Over 40 years after its disappearance, the International Harvester brand remains legendary in North America, partly due to the Scout, which is among the world’s earliest SUVs. Volkswagen has revived the Scout name under Scout Motors, introducing two new models: the Terra pickup and Traveler SUV. Both vehicles utilize a new electric vehicle platform and are set to start production in 2027, with pricing anticipated to be under $60,000 before incentives.
Scout Motors emphasizes that its primary goal is to capture the essence of the original Scout, which was sold by International from 1961 to 1980 in various formats. Although the Traveler and Terra feature modern designs, they incorporate curved lines and a “black mask” on the front and rear fascias to echo the original models. These new models also feature separated bumpers and upward-angled side windows reminiscent of their predecessor.
Modern design elements such as a thin LED strip surrounding the “grill” and rectangular headlights bisected by slim daytime running lights are present. According to Scout, the designs currently shown represent 85% of what will appear in production versions.
The original Scout and International 150 pickup were known for their practicality and durability, traits the new models aim to retain. Both models have body-on-frame construction with a solid rear axle and front and rear locking hubs for off-road purposes. They offer a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds, with towing capacities of 7,000 pounds for the Traveler and 10,000 pounds for the Terra pickup. All-wheel drive is powered by front and rear electric motors.
The vehicles are designed to meet the needs of both functional and outdoor-oriented users and can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.5 seconds, supported by an estimated 1,000 pound-feet of torque and a four-wheel-drive system. The top speed remains unspecified.
The base trim package offers a range of up to 350 miles, while the extended range version acts effectively as a hybrid, reaching up to 500 miles with a gas-powered range extender. Charging times have not been disclosed, but the models will use an 800-volt architecture supporting charging speeds up to 350 kW. Features include bidirectional charging, vehicle-to-home capabilities, over-the-air updates, and remote diagnostics.
The interiors are a departure from the simplicity of original models, boasting luxurious and high-tech features like a digital cluster, large displays, a “responsive” infotainment system, and high-resolution backup cameras. Physical toggles and dials for climate and control functions are included, with seats and panels featuring a combination of brown leather, fabric, and a wood-like material.
Both vehicles include a front storage space with 120-volt and USB-C outlets, capable of accommodating golf clubs, gym bags, and small coolers. The Terra’s 5.5-foot bed features 120- and 240-volt outlets suitable for tools and compressors.
The Traveler model features a split tailgate and offers two types of roofs: a Cabana top with retractable panels for open-air driving or a glass roof with a powered shade. Both models offer a front bench seat to increase passenger capacity.
Much like the approach of Tesla, Scout Motors plans to sell vehicles directly to consumers, bypassing traditional dealerships. The company promises a streamlined purchasing process with transparent pricing, alongside managing sales, delivery, and service. Customers can view the vehicles at dedicated “Scout Workshop” retail and service locations.
Both models are designed and engineered in Michigan and will be manufactured at a new facility in Columbia, South Carolina, employing approximately 4,000 workers. Production will commence in 2027, with vehicles slated to enter the market for the 2028 model year. According to Scout Motors, prices will begin at under $60,000, and reservations are currently open.
