Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus (VWCO) has introduced the Meteor Ultra line, which establishes itself as the most powerful model ever offered by the brand in Brazilian territory. These heavy-duty vehicles are equipped with the MAN D26 Ultra 12.4 turbodiesel engine, capable of generating up to 540 hp and 270.1 kgfm, and will be available at dealerships starting from Fenatran 2026, an event scheduled for November 9th to 13th in São Paulo.
The new truck family is presented in three distinct configurations: the Meteor 28.500 6x2, which offers 500 hp; and the Meteor 28.540 6x2 and 29.540 6x4 models, both with 540 hp. It is important to note that this new engine does not replace the Meteor 28.480, which remains the entry option in the brand's premium heavy-duty line, delivering 480 hp and 244.7 kgfm. Compared to this previous model, the Ultra provides an increase of 60 hp and 25.5 kgfm.
According to the manufacturer, the D26 Ultra engine underwent modifications to the cylinder head, water pump, combustion system, and electronic management. These adjustments aim to extend the period during which maximum torque is accessible and reduce the need for gear changes during the journey. Furthermore, the unit is integrated with Predictive Plus, a system that uses GPS data and online maps to predict route topography and optimize powertrain performance.
The automaker claims that these improvements result in diesel savings of up to 5%, along with a reduction in lubricating oil consumption. This aspect is crucial for the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), a decisive factor for fleet operators. The development process involved driving over three million kilometers, laboratory tests assisted by artificial intelligence, and operational validation at high altitudes of up to 4,800 meters, which is relevant for Andean markets.
Although VWCO has not yet disclosed the complete torque curve of the D26 Ultra or the start and end RPMs of the maximum torque range, the company announced that these technical details will be revealed during the commercial launch at Fenatran.
Regarding the interior, the instrument panel has been updated to incorporate over 100 functionalities, and the multimedia center has been expanded to 10 inches, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Volks Connect application has also received new capabilities, allowing remote control of items such as pneumatic suspension, windows, and engine rotation via mobile phone, in addition to including a voice assistant.
The technology of the D26 Ultra is not limited to the Meteor line; the Constellation line also receives four new models: the 20.500 4x2 and 25.500 6x2 road models, and the 33.500 and 33.540 6x4 models intended for off-road operations. The pinnacle of this new offering is the Constellation 33.540 6x4, designed for the agricultural sector, boasting a Gross Combination Weight Rating (PBTC) of 91 tons and a maximum towing capacity of 125 tons. With these additions, the automaker now offers a total of seven heavy-duty trucks equipped with the new generation of the engine.

