The Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Edition recently demonstrated strong off-road capability in a test conducted by CarExpert at The Springs 4×4 Park in Queensland. Driven by park owner Lucas Bree, the vehicle successfully ascended the notorious “Beer O’Clock Hill,” a challenging climb designed to rigorously evaluate vehicle performance in demanding conditions.
The Challenge: Beer O’Clock Hill
Beer O’Clock Hill is not a casual trail. Its steep incline, deep ruts, and slippery surfaces make it an ideal proving ground for 4×4 vehicles. The climb assesses not just raw power, but also how well a vehicle manages drivetrain response, traction control, and overall stability under extreme pressure. Many vehicles struggle to maintain forward momentum without excessive wheelspin, making the hill a true test of capability.
Amarok’s Performance: Composed Ascent
The Amarok 10 Deserts Edition performed notably well, appearing unusually composed throughout the ascent. The vehicle’s factory lift and fitted all-terrain tires significantly contributed to its stability, reducing underbody stress common on this type of terrain. The Amarok maintained consistent forward progress even when navigating difficult moguls, relying on its electronic systems to manage traction when a rear wheel lifted.
Lucas Bree noted that the vehicle was “fully unloaded” at critical moments, yet the traction control system effectively shuffled torque to maintain momentum without dramatic wheelspin. By engaging four-low, the rear diff lock, and selecting Slippery mode with manual transmission control, the driver optimized gear selection and kept the engine within its peak torque range.
Beyond Hardware: Calibration and Control
The Amarok’s success wasn’t solely down to hardware. Effective use of drive modes and vehicle calibrations proved crucial. The Amarok consistently found traction and made measurable progress, even when forced to adjust its line mid-climb. Unlike some other vehicles tested, the Amarok cleared obstacles without excessive damage to undercarriage components.
Clear Endorsement
Upon reaching the summit, Lucas Bree gave a strong endorsement, stating that the Amarok felt “confident” and deserved a “big tick” from Volkswagen. The vehicle didn’t just survive the test, it delivered a top-class result on one of the most unforgiving off-road challenges in the region.
On a climb as brutal as Beer O’Clock Hill, the Amarok’s controlled ascent is a clear indicator of its off-road prowess and a testament to Volkswagen’s tuning and engineering.
