Name confirmed as Volkswagen starts teasing new half-ton bakkie

The production Volkswagen Tarok will arrive in 2027 as the now officially named Tukan. Picture: Volkswagen do Brasil Having received production approval just under two years ago, Volkswagen has officially started teasing its all-new half-ton bakkie in Brazil. Shown as the Tarok concept at the Sao Paulo Motor Show eight years ago, the replacement for the dated Saveiro forms part of a R$ 20-billion (R322-billion) investment for the eventual production of 21 models across South America by 2028.

Formally entering production at the São José dos Pinhais plant next year, the newcomer will take its name from the toucan bird, but spelt Tukan. “The goal was to find a unique, short, and strong name that could resonate with different cultures, sound good in various languages, and reflect the product’s mission from its inception,” Volkswagen do Brasil Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Fernando Silva, said in a translated statement. “It is born by elements of our local fauna such as the toucan, a unique bird native to the Americas, recognised for its striking presence and vibrant colours.

“It perfectly translates what this project represents for Volkswagen: a unique product, with a clear personality and designed to stand out in our region”. Similar to theTera, the Tukan is expected to ride on the MQB A0 platform, and possibly use the same choice of engines. This means the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, with and without turbocharging, plus a normally aspirated 1.6.

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While the Tarok featured a 2.0 TDI for intended export markets, the Tukan is likely to jettison this for petrol power only, while being compatible with ethanol in Brazil. Finished in Canary Yellow, the image, provided by Volkswagen do Brasil, suggests the Tukan will be a double cab-only model – a bodystyle the Saveiro could never be specified in.

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