Volkswagen Scout EV ute and SUV uncovered

Volkswagen Group has published an image that appears to be the near-production dual-cab ute and SUV for its returning Scout off-road brand, which is expected to launch by 2026.

The image emerged in VW Group’s recent Capital Markets Day presentation, and while it’s a low-resolution design sketch, it does show how the styling team has evolved the original drawings into a model range that’s set to be unveiled in 2024 or 2025.

From the image we can see that both the SUV and pick-up will share the same front-end design and feature a large amount of protective cladding around the bumpers and wheel-arches.

Up front, a thick LED light bar is also present, while the distinctive wraparound glass shown on the first design sketches looks like it will make it to the showroom.

To be produced in a purpose-built production plant in South Carolina, the Scout models will primarily be aimed at the US as VW targets a minimum 10 per cent market share in the second half of the decade.

A toughened-up version of the Volkswagen Group’s inbound Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) is expected to underpin the Scout models.

Alternatively, a bespoke ladder-frame chassis may be employed, specially designed to accommodate a battery pack while providing the protection and off-road capability demanded by owners.

When launched, the Scout pick-up will line up against other electrified utes and rugged SUVs such as the Rivian R1T and R1S, GMC Hummer EV, Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV and Tesla Cybertruck.

Other potential rivals include the smaller Rivian R2 due in 2026 and eventual EV versions of the Ford Ranger and Maverick, Volkswagen Amarok, GWM Ute, Geely Radar RD6 and upcoming utes from BYD, Hyundai and Kia.

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