This is Volkswagen's Atlas Tanoak Pickup truck concept, named after a type of tree found on the US Pacific Coast.
The pickup which has just been unveiled at the New York International Auto Show is based on VW’s MQB platform, meaning it isn't meant to be as 'hardcore' as the Amarok. Instead - much like the Honda Ridgeline - is expected to ride more like a luxury SUV than a traditional body-on-frame pickup.
Powering the concept is a 206kw 3.6-litre V6 engine paired to an 8-speed automatic and the 4Motion all-wheel drive system. VW claims the Tanoak is capable of a 0-100kph in 8.6 seconds. While it is based on the Atlas SUV, it is mid-sized in dimensions.
Measuring 5.4 metres long (Amarok is 5.2m), it is over 2 metres wide, and stands 10mm taller than the Amarok at 1.84m. It also boasts an impressive wheelbase length of 3.26m which dwarfs the Amarok's 3.0m.
Although the Atlas Tanoak is based on the production SUV, the pickup is completely redesigned. The interior seems based on the new Touareg with two large information screens dominating the dash, while there are also some nice touches like ambient lighting has been integrated into the instrument panel and the roofline console.
Volkswagen currently has no plans to put the Atlas Tanoak into production, however – it’s using its reveal at the NYIAS to gauge the level of interest and market fit and make a decision from there.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak cost in South Africa?
The Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak is still a concept vehicle with no confirmed production plans, so there's no official pricing for South Africa yet. If it does make production, expect it to slot between the Amarok and premium SUV territory, likely around R800,000 to R1,200,000 based on its luxury positioning and V6 engine.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak worth buying?
You can't actually buy the Atlas Tanoak right now since it's just a concept, but if Volkswagen does greenlight production, it could be brilliant for buyers wanting a pickup that drives like a luxury SUV rather than a traditional bakkie. The 206kW V6 and car-like ride quality would make it perfect for weekend warriors who don't need hardcore off-road capability.
Q: How does the Atlas Tanoak compare to the Volkswagen Amarok?
The Atlas Tanoak is longer at 5.4 metres versus the Amarok's 5.2 metres, has a much longer 3.26-metre wheelbase compared to 3.0 metres, and rides on a car-based platform for better on-road comfort. However, the Amarok's body-on-frame construction makes it tougher for serious commercial work and off-road abuse.
Q: What engine does the Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak have?
The Atlas Tanoak concept packs a 206kW 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel drive, achieving 0-100kph in 8.6 seconds. This makes it significantly more powerful than most bakkies in the South African market.
Should You Buy It?
You literally can't buy the Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak right now because it's still just a concept waiting for Volkswagen to decide if there's enough interest to justify production. If you're keen on a luxury pickup that prioritises comfort over hardcore capability, keep an eye on this one, but don't hold your breath. For now, the best luxury pickup under R1,000,000 in South Africa remains the loaded Volkswagen Amarok V6 at around R850,000, which offers proven reliability and a solid dealer network. Wait and see if the Tanoak becomes reality, but buy the Amarok if you need something today.
