Volkswagen Tukan arrives in 2027 as a hybrid rival to Toro and Montana

The Volkswagen prepares the launch of the Tukan, a new medium-compact pickup truck that will arrive on the Brazilian market in 2027 to replace the Saveiro and compete directly with models such as the Fiat Toro and Chevrolet Montana. The automaker revealed the name and the first official image of the vehicle at the beginning of February, during an event at the CBF headquarters, at Rio of Janeiro, associating the presentation with sponsorship of the Brazilian football teams. The model will be produced at the São José factory of the Pinhais, at the Paraná, the same unit responsible for the T-Cross, and is part of an investment package of R$20 billion from the

The pickup adopts the MQB A0 platform, the same as the T-Cross, which guarantees a modern and efficient structure for the segment. Entre the highlights are the adoption of hybrid systems, including 48V mild-hybrid and possibly plug-in options, combined with the updated 1.0 turbo flex TSI engine or the 1.5 TSI Evo2 in more advanced configurations. Essas engines aim for greater energy efficiency and reduced emissions, in line with the current demands of the Brazilian market.

The design of the Tukan derives from the Tarok concept presented in 2018, but in an adapted and smaller version, without features such as the rear opening of the cabin for integration with the bucket. The teaser image shows details such as a gray stripe on the C column with the model name, a crease on the rear door that goes around the handle and continues to the edge of the bucket, as well as finishes in glossy black and matte santantonio. The launch color chosen was Amarelo Canário, reinforcing the connection with Brazilian identity.

Official revelation and context of the announcement

Volkswagen announced the name Tukan at an event at Rio of Janeiro, linked to the brand’s sponsorship of Confederação Brasileira of The choice of name refers to the toucan bird, a symbol of South American fauna, and seeks to create immediate identification with the local public.

The teaser shown highlighted visual elements of the rear side, including the C column and part of the bucket. The strategy reinforces the automaker’s commitment to the Brazilian market, where pickup trucks represent a significant portion of vehicle sales.

Platform and embedded technologies

The MQB A0 base allows for compact dimensions, but with optimized internal space and handling close to that of an SUV. The model incorporates advanced driver assistance (ADAS), such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control in some versions.

The 48V electrical architecture supports hybrid systems, improving consumption and performance in urban and highway use. Essas technologies position the Tukan as a more modern option in the mid-range pickup truck segment.

Local production in São José of Pinhais guarantees integration into the Brazilian supply chain and agility in delivery to the market.

Hybrid engines and efficiency

The Tukan will be one of the first domestically produced Volkswagen pickups to offer full and plug-in hybrid variants. The plug-in option allows 100% electric driving over short distances, with recharging via a conventional socket.

The expected base engine is the 1.0 TSI flex turbo, updated to work with the 48V system. Há expectation of inclusion of the 1.5 TSI in top-of-the-line configurations for greater power and torque.

These choices meet emissions standards and fuel economy preferences in Brasil, where ethanol is widely used.

Design inspired by the Tarok concept

The look maintains lines from the 2018 Tarok, with simplifications to adapt to series production and medium-compact size. Elementos as modern headlights and taillights contribute to contemporary appearance.

The concept’s lack of exotic features, such as the bucket integrated into the cabin, prioritizes functionality and affordable cost. The matte black shroud and wheels with a specific design complete the aesthetic package.

The model will have a double cabin as its main configuration, catering to family and professional use.

Positioning in the Brazilian market

The Tukan enters the segment dominated by the Fiat Toro and Chevrolet Montana, offering a similar size and versatile use proposal for cities and roads. The replacement of the Saveiro, which has not received major updates for years, renews the Volkswagen’s offering in the compact and medium pickup truck category.

The brand plans 21 launches in the América from Sul by 2028, with the Tukan as the centerpiece in the pickup truck segment. Investimentos includes R$16 billion directed to Brasil, part financed by a BNDES credit line.

Investments and regional strategy

The São José factory of the Pinhais will receive specific contributions for the production of the Tukan and other electrified models. The project is part of a larger plan that covers the development of hybrid technologies and security assistance.

Volkswagen seeks to expand its share in the pickup truck market, which represents around 18% of total vehicle sales in Brasil. Local production reduces logistical costs and strengthens the national production chain.