Scout Motors website teases Volkswagen’s new electric off-roader

Teaser images for the revived Scout four-wheel-drive have been posted on the brand’s newly-launched website this week.

Volkswagen Group is bringing back the Scout as an electric alternative to the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, with prototypes to be unveiled as early as 2023.

After turning up the brightness on the shadowy teaser image, it does appear as if the SUV prototype has a front bench seat in the first row – a throwback to the original Scouts built between 1961 and 1980 – though it’s not clear how well a front bench seat would perform in today’s front and side-impact vehicle safety tests.

It also appears as if the Scout could get 'safari' windows along the edge of the roof, similar to those seen on the Land Rover Defender and Ineos Grenadier – though there was no suggestion of these panels in early sketches released back in May 2022.

While production isn’t expected to begin until 2026, the company has set up an online forum on the website to bring together Scout enthusiasts, as well as providing a ‘suggestions box’ for users which will act like a direct feedback hotline.

MORE: Volkswagen confirms Scout electric off-road SUV and pick-up

"Since 1980, these owners and fans have kept Scout alive. We're excited to be a part of the community and want to foster interaction and exchange as we reimagine this American icon," said Scott Keogh, CEO of Scout Motors.

"We started this forum to nurture an open dialogue with our community members, to hear what they expect in all-new Scout vehicles, and to build a central location where past, present, and future Scout enthusiasts can come together as one."

With the new-generation Scout set to be designed and manufactured in the US, it’s not yet known whether there will be a right-hand-drive model built for markets such as Australia.