The Recommended Aftermarket VW Accessories for Your Amarok, Tiguan and Transporter

Volkswagen had mixed sales in 2024. Models that outdid expectations like the Tiguan, T-Roc and Amarok outperformed traditional hatchbacks and compact cars like the Golf and Polo, marking an industry trend of growing ute and SUV sales. VW lures buyers with quality and functional interiors, class-leading space and practicality, decent engine options (like the V6 diesel in the ute), and top-tier driving dynamics.

More good news is that there’s a lot to choose from both new and used. Aussies naturally gravitate towards the Amarok for all-around usability, the Tiguan for daily tarmac duties and the Transporter van for commercial use. All cars are covered by a huge selection of replacement and aftermarket VW accessories and parts.

Amarok Aftermarket Additions

The best-seller in VW’s lineup can be bettered with numerous protection, space, off-roading, towing and comfort additions.

Protecting your Amarok

Choose full triple-hoop bull bars, hoopless bars with winch compatibility, or more compact nudge bars based on where and how you drive. Bull bars offer improved protection off-road, are made of thick gauge steel or aluminium, shield vital engine parts in direct collisions, and can accommodate other protection basics such as side brush bars and skid plates for full protection.

These are also the foundation for essentials like recovery gear (with integrated tow points), winches and driving lights. Nudge bars are more about keeping the paintwork and radiator intact in minor scuffs, but benefit from lower weight, easier installation and lower costs. Choose these Volkswagen accessories for urban driving tasks or odd bouts on the trails.

Double Space and Carrying Capacity with Roof Racks

Flat platform racks, roof baskets and tradesmen racks are the most popular options when carrying bulky gear. Choose well-built and lightweight aluminium racks that perform in all weather conditions, can carry up to 100 kilos of gear, and come with included mounting hardware for easy installation. Aftermarket options undercut OE racks by some margin but offer good usability with details like reinforced mesh bases, raised side rails in baskets for smaller items, and the practicality of tradesmen racks in carrying building materials or attaching full-sized awnings.

Off-roading Agility and Performance

Lift kits raise the Amarok an additional 20 mm off the ground, resulting in higher clearance, improved underbody protection, and better approach and departure angles in technical terrain. They’re also necessary when fitting large-diameter off-roading tyres.

Air suspension goes for versatility across varied surfaces, balancing comfort, performance and reduced wear. Pressurised air bellows replace springs, allowing lifting or lowering your ute depending on the weight loading, where you’re driving, or the comfort you expect on rough roads. Also, bolt snorkels to filter out dust and debris or keep the engine dry in river crossings.

Safer Towing

With a rated braked towing capacity of 3500 kilos, there’s not much the Amarok can’t tow. To improve visibility in turns, prevent blind spots and help reverse the ute with a trailer, caravan or boat at the back, choose manual or electrically adjusted towing mirrors.

These increase range by over 200 mm compared to the factory mirrors, are well built, easy to install, and fold flat when not in use. Pair these with a rated tow bar with an integrated tow ball and hitch. Look for durable builds with reinforced crossbars, coated metals, included wiring and Anderson plugs for lights, brake controllers and trailer accessories.

Other popular Amarok extras are fixed or powered side steps for easier entry and exit, custom-built ute trays for work, matching toolboxes or canopies for improved organisation, bonnet and headlight protectors, and durable car mats and seat covers to keep the interior clean.

Accessorising Your Tiguan

Both the new and previous generations of the Tiguan can be accessorised with dozens of VW accessories. More popular options are throttle controllers – small electronic devices that cut out throttle lag when accelerating or overtaking. These especially suit models with diesel engines, bringing a livelier driving experience. Look for models with multiple settings, those that are easy to install and use, and have an Auto mode for VW drivers who want the best performance from their car at all times.

The SUV can also be fitted with affordable extras like bonnet protectors to prevent damage and chipping from spraying rocks and road debris. Or window shields to keep dust, rain and heat out with the windows down. Both are made of reinforced plastic, have an OE fit for cleaner looks, and are easy to install.

Lifting Practicality in the Transporter

VW’s commercial vehicles like the Transporter and Crafter Van are particularly popular in van conversions. For more practicality and convenience when exploring Australia, consider adding tradesmen racks and matching roof rack brackets to the roof channels.

The long rooflines and high weight ratings in both vehicles mean you can haul tons of camping accessories (furniture, solar setups or rooftop tents), sports gear (kayaks, bikes, surfboards and skis) and long-distance essentials like spare tyres and jerry cans. To avoid safety traps and blind spots when reversing or parking, add rear parking sensors. And consider upping comfort on longer trips with the benefits and well-damped ride of adjustable air suspension.

For all VW vehicles, go with parts and accessories from established aftermarket brands, that meet or exceed OE standards and are ADR approved. Established local brands are in high demand, offer high build quality and ensure clean fit and compatibility with all VW models.