Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Edition: Off-Road Special Revealed

Volkswagen has officially unveiled the Amarok 10 Deserts Edition, a limited-run model inspired by the record-breaking journey across Australia’s 10 deserts. Expected to be priced between $65,000 and $70,000, the special edition is set to arrive in Q2 2025, with only 300 units available.

The Amarok 10 Deserts Edition builds on the Amarok Life TDI500 variant and includes a 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine producing 154kW and 500Nm. It features a 10-speed automatic transmission, 4Motion all-wheel drive, and weighs 80kg less than its V6 counterpart, which Volkswagen states "allows greater control when off-roading." Standard equipment includes hill descent control, a rear diff lock, and four drive modes for various terrains.

Functional upgrades include a 40mm ARB-derived suspension lift and a segment-leading 275mm ground clearance. Volkswagen has incorporated composite underbody protection, described as offering "steel-like strength without the weight," to enhance durability and flexibility. The Amarok is fitted with 17-inch satin black alloy wheels wrapped in Continental CrossContact all-terrain tyres, with a no-cost option for more aggressive off-road tyres.

Exclusive accessories were developed in partnership with ARB and Kumho. These include a snorkel, electrical pack, dust seal kit, soft tonneau cover, roof platform, and ARB spotlights. Black accents, such as tinted rear windows, a black sports bar, and "10 Deserts" decals, complement the vehicle’s white-only paint option.

Volkswagen emphasized that the 10 Deserts Edition is not intended to replicate the record-setting V6 Amarok, which cost over $120,000 to prepare. Ryan Davies, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles director, explained, "Our aim with the Amarok 10 Deserts Edition is to capture the elements that made our Volkswagen 4MOTION product work so well in Australia—tougher tyres, underbody protection, and class-leading clearance—then deliver them in a lighter and attainable package."

The limited-run model offers many of the enhancements used during the desert expedition. After the 300 units sell out, these off-road extras will still be available for purchase with other Amarok variants. Volkswagen positions the Amarok 10 Deserts Edition as an off-road-focused model, bridging the gap between the Amarok Life TDI500 and Amarok Style TDI500.'