4 Practical Additions for Your Volkswagen Amarok

The Amarok is one of the few European utes that’s been well received by Aussies. Available in various versions since 2011, this Euro workhorse can be upgraded and outfitted with dozens of aftermarket parts. This includes parts that increase the ute’s hauling capacity, protect it in everyday and off-roading driving, and simplify towing with improved safety. 

Increasing Space 

Regardless of the cab type, all Amarok models can fit a Euro pallet in the tray bed, with room for leftovers. If that isn’t enough, then consider space-enhancing Volkswagen parts and accessories like roof racks, or doubling overall space with an aftermarket-fitted tray and integrated toolboxes or canopies. Traditional rack choices are aluminium platforms with flat surfaces when carrying extra bulky and long items like building and sport equipment; cage or basket racks with enclosed raised side rails for increased security and safety for smaller items; and hybrid tradesman racks that also can also double as foundations for larger awnings when taking family or friends camping. 

When shopping, observe roof rack lengths and widths compatible with your Amarok (there are size differences between earlier 2H and current NF Series utes), overall loading capacities (most racks top out at 100 kilos of rated weight) and sturdy metal construction with welded cross members for structural support and treatment to prevent corrosion. 

As for toolboxes and canopies, these are best on custom-built, heavy-duty trays fitted with extras like headboards, high side rails, integrated taillights and indicators and additions like slide drawers and compression locks. Full-length fixed canopies are the perfect choice for maximising space, with internal drawers, shelves, pantries and parts bin for both tradies and off-roading enthusiasts. 

And can include canopy and ladder racks for any items too big to fit inside. Toolboxes are smaller, though geared more for work with space for hand and power tools, work equipment, PPE gear and more. They come in a variety of designs and sizes (gullwing, square, cross-deck, high side, under tray) and varying mounting and positioning options. Both tray accessories boost space and security by organising your gear and protecting it from theft and the elements. 

Protecting Your Amarok 

The Amarok has decent ground clearance, a capable 4WD drivetrain and torquey engines primed for demanding off-road. To protect the ute from wildlife hits, stumps, rocks and collisions, consider front-end protection. Most owners will go for full triple-hoop steel bull bars that do a good job at protecting the engine and bodywork from direct impact and accidents. These replace the stock bumpers, bolting directly to the chassis rails. Besides acting as a protective barrier, bull bars are the base for off-roading necessities, including winches, recovery tow points, and off-roading lights. 

Scaled-down versions are single-hoops (with less coverage) and hoop-less bull bars (offering the same protection in a smaller footprint). Benefits of traditional triple-hoops are that they also take side brush bars for increased side protection, and bash plates to shield the underbody. For serious off-roading, also look into bonnet protectors to prevent gravel damage, welded rock sliders for technical terrain, and side steps for improved lower side protection. 

Off-roading Essentials 

Outfitting the Amarok for off-road duty means more than protective parts to keep rocks away. Dust and water are the two main concerns in the bush, and can get the engine in trouble. Consider fitting off-roading-specific parts like snorkels to draw cleaner and filtered air from higher up, and when traversing flooded streams. And fit differentials with diff-breathers to prevent axles and boxes from seizing from temperature extremes, water ingress and accompanying corrosion. 

For worry-free exploring, additionally fit the Amarok with rated recovery points (with double the towing weight of a fully laden ute) in thick-gauge steel. These bolt to the chassis rails or directly to the bull bar. Pair points with other Volkswagen parts and accessories, including recovery hitches, straps, tracks and shackles, and consider electric winches with synthetic or steel rope to get you out of tight spots when bogged down. 

Towing Accessories

With a 3500-kg braked towing capacity, the Amarok can easily tow larger and heavier trailers, boats and caravans. Fit the ute with tested towing VW accessories and parts for improved safety. Rear steel tow bars with attached and rated tow balls will be enough for the majority of towing tasks. These can additionally be integrated with brake harnesses for electric brake systems in trailers and caravans to allow for correct brake force and prevent jackknifing. 

Smooth and effortless towing is also dependent on visibility. To negotiate turns and backing up, install bigger towing mirrors. With a wider footprint, towing mirrors enhance the driver’s field of view to the rear, preventing scrapes and more serious damage. They’re also a legal requirement in most states. 

Summing Up

Regardless if you own a first-gen or current Amarok, the range of practical and versatile aftermarket accessories and parts ensures your ute is protected at all times, returns from the bush unscathed and has all the storage capacity you’d ever want. Source ADR-approved and compliant parts from local dealers and parts manufacturers.