2023 VW Amarok Based On New Ranger Spotted Testing At Ford’s Proving Grounds In Michigan

It has long been known that VW would be collaborating with Ford on its next Amarok small pickup and now we’re getting our first look at what the new truck will look like.

Spy photos captured at Ford’s test track in Dearborn, Michigan, show a new Ranger-sized pickup truck testing with a few Volkswagen traits, such as the lights.

Unlike the upcoming Ranger, which has also been spotted testing in Dearborn, the head and taillights on this truck look different. Unlike the Ford, these headlights appear to have horizontal DRLs that look distinctly like Volkswagen units.

The taillights also differ from the Ranger’s more elaborate double-bump units. Higher fog lights, too, are a clue as to the nature of this truck’s branding.

There are some differences in the sheet metal, too. This truck’s hood cut-line dips into the front fender, something previewed in teasers of the Amarok released by VW. Our spy photographers say that the Amarok’s wheels are completely different from anything previously seen on the Ranger test trucks.

The Amarok seen here also has a unique feature to the left of the tailgate handle. Although its purpose is unclear, it suggests that VW has fitted its truck with a feature that is all its own.

With the truck testing in Dearborn, it seems that Ford truly is taking the lead on its development. That makes sense, given comments made by VW’s head of commercial vehicles, Thomas Sedran, in June 2020.

“Ultimately it is our customers who will benefit, as without the cooperation we would not have developed a new Amarok,” said Sedran. “What is important for both partners is the utilization of the same platform. At the same time we will both be able to fully deploy our strengths. Through custom designs and interfaces we will clearly differentiate the two models.”

Indeed, the Amarok will be made at Ford’s Silverton, South Africa, plant from 2022. Although the truck is being developed in the U.S., Volkswagen seems wary of trying to introduce a pickup in the North American market and has said that it is focusing on its core European market, as well as the Middle East.