For American auto enthusiasts familiar with the intricacies of US vehicle import regulations, the 25-year import rule is common knowledge. This regulation generally prohibits importing vehicles less than 25 years old into the United States. Therefore, the recent appearance of a 2017 VW Amarok for sale at a Michigan dealership came as a considerable surprise. This four-year-old pickup truck, never officially sold in the US market, immediately sparked curiosity and questions about its legality and availability.
Listed at Garage Kept Motors with a price tag of $44,900 (though reportedly sold now), this particular Amarok was imported from Mexico and legally titled in Michigan. At the time of listing, it boasted a mileage of 48,127 kilometers (29,904 miles). According to a report by The Drive, the dealership clarified that the vehicle was registered as a farm truck to circumvent the stringent 25-year import rule. While this loophole might have been acceptable in Michigan, its legality in other US states remains questionable and could pose significant risks for potential buyers.
Decoding the Volkswagen Amarok’s Appeal
The Volkswagen Amarok, a robust four-door pickup, is globally recognized for its blend of ruggedness and Volkswagen’s signature refinement. This 2017 model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel-drive system, making it capable both on and off-road. Furthermore, this specific Amarok featured several aftermarket enhancements, including an APR Stage 1 tune, enhancing its performance beyond the stock output of 138 horsepower (140 PS / 103 kW) and 251 lb-ft (340 Nm) of torque. It also included upgraded wheels and off-road tires, an aftermarket head unit, an enhanced sound system, and a GPS navigation system, adding to its appeal for adventurous drivers.
The Amarok in the US Context: Forbidden Fruit?
Despite its modifications and unique status in the US, the Amarok’s power output is modest compared to many trucks commonly available in the American market. However, it’s crucial to remember that the Amarok was designed for markets outside the US and was never intended to directly compete with the high-horsepower, large-displacement trucks popular in North America. Its allure in the US market stems from its rarity and “forbidden fruit” status. Owning an Amarok in the USA offers a unique proposition: possessing a vehicle virtually unavailable to the general public, setting its owner apart from the crowd.
Worth the Price and the Hassle?
The $44,900 asking price for this imported Volkswagen Amarok raises questions about its value proposition. While it’s undeniably unique and offers a certain exclusivity, potential buyers must weigh this against its performance figures and the potential legal ambiguities surrounding its import status. For someone seeking a truly distinctive pickup truck and willing to navigate the complexities of owning a vehicle imported through unconventional means, this Amarok might represent a worthwhile, albeit expensive, acquisition. However, for those prioritizing outright power and straightforward legality, more conventional US-market trucks might be a more sensible choice. The question remains: Is owning a rare Volkswagen Amarok in the USA worth the premium and potential headaches?
