Volkswagen is keeping everyone on its radar with the coming Scout electric SUV. The Scout faithful are truly pumped about its return. For its part, VW continues to tease, this time with a rather dark front-end shot of the SUV. But if you check it out closely, there are a few things that stand out. And we like them all so far.

Are there enough cues from the original Scout?

As much as we wanted to digitally dial up the lighting on this teaser, it wasn’t happening. Still, we like the tall, abrupt front end which precisely mimics that of first and second-generation Scouts. And though there is some section to the body sides, they still maintain the square upright look of the originals. 

The concave section below the beltline is also a nod to the Scout II. But it also looks like the designers have worked in extra emphasis over the wheel arches. This gives the EV a more muscular presentation. We don’t mind that as a deviation from the old. 

Will the Scout have a removable top like the original?

In general, we like the wheels being pushed out slightly past the body. That may seem like a no-brainer. But some SUVs still tuck their wheel and tire combos too far toward the center of the body. Volkswagen’s only comment about the teaser is that “it has a strong stance and upright posture reminiscent of classic Scout models.”  

The other item worth noting is the roof rails. Whether this indicates that the Scout won’t have a removable top or not, it could hint at a panoramic top between the rails. Finally, we’ve highlighted the front seats in orange to show what looks to be a bench seat, something that would certainly meet with enthusiast approval. 

When is it coming out?

The other Scout news announced today is the launch of the ScoutMotors.com enthusiast forum. Its main function, besides bringing the Scout faithful together, is for communication between them and the company. It is asking for feedback as the SUV continues development. 

“We started this forum to nurture an open dialogue with our community members, to hear what they expect in all-new Scout vehicles, and to build a central location where past, present, and future Scout enthusiasts can come together as one,” Scout CEO Scott Keogh said. A more modern take on the dismal consumer clinics that many companies conduct, it gives anyone a shot at guiding the design development along, albeit in a small way. So those with a strong feeling about what the next Scout should or should not be needs to join the forum. 

VW says it will unveil its new Scout next year, with plans for production in 2024. Let’s just hope it doesn’t go as did the id.Buzz van, which suffered years and years of teasing before finally launching in Europe this year. Hey VW, you’ve got to get it together with this one, please. 

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