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A prototype of the Volkswagen Tukan, in the single-cab version, was spotted undergoing tests in São Paulo. During these tests, the camouflaged vehicle circulated alongside units of the Fiat Strada, which the manufacturer used as a reference to evaluate dynamic development and load capacity.

Market Positioning

The choice of the Fiat Strada as a comparison parameter reinforces the objective of the new German pickup, which will be launched in 2027 to replace the Saveiro. Unlike the Saveiro, which still uses the old Gol architecture, the Tukan is the result of an entirely new project.

The entry-level version, intended for fleet use and daily heavy-duty work, was designed to compete directly in the segment dominated by the Strada, which has held the title of best-selling vehicle in the country for five years.

Mechanical Changes and Platform

According to information gathered by Quatro Rodas, the Tukan will stop using a torsion beam at the rear, adopting a setup with a rigid axle and leaf springs, a solution identical to that used by the Italian competitor. This mechanical change aims to increase operational capacity and durability under severe conditions, although it may compromise dynamic behavior when the bed is empty in urban areas, a common calculation in Brazilian work trucks.

The vehicle will be produced in São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, at the same factory where the T-Cross is assembled, and will be built on the MQB Hybrid platform, which is an evolution of the MQB-A0 base, allowing the Tukan to receive electrified powertrains.

Powertrain Options and Design

For the work-focused versions, the manufacturer plans to implement the simple 1.6 16V engine, coupled with a manual transmission. Intermediate configurations will use the 1.0 170 TSI turbo flex engine, generating up to 116 hp and 16.8 kgfm, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission. The top trims should feature the 1.5 TSI flex engine with a 48V mild hybrid system (MHEV), aiming to optimize fuel consumption and provide additional power during acceleration, putting the Tukan in competition with better-equipped models from the Chevrolet Montana and Fiat Toro.

In terms of aesthetics, the Tukan incorporates SUV elements from the brand. The front features a raised hood and a grille integrated with the headlights, inspired by the Nivus and Taos models. Laterally, it has a high beltline to suggest greater stature. At the rear, the taillights display an 'E'-shaped light signature, connected by a horizontal strip across the top of the bed cover, and the model name will be embossed on the cargo compartment panel, echoing a characteristic of the second generation of the internationally sold Amarok.

Interior and Official Launch

Internally, the pickup should follow the safety and connectivity standard of the current Volkswagen line, including multimedia systems and driver assistance packages in the most expensive variants. However, in the commercial single-cab editions, priority will be given to the resistance of the dashboard and upholstery materials, as well as maintenance cost.

The name Tukan was officially confirmed by Volkswagen in February, during an event held at the CBF headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. The choice refers to the toucan, aligning with the brand's strategy of naming its launches with references to Brazilian fauna. Previously, the manufacturer had registered options such as Acron, Airon, Arena, and Tagro with the INPI.

The official launch is scheduled for 2027, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of the Saveiro in the market. Volkswagen intends to carry out a gradual promotion through public appearances in the coming months, presenting a versatile line that meets the needs of the rural producer requiring load capacity as well as the urban consumer who uses the pickup on weekends.

Although the official launch date has not yet been set, the Jeep Avenger is estimated to arrive in stores in August, equipped with a 1.0 turbo engine. Stellantis has already begun manufacturing the vehicle in Porto Real, Rio de Janeiro, but has not disclosed the exact debut date.

Order Anticipation

Dealerships are acting preemptively, starting to register consumer interest. The AutoPapo portal contacted a retailer that confirmed it is compiling a list of people interested in the Jeep Avenger, keeping them updated on new developments.

Pre-sale Conditions

The report by Quatro Rodas magazine identified dealerships that require a deposit of R$ 1,000 to R$ 2,000 to be included in the waiting list, which is refundable if the customer cancels. It is important to note that, through official Jeep channels, there is currently no pre-sale, only a registration to receive information.

Market Positioning and Specifications

The effective launch of the Jeep Avenger is projected for August, and the start of production suggests that the brand is building stock to meet expected demand. Based on the price repositioning of the Renegade, the new model is expected to be positioned in the price range between R$ 120,000 and R$ 150,000.

The Avenger will be an entry-level SUV intended to compete against models such as Fiat Pulse, Volkswagen Taos, Renault Kardian, Nissan Kicks, and Honda WR-V. It will be offered with the 1.0 turbo T200 engine, tuned to generate 116 hp and comply with the guidelines of the federal sustainable vehicle program. All its versions will include the 12-volt mild hybrid system, technology already used by Fiat and Peugeot. Furthermore, the car will feature four-wheel disc brakes, a CVT transmission, a multimedia center with integrated embedded ChatGPT, and electronic parking brake. The most complete models will come equipped with the Level 2 ADAS package.

Platform and Architecture

The Jeep Avenger uses the CMP platform, which is already employed by Peugeot and Citroën vehicles. This architecture will serve as the basis for future Stellantis launches, including the Fiat Argo X and its derivatives.