Ford and Volkswagen have shared 2023’s International Pick-up Award (IPUA), with each manufacturer now securing a hat trick of titles.

Ford won the title with the previous generation Ranger in 2013 and 2020, while the earlier Amarok gave Volkswagen titles in 2011 and 2018. While each has won individually twice before, the close relationship between the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok — which are both built on the same production line at Ford’s Silverton facility in South Africa — ensured that this year’s award was split between the two models.

“Following the IPUA 2023 Group Tests, held in Greece last month, it was impossible to separate the two models from each other,” explained Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the IPUA jury.

Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Pro Europe, said: “We are delighted that the Ford Ranger has been recognised by the IPUA jury for the third time, which is testament to its enduring appeal as Europe’s favourite pickup for the past eight years. The new Ford Ranger has the most comprehensive series choice yet, offering customers the on-road refinement and off-road capability to suit work days and weekends. It’s built ready for work and play.”

Karl Bernqvist, member of the brand management board responsible for procurement at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, added: “The Amarok is a pickup that delivers reliable performance both on and off the road. It impressed the jury in both cases. The International Pick-up Award for 2024/2025 means the Amarok has already achieved the ‘treble’ in just 14 years of production. This demonstration of trust honours the entire team at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. We would like to say thank you!”

Phil Huff
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