rely on electronic simulations tied to the ESP, which appeared on the model for the first time. Volkswagen with automatic transmission does not have a downshift, and its function is assigned to the "short" first step in the automatic transmission. very effective in overcoming difficult sections he is helped by a forced locking of the rear differential and the transfer of ABS and ESP to off-road mode, plus the activation of the "assistant to descend the mountain." Progress on the snow, as well as diagonal hanging, do not present a serious obstacle for our duelists. With the Ranger, however, you need to keep your eyes open for a banal reason: because of a not too fighting power unit. As we expected, it was he who became the main "anchor" on the off-road. But otherwise, the Ranger will breathe new life into jeepers who love to grumble, they say, “the SUV is not the same now, only SUVs.” The geometric cross-country ability is excellent, you can only complain about overhangs, a tow bar and useless decorative arch-steps, which cause the worst exit and ramp angles. So, for example, Ford's footsteps (short people are happy because, unlike the Amarok, there is no handrail on the A-pillar) “eat up” 83 mm of clearance. Almost all the layout subtleties of a beginner that can create some difficulties on the road are grouped in front of the bottom. There is only a plastic shield in front of the crankcase. The gaps next to the wheels and under the low levers are the smallest of all measured.
Amarok lacks power protection of the engine pan, while the clearance to the ground under the front axle in the center is almost equal to the Ford one. Damage the engine crankcase, covered from below by a stabilizer roll stability, perhaps only on a really heavy off-road. So if you get out into the wilderness, sheet protection will not hurt. The fuel tank and exhaust tract elements in the central part, hanging below the vehicle frame, are knocked out of a rather "slender" row of units and assemblies, pressed under the bottom, and may be the first to suffer on the terrain.
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The Volkswagen Amarok power unit is installed longitudinally in front. Between the wheels of the front and rear axle symmetrical differentials (D) are installed. The rear differential is locked forcibly, with a button located near the automatic transmission selector (B). The torque between the front and rear axles is distributed by a transfer case with an interaxle self-locking differential. Structurally, the Amarok all-wheel drive system is based on a transfer case Audi box Q7/Volkswagen Touareg, which is modified for the pickup. Unlike the modification with the part-time transmission, the car with the full-time scheme does not have a demultiplier. The Offroad ESP program (activated by the button near the automatic transmission selector) changes the algorithm ABS work and ESP. For example, at speeds below 50 km/h, the stability control system intervenes later than usual to correct understeer.
Is the good still available?
The automatic transmission is offered on the diesel Ranger Double Cab 2.2 TD, starting with the XLT configuration, which differs from the test Limited (from 1,445,000 rubles) in the presence of air conditioning, and not separate climate control, fabric upholstery seats, mechanical adjustments driver's seat. In addition, the XLT cannot be ordered with a rear-view camera, available with the optional 5-inch color display audio package, navigation and Bluetooth.
The base Volkswagen Amarok, which is standardly equipped with power windows, power mirrors, heated front seats, an active safety complex with a two-row cab and an automatic machine, costs from 1,246,900 rubles. And the top Highline (just like that was on our test) starts from 1,494,100 rubles. Given the balance of driving properties, good cross-country ability and an almost light level of comfort, the price tag does not seem overpriced at all.
We will be careful not to say that the six-speed “fluid mechanics” paints a 2.2-liter Ford truck. But after all, on this modification, the light did not converge like a wedge. There's always the good old "mechanics" or... "Second gear, the clutch casually released, and the pickup effortlessly climbs the slope." This is a Ranger with a three-and-two scrap diesel about 470 Nm, which I happened to ride during Russian presentation models in the Elbrus region. Our option! As for the German pickup truck, this is a wonderful car in which you don’t feel at least somewhat deprived when you change into it from SUVs that cost a couple of million rubles more. We suspect that the only one that combines the advantages different types cars and not standing more expensive than competitors, has good chances in the market.
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| The results of geometric and weight measurements made by editorial experts in the conditions of an auto-polygon | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ford ranger | ||||
| C | Clearance under the front axle in the center, mm | 222 | 226 | |
| Clearance under the front axle in the shoulder area, mm | 201 | 210 | ||
| Clearance under rear axle in the center, mm | 212 | 242 | ||
| Clearance under the rear axle in the shoulder area, mm | 305 | 320 | ||
| D | Minimum clearance inside the base, mm | 418 | 296 | |
| Clearance under the frame or side member, mm | 325 | 325 | ||
| Clearance under the fuel tank, mm | 340 | 279 | ||
| B1 | Cabin width in front, mm | 1380 | 1480 | |
| B2 | Rear cabin width, mm | 1425 | 1440 | |
| B3 | Width cargo platform min./max., mm | 1126/1417 | 1220/1620 | |
*R point (hip joint) to accelerator pedal
** The driver's seat is set to L 1 = 950 mm from point R to the accelerator pedal, the rear seat is shifted all the way back
***Measured in top position air suspension.
| Vehicle Specifications | ||
|---|---|---|
| ford ranger | ||
| MAIN CHARACTERISTICS | ||
| Length/width/height, mm | 5359/1850/1815 | 5254/1954/1834 |
| Wheel base, mm | 3220 | 3095 |
| Track front / rear, mm | 1560/1560 | 1647/1647 |
| Curb / full weight, kg | 2063/3200 | 1975/2820 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 175 | 179 |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s | 12,6 | 10,9 |
| Turning diameter, m | 12,4 | 12,9 |
| FUEL CONSUMPTION | ||
| City cycle, l/100 km | 11,9 | 10,1 |
| Country cycle, l/100 km | 8,0 | 7,3 |
| Combined cycle, l/100 km | 9,4 | 8,3 |
| Fuel/volume fuel tank, l | DT/80 | DT/80 |
| ENGINE | ||
| engine's type | Turbodiesel | Turbodiesel |
| Location and number of cylinders | R4 | R4 |
| Working volume, cm 3 | 2198 | 1968 |
| Power, hp/kW at rpm | 150/110 at 3700 | 180/132 at 180/132 |
| Torque, Nm at rpm | 375 at 1500 | 420 at 1750–2250 |
| TRANSMISSION | ||
| Transmission | 6AT | 8AT |
| Downshift | 2,48 | – |
| CHASSIS | ||
| Front suspension | independent, spring | independent, spring |
| rear suspension | Dependent spring | Dependent spring |
| Steering gear | Rack | Rack |
| Brakes Front | Disc ventilated | Disc ventilated |
| Brakes Rear | drums | drums |
| Active Safety Tools | ABS, ESP, EBD, EBA, HAS, HDC | ABS, ESP, EBA, EDL, ASR, EBC |
| Tire size | 245/70 R16 (29.5")* | 255/55 R19 (30.0")* |
| MAINTENANCE COSTS | ||
| Estimated costs for the year and 20 thousand km, rub. | 227 296 | 207 814 |
| The calculation takes into account | ||
| Cost of OSAGO+CASCO policies**, rub. | 136 622 | 115 530 |
| Road tax in Moscow, rub. | 5250 | 9000 |
| Base cost of maintenance***, rub. | 19 200 | 19 666 |
| We are standing. first oil change***, rub. | 5500 | 10 000 |
| Frequency of maintenance, thousand km | 15 | 15 |
| Fuel costs for the combined cycle, rub. | 60 724 | 53 618 |
| WARRANTY TERMS | ||
| Duration of the guarantee, years/thous. km | 2/no limit | 2/no limit |
| CAR COST | ||
| Test equipment ****, rub. | 1 755 800 | 1 600 000 |
| Basic equipment****, rub. | 1 373 000 | 1 246 900 |
**Averaging based on data from two large insurance companies
***Including consumables
****At the time of preparation of the material, taking into account current discounts
| Expert assessments according to test results | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Index | Max. score | Ford Ranger | Volkswagen Amarok | Positions in the ranking |
| Body | 25,0 | 19,9 | 18,8 | |
| Driver's seat | 9,0 | 5,9 | 6,8 | With a final score of 40 points, the new Ranger took a place at the top of the 4th ten in the "Body, Ergonomics and Comfort" rating and, against the backdrop of a modest result of its predecessor (32.9 points), clearly demonstrated what progress is. Ford pulled up significantly in all positions and performed especially strongly in the Safety category, earning five stars in the EuroNCAP crash tests, which no other pickup truck could do before. The achievement is reflected in our assessments. Volkswagen Amarok received a total of 39.9 points and occupied the line between Toyota Highlander and Mercedes -Benz GLK. "German" has a more spacious body, but received a lower score in the "Cargo Platform" nomination. This is explained by the fact that the carrying capacity of the "German", equipped with a "comfortable" suspension with rear three-leaf springs, is significantly less than that of the Ranger. |
| Seat behind the driver | 7,0 | 6,4 | 5,6 | |
| cargo platform | 5,0 | 3,6 | 3,4 | |
| Safety | 4,0 | 4,0 | 3,0 | |
| Ergonomics and comfort | 25,0 | 20,1 | 21,1 | |
| Governing bodies | 5,0 | 4,3 | 4,8 | |
| Devices | 5,0 | 4,7 | 4,8 | |
| Climate control | 4,0 | 3,1 | 3,2 | |
| Interior materials | 1,0 | 0,6 | 0,9 | |
| Light and visibility | 5,0 | 3,7 | 3,7 | |
| Options | 5,0 | 3,7 | 3,7 | |
| Off-road qualities | 20,0 | 15,6 | 14,8 | |
| gaps | 4,0 | 3,0 | 3,3 | History repeated itself: Ranger again snatched victory from Amarok in the "off-road" rating. Ford finished in the bottom of the 2nd ten for "Off-Road Performance". This is one of the best results among all pickups that have ever been tested by the ORD. Volkswagen also secured a fairly solid place for a truck at the top of the 3rd top ten in the ranking. Ford's winning position is due to the presence of a reduction gear and tires with a higher profile. |
| corners | 5,0 | 3,5 | 3,8 | |
| Articulation | 3,0 | 2,6 | 2,5 | |
| Transmission | 4,0 | 3,4 | 2,5 | |
| Security | 2,0 | 1,4 | 1,3 | |
| wheels | 2,0 | 1,7 | 1,4 | |
| Expeditionary qualities | 20,0 | 15,4 | 16,6 | |
| Controllability | 3,0 | 2,1 | 2,2 | A paradoxical situation: both pickups show a modest appetite in the combined cycle and deserve the highest possible mark for the range on the highway, but in the "Expeditionary qualities" nomination, they took relatively low places. Ford Ranger took a place in the 8th ten of the ranking, and Volkswagen settled in the 5th ten. The provisions in the nomination are explained by the specifics of scoring and the introduction of the columns “Loading platform volume” and “Back sofa width” for pickups instead of “Carrying capacity” and “Unfolded trunk length” for SUVs. |
| Driving comfort | 3,0 | 1,9 | 2,1 | |
| Accelerating dynamics | 3,0 | 2,5 | 2,7 | |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3,0 | 2,8 | 3,0 | |
| Highway range | 2,0 | 2,0 | 2,0 | |
| Load platform volume | ford ranger||||
_VWAmarok_FordRanger_Page_10_Image_0001.jpg) | _VWAmarok_FordRanger_Page_10_Image_0002.jpg) |
|||
| pros | High level modern equipment, spacious second row of seats, good off-road potential | Outstanding ride and comfort for a pickup truck, superb engine and automatic | ||
| Minuses | apathetic power unit, interior design for an amateur, ergonomic flaws | Traditional for Volkswagen cars severity and twilight in the interior | ||
| Verdict | Decent mid-size pickup, but ... 2.2 TD AT and 3.2 TD AT share 112,000 rubles. The choice is yours | Pickup truck devoid of row typical disadvantages and endowed strengths cars of other classes | ||
text: Asatur BISEMBIN
photo: Roman TARASENKO
Of course, if you compare Amarok and Ranger outwardly, then there is nothing to talk about some kind of healthy competition. And in due time international exhibition Ford Ranger pickups clearly proved that Volkswagen still has to learn and learn. At the exhibition, Amarok took only third place, while Ranger got first.
Inside view and comfort
Well, let's move on to a closer acquaintance with our cars, and find out who came out, Volkswagen Amarok or Ford Ranger.
Getting into Amarok, the first thing that catches your eye is the air ducts. Well, why ask to spoil the already unremarkable atmosphere with budget air ducts from? And the point here is not even the cheapness and simplicity of these details, but the fact that their design is not at all in harmony with general view interior and exterior. As we said before, appearance Volkswagen is very strict and rectangular. In the same style and the general atmosphere inside. The rather flat, unattractive front fascia, which is based on straight lines, has the same cut-away look, and is reminiscent of that of a multi-ton work truck or dump truck.
Where is the vaunted feeling of a passenger car? Large, round outlet plugs, similar to air ducts, do not fit into the overall picture at all and seem to be unnecessary details that you want to get rid of as soon as possible. The plastic is, as you would expect, very hard. Of course, this is, first of all, a working car, it is a pickup truck and it was not made for beauty and comfort. But his price does not quite match the simple workhorse. In addition, Volkswagen has positioned its pickup truck as very comfortable and inside of which you will feel like in a full-fledged passenger car.
Undoubtedly, Volkswagen's passenger habits open up in motion, but only the driver feels it. Driving in the Amarok is quite light and laid-back, and when paired, the car really feels like a passenger car. However, rear passengers do not understand this. The rear seat backs are almost vertical, and there is very little legroom. So behind the comfort you can only dream of.
The suspension version for the city can partially mitigate the lack of convenience. But with such a suspension, Amarok almost completely loses the capabilities of a pickup truck. Since in rear springs such a suspension has only three plates, and there are five in the standard. So the carrying capacity on the urban version of the Volkswagen is significantly lower than that of competitors, but the ride and ease of operation are much higher. But why buy a bulky pickup truck that can carry a little more than, and even with less comfort?
Getting into the salon of an American, already at first glance there is an answer to the question of who is better, or the Ford Ranger. The interior is really very reminiscent of Ford cars. Both outside and inside new version The Ranger has nothing left of its predecessor. This is a car completely created from scratch, which has incorporated everything that modern people require.
Now this is not the old Ranger with a simple and unremarkable interior. From now on, sitting in this car, you feel like the king of the roads, and not an agricultural worker. The same bloated as the Ranger itself, the front panel, made in a very harmonious style. Bright and bewitching dashboard. The finishing plastic is hard, but if you compare the Amarok and Ranger, then the quality of the Ford finish is many times higher, and in appearance this oak plastic can easily be mistaken for a noble material. Very original and modern design, will leave few people indifferent, especially since it has a lot of adjustments, which include audio control. However, the steering wheel itself has the ability to adjust only in height, while Amarok has more opportunities in this case, namely, you can change the position in terms of reach and height. However, Ford's are many times more comfortable, spacious, and have special support. Moreover, it is possible to adjust the chair as you like with the help of electric drives. In Volkswagen, all adjustments are mechanical and, in terms of their capabilities, are significantly inferior to the Ranger.
Perhaps one of important details, the convenience of rear passengers in Ford is just on top. Amarok is far behind in this sense. Ranger is simply created for the city. Even with a height of 180 centimeters, you can easily sit in the back seat, and at the same time you will have quite a lot of legroom. At the back, as well as at the front, there are armrests, and the back of the sofa has a sufficient slope so that you feel great even in long trips. Under the rear seat, there are two hiding places in which you can put tools. In the Wildtrak version, the interior of the Ranger becomes even more attractive thanks to the new design of the seats, available only in this configuration. There will be new ones with the Wildtrak inscription, in addition, the seats will be made of leather and fabric in black and orange colors.
Ranger has another very original solution- the multimedia display is not located directly on the dashboard, but in a special niche that protects it from daylight glare. Due to the fact that the display is constantly in the shade, the image on it is seen quite brightly and clearly. In addition, on the interior rearview mirror, there is another display for displaying the image.
In terms of the combination of main factors, such as attractiveness, convenience and comfort, the Ford Ranger clearly outperforms the Volkswagen Amarok. And therefore, we deservedly award the first place for the best salon to Ford's masterpiece.
Technical comparison, engines and running parameters
So, let's take a look at what Ford and Volkswagen have to offer motorists from a technical point of view.
Test drive a Ford Ranger car:
The three-liter version of the Ranger, perhaps, has only one drawback regarding the Volkswagen - high flow fuel. In all other respects, Ford clearly outperforms the Amarok. How small it is generally out of competition. Huge power allows the Ranger, even with a load on board, to behave very briskly on the track. Amarok, having already taken on board half a ton of cargo, begins to clearly surrender in maneuverability, in acceleration and speed. Ranger, on the contrary, with each new kilogram becomes only more obedient.
When choosing a Volkswagen Amarok or Ford Ranger, we recommend paying attention to Ford. One of the main advantages of the Ranger is this. At one time, Henry Ford set out to make cars accessible to everyone. His company still follows this principle to this day. And the Ford Ranger is a prime example of this. For comparison, the cheapest version of the Volkswagen with a double cab and rear wheel drive costs 1,365,900 rubles, and the most expensive Amarok in the Canyon configuration will cost you as much as 2,583,700 rubles. Most cheap ford The Ranger will cost 1,369,000 rubles, only 3,100 more, but you get a car. The most expensive Ranger in the Wildtrak version will cost only 1,709,000 rubles. The difference is almost a million rubles. Despite such a difference in price, the Ford Ranger is much more reliable, more comfortable, more beautiful and more passable than the Volkswagen.
Test drive of a Volkswagen Amarok car:
So, we tried to compare Amarok and Ranger. We did it, and as a result, we identified only one significant advantage of the Volkswagen over the Ranger. Amarok is indeed more economical in terms of fuel, but this is where all its outstanding qualities end.
The pickup class is still a little-studied segment for Russian consumers. Therefore, when choosing such cars, you can easily be deceived. When buying these cars, you should not rely on the brand and appearance of the car, carefully study the characteristics of each candidate, and then you will not waste your money, but will get a strong and reliable “steel horse” for all occasions.
Created a magnificent version of the car, which combines large load capacity, high permeability, stylish design and excellent power unit. But these are not all the advantages of this model. To learn more about the advantages and capabilities of an SUV, a review of the Volkswagen Amarok will help.
The Germans are a pragmatic people, so they approached the development of this car with great seriousness. Pickup trucks were originally designed to carry not only large, but also dirty loads. What can not be put in the trunk ordinary car, it is quite possible to move in the cargo compartment of a pickup truck. At the same time, the interior remains clean and comfortable.
But in this case, simply creating an open space in the cargo compartment will not work. Even a non-specialist understands that it is not enough to “cut off” a part of the body and weld a trailer to it. The development of this type of car includes many components:
- Powerful.
- Reliable springs.
- Strong frame.
- and tires etc.
As you can see, the designers had to work hard, and now let's take a closer look at what happened as a result of fruitful work.
Universal option
Initially, the model was conceived to solve purely utilitarian purposes: the transport of goods. We have already said that the car has a high load capacity. It can easily move more than a ton (manufacturers call the figure - 1100-1200 kg). Pickup trucks at the dawn of their history were "workhorses" adapted for transportation, including on bad roads.
That is why the approach to creating such an option was purposeful: developed powerful motor, robust construction and providing special running capabilities. All these criteria are met specifications Volkswagen Amarok.
Now let's talk a little about beauty. Think of American films in which the heroes move around in pickup trucks. But as a rule, what kind of cars are they: broken gibberish, evoking a feeling of compassion and pity. Often they are used by farmers, as well as people involved in small business. Yes, they work great country roads without asphalt, they transport vegetables or building materials, meat or fish. But can they be called the car of your dreams? Hardly.
That is why we will start with Volkswagen appearance Amarok. Imagine a "mini-truck":
- Width can vary from 1944 to 1954 mm.
- The length is 5254 mm.
- The height is also impressive - 1834.
Great design
Let's start the Volkswagen Amarok review with some features. The pickup truck is available in two versions "Single Cab" - a double cab and "Double Cab" - a four-door cab with five seats, including the driver.
What to say about the exterior? It is simply magnificent: soft lines combine the power of wheel arches. The stylish grille with horizontal stripes is in perfect harmony with the headlights and the company logo.
- The interior is functional and comfortable, as in most cars this company. Any pleasure for your money: climate control, comfortable seats, heated front seats, pleasant little things in the form of cup holders, rugs and covers.
- Mandatory electric drives not only for the windows of all doors, but also for the side mirrors. The huge interior allows three adults to travel comfortably in the rear seats. The seat angle is comfortable. The only problem can arise if the thresholds are not set. Getting into the cabin will not be very convenient.
- The steering wheel is comfortable and stylish. Everything you need is on the front panel, including an on-board computer screen and a car radio.
- A large body can be made more attractive and functional. For this, a kung with windows or a roller cover is specially installed.
In general, the car looks powerful. All elements are large, but harmonious. To make it more recognizable, the designers suggested placing company logo front and tailgate.
Now let's look under the hood.
Characteristics of the power unit
Engineers equipped the SUV with a wonderful 2-liter turbocharged volume. Quite enough 140 Horse power power to easily move heavy loads, overcome difficult sections of roads, steep slopes, landslides.
The maximum pickup speed is 168 km/h. Do you think a little? But let's look at Russian realities. Most highways have speed limits, so exceeding is fraught with problems with the police. Therefore, this speed is quite enough. Despite the large mass, the car accelerates to 100 km / h in just 13 seconds.
A slight increase in speed to 179 km / h provides a new turbodiesel, which can be selected from 2013 onwards. In this case, the power is 180 "horses", and acceleration to hundreds is possible in 10.9 seconds.
| car model | Volkswagen Amarok |
| Manufacturer country | Germany/Argentina |
| body type | pickup |
| Number of places | 2/5 |
| Number of doors | 4 |
| Engine capacity, cc | 1968 |
| Power, l. s./about. min. | 180/400 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 184 |
| Acceleration up to 100 km/h, s | 10,3 |
| type of drive | full |
| checkpoint | manual transmission / automatic transmission |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Consumption per 100 km | 9,8 |
| Length, mm | 5254 |
| Width, mm | 1944 |
| Height, mm | 1834 |
| Clearance, mm | 230 |
| Tire size | 245/70/R16, 245/65/R17 |
| Curb weight, kg | 1889 |
| Gross weight, kg | 3040 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 |
The gearbox in the initial version was exclusively mechanical. But at present, if you wish, you can choose a reliable and easy to manage.
good foundation
Engineers came up with a new platform for the car so that it fully matches the possible loads. The basis was the ladder frame, the most durable and reliable for this class of car.
rear volkswagen suspension Amarok is designed in two versions: with two-leaf springs (they are considered the most comfortable) and five-leaf springs (a simpler option).
The front suspension is independent with coil springs and double wishbones. Wheel disks Roca are reliable because they are made of high-strength material, All-Terrain tires will not let you down on any road. They also contribute to the fact that the ground clearance has increased to 265 mm.
The developers "gave" the pickup 3 types of drive:
- For smooth roads and rear-wheel drive is more convenient in the urban cycle.
- With the plug-in all-wheel drive, it is easy to overcome steep slopes and drive on snowy slopes.
- Permanent full for especially difficult roads and soils: sand, mud, clay.
An interesting test drive of the Volkswagen Amarok was held near San Carlos de Bariloche. As a result of a trip along the pampas, mountain serpentine roads, country roads, we managed to see what a pickup truck is capable of: excellent cross-country ability, steep climbs were overcome without problems.
But unfortunately, due to the spring suspension, passengers in the rear seats can shake a little. Perhaps it sounds paradoxical, but for greater comfort, about 200 kg of cargo in the back is needed. This weight is sufficient to provide good grip with the road.
Therefore, if the owner’s plans do not include constant transportation of goods, it is worth considering an SUV with a traditional body.
Otherwise, the technical characteristics of the Volkswagen Amarok are really on top. This allows you to overcome serious obstacles:
- Puddles and other water streams up to half a meter deep.
- Enter on a hill of about 28 degrees, and move out - 23 °.
- Move on slopes of 23 degrees.
The creators have put in a lot of effort to make decent car this class. Interesting marketing "tricks" were invented by pragmatic Germans. They did not immediately conquer the American market, which has long been densely filled with models made in the USA and Japan.
Therefore, marketers did not “punch through” the wall of the American market with their heads, but offered their new product for sale in Latin American countries. An unusual advertising concept was chosen: a sand dune pickup truck. It would seem that not so often there is a need to travel along coastal beaches. But the idea hit the spot. Such an advertising campaign showed high cross-country ability, the reliability of the unit and the remarkable load capacity of the SUV. And since 2009, production of an SUV began in Argentina to fill the South American market.
The undeniable advantages of a pickup truck are obvious. The car can proudly wear the status of an SUV. The permeability is very high. On all-wheel drive Volkswagen can easily overcome sandy areas, move along the primer in any rain, this also applies to snow. In addition, the advantage is:
- Installed 8-speed.
- big luggage compartment and high load capacity.
- A diesel engine that performs better than a gasoline engine in frosty weather.
- Reasonable price in comparison with analogues of other, especially American manufacturers.
Experts note small disadvantages.
- Poor quality windshield: sand and small pebbles leave scratches.
- The wiper blade wears out quickly.
- Not very good soundproofing. For a comfortable trip, you will have to do extra.
- Large turning circle (about 13 m).
A car can be a great option for entrepreneurs who need constant transportation of goods. But at the same time it can be used for other purposes: recreation, long trips.
Outcome
Despite the fact that initially South America, and then Australia and Africa, were considered the main sales markets, the Russians appreciated this model. The polls revealed an interesting trend. Most buyers buy cars not for business, but because they like big cars, they are reliable, powerful and will not let you down in any weather and on the worst road.
