A NEW Volkswagen Amarok has been unveiled as the German brand prepares to release the second generation of its popular pick-up next year.

With LED headlights and adaptive cruise control as standard, the new model is longer than before and will be available with up to five powertrains including a V6 diesel engine.

Only one petrol option is available and that is powered by a 2.3-litre turbo engine developing 302ps which is based on a Ford block used in the Mustang and performance versions of the Focus.

The new Amarok has been developed jointly with the new Ford Ranger although the two vehicles are distinctly different in all-round design.

The Amarok will be launched as a four-door DoubleCab and as two-door SingleCab although precise detail of UK models is still to be announced.

At 5.35 metres long the new model is 9.6cm longer than its predecessor and has a wheelbase increased by 17.3cm at 3.27 metres which shortens body overhangs and improves off-road performance.

VW says four-wheel-drive will be standard in many markets and the new Amarok has been given a greater wading depth of up to 800mm - up from 500mm.

Power outputs of the diesel engines range from 150ps to 250ps with capacities running from 2.0-litre four-cylinder units to the 3.0-litre V6.

A 10-speed automatic gearbox will be fitted to most models although a six-speed automatic transmission and manual six or five-speed gearboxes will be available for various engines.

Maximum towing capacity is 3.5 tonnes and the single cab version can carry two Euro pallets.

Interior specification sees VW's Digital Cockpit being fitted with screens up to 12-inches in size while the Amarok has 20 new driver assist systems which as well as the adaptive cruise control include LED matrix headlights and a speed control which uses cameras to scan limit signs.

A portrait-style display screen is now fitted in the centre of the dashboard while hard keys are used for the off-road control systems and the volume switch on the entertainment set up.

Five trim levels will be offered with Amarok models followed by Life, Style, Panamerica and Aventura specifications.

Further details are to be announced closer to the on-sale date.