Volkswagen Tukan takes an unexpected turn with its hybrid heart

VW unveils the Tukan, a Brazil-built compact pickup on the MQB A0 platform with a 1.5 eTSI mild hybrid, due for premiere in late 2026.

Volkswagen has given the first look at the upcoming Tukan — a compact pickup set to replace the ageing Saveiro. The premiere is expected by the end of 2026, with series production starting in 2027 at the São José dos Pinhais plant in Brazil, according to Tarantas News.

The Tukan will be part of a sweeping Volkswagen programme for South America. By 2028 the company plans to pour 20 billion reais — roughly $3.99 billion — into the region and roll out 21 models. The teaser images show a double-cab pickup, exactly the body style the Saveiro was always missing.

Technically the newcomer is close to the Polo and the Tera: it sits on the MQB A0 platform. A 1.5 eTSI engine with a mild hybrid system is expected. Simpler trims could get the 1.0 TSI or the naturally aspirated 1.6. Transmissions — a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed Tiptronic.

The Tukan will have to take on the Chevrolet Montana, Fiat Toro, Ram Rampage, Ford Maverick and the upcoming Renault Niagara. In Brazil, Volkswagen is likely to keep a single-cab version too: without it, fighting the Fiat Strada — the country's best-selling car — would be a tall order.

The real intrigue lies in the rear suspension. Spotters caught leaf springs and drum brakes on the prototype, even though a torsion beam had previously been mooted for the upper trims. It looks like Volkswagen wants to build not a trendy toy pickup but a proper workhorse that can handle a daily load.