Everything We Know About Volkswagen’s Scout

Volkswagen is reviving the Scout, a beloved American off-road icon, as part of a bold shift into the American electric vehicle (EV) market. The manufacturer plans to release two Scout trims: the Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck. Designed and manufactured in America, these EVs are built to meet the needs of adventure-lovers who require capability without compromising on modern technology.

The Scout Brand Revival: Volkswagen’s American EV Strategy

The original International Harvester Scout was introduced in November 1960 and quickly won over outdoor enthusiasts. From 1960 to 1980, 532,674 Scouts were sold, creating a fanbase that’s still passionate today.

The Scout’s return began when Volkswagen bought Navistar, which had inherited Scout from International Harvester. Volkswagen recognized the value of this forgotten brand and, in 2022,  established Scout Motors as its American-focused division. This will enable it to compete with American trucks while preserving its European identity elsewhere. Engineers in Novi, Michigan, are designing these vehicles, and a brand-new factory in Blythewood, South Carolina, will build them. This facility plans to produce 180,000 to 200,000 vehicles yearly, with the potential to double that number if Americans embrace the Scout.

Two Models: Scout Traveler SUV and Terra Pickup

The reintroduction of the Scout offers two options that share core elements but serve different needs. Reservation data shows that 70% of customers want the Traveler SUV, while 30% prefer the Terra pickup.

If you have a family or are a weekend warrior who needs space for people and gear, the Traveler is a perfect fit. It will seat up to seven, tow 7,000 pounds, and be able to carry nearly 2,000 pounds of cargo. A cabana top that you can open will also be available for this trim.

If you’re looking for a work truck, the Terra pickup delivers with its 5.5-foot bed, which includes two 120V outlets and one 240V outlet. It’ll tow over 10,000 pounds and match the Traveler’s payload capacity. Unlike many EVs today, both Scouts feature a rugged body-on-frame construction rather than a car-like unibody design.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The designers found inspiration for the body in the 1970s Scout II. The C-pillar glass and the five-sided window shape directly reference the original design. These intentional styling choices give the Scout a look that sets it apart from ordinary SUVs and trucks.

The Terra pickup stretches 229.2 inches long with a 148.6-inch wheelbase. It stands 77.7 inches tall and measures 79.9 inches wide (91.6 inches if you include the mirrors). With the Traveler SUV, you have the option of 207.9 inches long with the spare tire attached to the rear or 190.9 inches without it. The four-door setup features a split rear gate so you can easily load gear.

The Scout doesn’t only have a rugged appearance; it’s built to be tough, with more than 12 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford up to 3 feet of water. The standard 33-inch tires provide exceptional grip, and you can upgrade to factory 35-inch all-terrains. It also has a solid rear axle, mechanical lockers on both axles, and a front sway bar that you can disconnect when driving bumpy trails.

Battery, Range, and Charging

The Scout is offering two power options based on how you’ll use your vehicle. The all-electric models aim for a range of 350 miles on a single charge, using nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries. They can go from 0 to 60 in just 3.5 seconds and generate nearly 1,000 lb-ft of torque through a four-wheel-drive system that distributes power where you need it most. The 800-volt electrical system charges up to 350 kW faster than most EVs on the road today.

The Scout uses the North American Charging Standard port, so you can plug into the massive network of more than 25,000 fast chargers across the continent. With its range, power, and charging flexibility, you can power your campsite or home directly from the truck’s battery.

Pricing and Trim Levels

Base models of both the Traveler and Terra are projected to start under $60,000. These models will preserve standard features but skip the extras. After federal and state incentives, you might even drive away in a Terra for as little as $50,000.

Plenty of options are available on the Scout, such as a modern center console setup or an old-school front bench seat that accommodates three. Choose your own colors, materials, and add-ons to make your Scout uniquely yours. If you’re a trail rider, you can opt for the off-road package with all-terrain tires, special shocks, and a locking front and rear differential to handle nearly any terrain.

Your Next Adventure Awaits With the Volkswagen Scout

The Scout comeback isn’t just another EV launch; it’s American automotive history turning a new page. These trucks deliver off-road power, impressive towing capacity, and the flexibility of either all-electric or range-extended power. The combination of retro design and modern electric technology creates something special that honors the Scout’s original appeal while embracing progress.

No-nonsense pricing and a focus on capability over luxury set the Scout apart in a growing EV market. Contact us at Capistrano Volkswagen for the latest updates on this upcoming model and to see how an EV might fit your adventurous lifestyle.