Volkswagen's Newest SUV Could Spawn a Pickup Truck
Volkswagen’s chief engineering officer confirms an Atlas-based truck is a possibility.
The new three-row SUV is coming soon to North America, and speaking to CarBuzz, Dr. Matthias Erb said that Volkswagen is asking how it can further scale the platform developed for the Atlas, and turning the SUV into a truck could be an option. It would be similar to Honda’s recent move of using the Pilot to develop its new Ridgeline and it would give Volkswagen a model it currently lacks in the U.S. market.
The company, however, hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a body-on-frame truck, but at the same time, it’s cautious to enter the truck market. “More than 80 percent of trucks in the U.S. are full-size,” said Erb. “There are three main automakers who greatly protect this segment: Ford, GM, and Ram. They’re not just about to let someone else invade their turf.”
SEE ALSO: 2018 Volkswagen Atlas Crossover Revealed, Launches Spring 2017
It’s hard to argue against Erb, especially when you look at Ford F-150 sales compared to the Toyota Tundra or Nissan Titan.
Volkswagen does offer the Amarok mid-size pickup in overseas markets, but Erb has confirmed once again that Volkswagen doesn’t ever plan on bringing that to the U.S.
[Source: CarBuzz]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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A real truck cannot be imported, due to the effects of the "chicken tax." And, given the promise by President Trump to place a 35% import tax, a real truck must be built in the USA only.
I would rather VW brings back the Transporter, especially a camper!