Comparing the Cabins of the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok

Stepping from a Ford Ranger into a Volkswagen Amarok, one can’t help but notice the striking similarities in their basic cabin architecture. Both trucks feature a large portrait-orientated infotainment screen, a gear-selector, rotary dial for drive modes, and door handles that bear a resemblance to each other. However, the Amarok manages to maintain its own unique identity amidst the familiar elements borrowed from the Blue Oval’s pick-up.

The interior of the Amarok exudes a sense of premium quality, offering a luxurious mix of materials, advanced digital technology, great visibility, and comfort. The Panamericana test car, in particular, boasts brown leather accents that add a touch of opulence, complemented by a leather-topped dash and steering wheel. While the overall perceived quality is high, some plastic elements like the gear selector shroud and dashboard trim feel a bit flimsy. The door plastics, though not the most luxurious, are durable and suit the rugged character of the Amarok.

The centerpiece of the cabin is the 12.0-inch central infotainment display, which features crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. The large icons make it easy to navigate the system while on the move. However, unlike the Ranger’s physical climate control switches, the Amarok relies on the touchscreen for temperature and fan-speed adjustments, which can be cumbersome and distracting while driving.

Despite this minor inconvenience, the Amarok offers a comfortable driving position with its highly adjustable seats, thin pillars, expansive rear window, and large door mirrors that contribute to excellent visibility. The rear seating area is spacious enough for taller adults, thanks to the roof indent that provides ample headroom. While legroom is sufficient for most passengers, fitting three adults in the back may be a tight squeeze due to the transmission tunnel encroaching on the middle-seat space.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Amarok’s cabin strikes a balance between premium comfort and practicality, with a few minor drawbacks in terms of material quality and climate control interface. Overall, it offers a refined and upscale environment for both driver and passengers alike.