MTM reveals Volkswagen Amarok V8 Desert Edition for Geneva
MTM and DIRKS have transformed the Volkswagen Amarok into a 410hp V8 Desert Edition, debuting at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show with extreme off-road hardware and a luxury interior.
MTM has brought a striking new version of the Volkswagen Amarok to the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, unveiling the V8 Desert Edition with a 410hp 4.2-litre TDI engine and a host of off-road upgrades. Developed in partnership with DIRKS, the project turns Volkswagen's pickup into a luxury-laden, high-performance off-roader aimed at a niche audience.
Performance and technical highlights
The Amarok V8 Desert Edition's centrepiece is its 4.2-litre TDI V8, producing 410hp and 685lb ft of torque. MTM pairs this with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic, delivering a claimed 0-62mph in six seconds and a top speed of 149mph. The chassis is uprated with coilover suspension and a high-performance braking system, featuring 16-inch discs at the front and 14-inch at the rear, to handle the extra power and weight.
Exterior modifications are designed for serious off-road use. The Amarok sits on 20-inch BBS alloy wheels wrapped in Cooper off-road tyres, with extended fender flares, a front brush guard, side steps, a roll cage and blacked-out badging. The two-tone paintwork and aggressive stance set it apart from standard Amaroks and most rivals at the show.
Luxury interior and price
Inside, MTM has fitted leather and Alcantara upholstery, carbon fibre trim, auxiliary gauges and a full infotainment system with GPS navigation and television. The interior moves away from the rugged exterior, offering a high level of comfort and technology more in line with luxury SUVs than commercial pickups.
Position at Geneva and market context
MTM's Amarok V8 Desert Edition stands out at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, where most pickups on display stick to factory specifications or mild upgrades. The project highlights the growing interest in high-performance, luxury pickups for private buyers, rather than just commercial users. With its price, specification and limited run, the Desert Edition is aimed at collectors and enthusiasts rather than fleet operators. For more on Volkswagen's show presence, see Volkswagen reveals new Touran MPV at 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
