AUTONEWS

VW Tarok: the pickup truck built on the platform used in the T-Cross SUV that will hit the Brazilian market in 2026

Volkswagen is preparing a launch that promises to shake up the Brazilian pickup truck market: the long-awaited Volkswagen Tarok. Scheduled for 2026, the pickup truck arrives to compete for space in an increasingly competitive segment, where the Fiat Toro reigns supreme. With a robust, modern and highly versatile proposal, the Tarok could be the new darling of those looking for a practical solution for both work and leisure.

To bring the Tarok to the market, Volkswagen is not saving money. The factory in São José dos Pinhais (PR) will be the birthplace of the new pickup truck, and to this end, the automaker is investing R$3 billion (local currency) until 2028. Thus, this amount will be used to modernize the production lines and adapt the plant to meet the demand for the model. In addition to the Tarok, other well-known vehicles such as the T-Cross, Virtus, Polo and Nivus will also be manufactured by this unit. The strategy reflects Volkswagen's commitment to the Brazilian market, which has proven to be one of the most important for the brand in Latin America.

Volkswagen presented the Tarok as a concept in 2018, but many are still speculating about the details of the final version. However, some information has already been confirmed and shows the potential of the model.

Platform and dimensions...The Tarok will be built on the MQB A0 platform, the same one used in the T-Cross and Virtus. This modern architecture ensures lightness, efficiency and flexibility for the manufacture of different models.

With an intermediate size, the pickup will occupy the space between the Saveiro and Amarok, with the proposal to compete head-to-head with models such as:

-Fiat Toro: Leader in the compact-medium pickup segment.

-Chevrolet Montana: Recently launched, it brings technological appeal.

-Renault Oroch: Focused on cost-benefit.

Thus, the Tarok is expected to have dimensions similar to those of the Montana, with a look inspired by the T-Cross, both on the outside and inside. This includes robust and modern lines, as well as an interior finish that promises to please the urban public.

One of the technical differences of the Tarok will be the adoption of a rigid axle rear suspension, a system widely used in larger pickup trucks, such as the Toyota Hilux and the Ford Ranger. Therefore, this type of suspension, which includes leaf springs, is ideal for vehicles that need to support heavier loads.

In practice, this means that the Tarok will be a robust option for those who need a vehicle for work, but who also do not compromise on comfort and drivability.

The compact-medium pickup truck segment has been growing in recent years, driven by the success of the Fiat Toro. For many, the arrival of the Tarok is Volkswagen's response to this growing market. In addition, the combination of modern design, mechanical versatility and impressiveness makes it a strong candidate to win over the public.

Furthermore, the Tarok promises to be a global model, which could open doors for its export, further strengthening the Volkswagen brand on the international scene.

Thus, the Volkswagen Tarok arrives in 2026 with an ambitious mission: to overtake the Fiat Toro and become the new benchmark in the mid-size pickup truck segment. With national production, modern engines and a suspension designed to face challenges, it has everything it needs to meet the demands of the Brazilian market.

Therefore, whether for heavy work or urban use, the Tarok promises to be a versatile, efficient and innovative vehicle. Now, we just have to wait and see if VW's new product will really win over the public and threaten Toro's leadership.

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