Volkswagen is bringing back the legendary Scout name, reimagined as a pair of all-electric off-road vehicles: the Traveler SUV and the Terra pickup truck. Set to roll off the production line in a dedicated US factory starting in 2025 and hit dealerships soon after, these rugged utility vehicles (RUVs) are generating considerable buzz.
While still in the early stages of development, teasers have given us glimpses into the design direction of the reborn Scout brand’s initial offerings. VW emphasizes their commitment to trail-readiness, aiming for competitive pricing and performance within the off-road SUV segment.
Anticipation is building as we approach the launch of the Scout SUV and its pickup counterpart. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what we know so far about these exciting electric adventurers.
Design and Styling of the 2025 International Scout
Early previews of the International Scout SUV showcase a boxy silhouette characterized by minimal overhangs, four doors, and a compact wheelbase. The design language draws clear inspiration from the classic Ford Bronco and, of course, the original International Harvester Scout, blending retro aesthetics with modern design elements. Leaked sketches further reinforce this boxy and robust appearance for both the SUV and pickup models, echoing rivals like the Rivian R1T and Bronco in their stance.
In an exclusive interview, Chris Benjamin, Scout’s Chief Design Officer, shared insights into the brand’s design philosophy: “Scout isn’t about conquering the rocks aggressively. It’s about enabling off-roading adventures while fostering community and connection. This ethos will be reflected in the design language, avoiding an overly aggressive feel and prioritizing approachability.”
These design cues have been translated into compelling renderings, showcasing a rugged electric off-roader with a distinct retro vibe. The hope is that the final production models will capture this appealing aesthetic.
The interior of the International Scout 2025 SUV remains under wraps. However, expect to see familiar elements common in off-road vehicles integrated into the cabin. Durable rubberized floor mats, resilient vinyl seating, and comprehensive waterproofing are highly anticipated features, complemented by modern technology to enhance the driving experience.
Interior Technology and Features
Breaking away from current trends within the Volkswagen group, Scout is prioritizing user-friendly controls. The interiors of the initial Scout models will feature physical, tactile buttons instead of relying solely on touch-sensitive controls or burying essential functions within complex touchscreens.
“Physical controls are crucial,” emphasized Chris Benjamin in an interview with InsideEVs. “We are committed to ensuring everyday functions are easily accessible and not hidden within menus. Intuitive, functional, and tactile interfaces are paramount. The original Scout was renowned for its reliability, and we are determined to uphold that legacy in the new models.”
Potential Names for the 2025 Scout Models
Scout engaged in an extensive trademark filing process in December 2023, registering 50 trademarks, many of which could potentially become names for their new vehicles. The extensive list includes:
- Aristocrat
- Baler
- Cultivator
- Forma
- Grade
- Harrow
- Harvester
- Rallye
- Scout 80
- Scout 800
- Scout Hauler
- Scout II
- Scout Reaper
- Scout Spirit
- Scout Terra
- Scythe
- Sno-Star
- Sportstar
- SR-2
- SSII
- Super Scout
- Swather
- Tellus
- Terra
- Terrastar
- Thresher
- Trailstar
- Travelstar
- Travelstar XL
- Traveltop
Several of these trademarks pay homage to the original International Harvester Scout lineage, such as Scout 80 and Scout 800. The iconic Scout II (also trademarked) offered trims like Terra, Traveler, and Super Scout. Historic models customized by Custom Vehicles Incorporated, located near the original Scout headquarters, also lend their names, including Sportstar, Terrastar, Trailstar, and Travelstar.
Beyond the heritage names, the list also features fresh possibilities like Cultivator, Reaper, Spirit, Harrow, and Rallye, any of which could be fitting for the new SUV or pickup models.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
The International Scout SUV and pickup will both be powered exclusively by electric powertrains. While Volkswagen possesses a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version of its MEB platform, Scout will differentiate itself by utilizing a bespoke platform engineered specifically for robust off-road performance, as confirmed by CEO Scott Keogh in a TechCrunch interview.
A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration is almost certain, and higher-performance three- or four-motor setups remain possibilities, depending on Scout’s pricing strategy. This dedicated platform could potentially be adopted by other VW Group brands in the future. Rumors suggest Audi is exploring a Mercedes-Benz G-Class rival based on the Scout SUV platform. Component sharing across the VW portfolio is expected in other areas as well.
To effectively compete with established off-road leaders like the Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, the International Scout 2025 SUV will need to incorporate serious off-road hardware, such as locking differentials and long-travel suspension. Towing and hauling capabilities, along with sufficient range for both on-road and off-road adventures, are also crucial.
Current EVs based on VW’s MEB architecture offer ranges exceeding 310 miles. The Scout SUV is anticipated to aim for a range closer to 400 miles or even greater by its debut. Power output is projected to be around 300 horsepower, positioning the Scout competitively against the base Bronco and Jeep Wrangler models.
“Our goal is to engineer vehicles that are exceptionally robust and highly capable,” stated Scout CEO Scott Keogh in an interview with InsideEVs. “This ethos was fundamental to the original Scouts, and we believe it’s essential to maintain that integrity.”
Jan Spies, Scout Motors’ head of production, added, “This platform is entirely unique and not derived from any existing platforms within the VW Group.”
Pricing and Market Positioning
Volkswagen aims to price the electric International Scout competitively within the current off-road vehicle market, targeting rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler. Scout CEO Scott Keogh indicated in the TechCrunch interview that the SUV’s starting price will be around $40,000, or “slightly above.”
The current base two-door Bronco starts just above $36,000, while the two-door Wrangler is priced approximately $3,000 lower. Four-door versions of both models are closer to the $40,000 mark. While it remains unclear if Scout will offer both two- and four-door configurations, teaser images suggest a four-door model, hinting at pricing aligned with the four-door Bronco and Wrangler variants.
Manufacturing Location
VW Group is investing in a dedicated $2 billion Scout factory in Columbia, South Carolina. This facility will be the production hub for both the Scout SUV and pickup, with potential for future models. The factory is projected to have an annual production capacity of up to 250,000 vehicles and create 4,000 permanent jobs in the region.
The Scout platform development is being undertaken in Austria in collaboration with Magna Steyr, a renowned automotive engineering and manufacturing company responsible for vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Toyota Supra. VW is investing $492 million in the joint development of the SUV and pickup, but final assembly will be exclusively in the US.
Anticipated Launch Timeline
Enthusiasts may get their first glimpse of an International Scout 2025 SUV prototype as early as late 2024. Production is slated to commence in 2025, with the vehicles expected to go on sale in late 2026. CEO Keogh has confirmed that the SUV will precede the larger electric pickup, which will follow shortly after.
Scout’s retail strategy remains to be fully defined. The National Automobile Dealers Association and state dealer associations have engaged with VW seeking clarity on the Scout brand’s distribution model in the US. Given the growing trend of online EV sales, Scout may potentially adopt a direct-to-consumer approach.
Image Gallery: International Scout Electric SUV Renderings
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