Volkswagen Doesn't Rule Out Pickup Truck Launch

Volkswagen Group of America CEO Kjell Gruner stated during the 2026 New York Auto Show that the company “would not rule out” launching a pickup truck. He noted that Volkswagen has previously showcased pickup concepts and specifically highlighted that B- and C-segment pickups—typically unibody vehicles—could potentially be developed using the automaker’s existing MQB platform. This segment currently includes the Ford Maverick, the Hyundai Santa Cruz (which will cease production this year), and the Ram Rampage, which has yet to go on sale in the U.S. Slate Motors also plans to enter the market with its Truck, priced from around $25,000. Volkswagen unveiled the Tarok concept in 2019 and plans to launch the Tukan pickup in South America next year. In the larger midsize pickup segment, the Honda Ridgeline competes against the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma. A next-generation Ram Dakota is expected to arrive next year, and Subaru has hinted at reviving the Baja. Volkswagen previously revealed the Atlas Tanoak concept in 2018. Gruner emphasized that both unibody and body-on-frame architectures could succeed, depending on intended use. Given that Volkswagen currently lacks a body-on-frame platform, any future pickup would more likely be based on the MQB architecture. Powertrain options could include Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, possibly paired with a hybrid system. The vehicle could be produced at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant to avoid high tariffs. Gruner also clarified that any future Volkswagen pickup would have no connection to products from the Scout brand, stressing that the two are “independent companies making their own product decisions.” Volkswagen has not sold a pickup in the U.S. since discontinuing the Rabbit Pickup (sold internationally as the Caddy) in 1984. Its Amarok midsize pickup has been available in international markets since 2010.