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Volkswagen Reveals Tukan Pickup & Teases Most Powerful Amarok Yet
Volkswagen has officially revealed the Tukan, an all-new pickup truck developed specifically for South America, while also giving the public its first official look at the next-generation Amarok. The two models mark the beginning of what Volkswagen calls its "pickup offensive," a strategy aimed at expanding its presence in one of the region's fastest-growing vehicle segments.
The announcement took place during the Festa do Peão de Barretos in Brazil, where Volkswagen displayed the Tukan without camouflage for the first time. At the same event, the company showcased a camouflaged prototype of the upcoming Amarok, confirming that the new midsize truck will become the most powerful Amarok they have ever produced.
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Tukan Is Volkswagen’s New Compact Pickup
The Tukan is a completely new model rather than a facelift of an existing truck. It was designed, engineered, and tested in South America and will be built at Volkswagen's plant in São José dos Pinhais, Brazil. Production is scheduled to begin ahead of a market launch in the first half of 2027.
Volkswagen will offer the Tukan in both single-cab and double-cab configurations, targeting both commercial buyers and lifestyle customers. The single-cab version focuses on work applications with a larger cargo bed, while the double-cab model is aimed at drivers looking for a more versatile everyday pickup.
The truck rides on Volkswagen's MQB platform, making it the first pickup from the brand to use the architecture. To improve hauling capability, engineers paired the platform with a rear leaf-spring suspension, a setup commonly used in work trucks. Volkswagen says the Tukan will offer payload capacity exceeding 700 kilograms, although complete specifications have not yet been released.
Expected Engines & Technology
Volkswagen has not confirmed the full powertrain lineup, but reports indicate several engine options are planned.
Expected choices include:
- A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine for entry-level work models
- A 1.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine
- A 1.4-liter TSI engine for mid-range trims
- A new 1.5-liter TSI Evo2 mild-hybrid system is expected to power higher-end versions
The company also says the pickup has already completed more than 2 million kilometers of testing across South America before its public debut.
Amarok Gets Its First Preview
Alongside the Tukan, Volkswagen revealed the first official teaser of the next-generation Amarok. Although the truck remains heavily camouflaged, the company confirmed several key details.
The new Amarok will arrive in 2027, continue to be produced in Argentina, and feature electrified powertrains. Volkswagen also says it will be the most powerful Amarok ever built, though final engine specifications remain under wraps.
Prototype images reveal a redesigned front fascia with slimmer LED headlights, a wider grille, and styling that follows Volkswagen's latest design language. Testing is currently underway across a variety of urban, rural, and off-road environments throughout South America.
Why These Pickups Matter
Pickup trucks have become one of the fastest-growing vehicle segments in South America. According to Volkswagen, pickups accounted for roughly 10% of the Brazilian vehicle market in 2015, but that figure has doubled to around 20% by 2025. The company believes this growth creates an opportunity to expand its lineup beyond traditional passenger cars and SUVs.
With the Tukan targeting compact pickup buyers and the next-generation Amarok strengthening Volkswagen's midsize truck lineup, the company is preparing for a major push into the market ahead of 2027. More information, including pricing, complete specifications, towing figures, and trim levels, is expected closer to each model's official launch.
For more industry updates, visit our automotive news section.