The 2028 Scout Traveler SUV is set to hit American roads in 2027, and it’s already turning heads with its rugged, retro-inspired design and serious off-road chops. Built by Scout Motors, a new brand under the Volkswagen Group, this electrified revival of the iconic International Harvester Scout is gunning for adventure-seeking middle-aged men who crave a vehicle that can handle both the daily grind and weekend escapes to the wild. With a concept recently unveiled showcasing a decked-out off-road package, the Traveler is poised to compete with heavyweights like the Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, and even the electric Rivian. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new SUV and why it’s built for guys who live for the open trail.
A Throwback Design with Modern Muscle
The Scout Traveler channels the spirit of the original International Harvester Scout, a tough-as-nails off-roader produced from 1960 to 1980. But this isn’t just a nostalgic rehash. The 2028 Traveler blends that classic boxy look with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology and an optional gasoline range extender, making it a versatile choice for men who want both eco-friendly performance and long-range capability. Scout Motors has painted the concept in a stunning olive green metallic that screams adventure, evoking images of dusty trails and remote campsites. It’s the kind of color that looks just as good parked in a suburban driveway as it does covered in mud at Moab.
Image credit: Scout
Unlike many modern SUVs that prioritize sleek, urban styling, the Traveler is unapologetically rugged. Its body-on-frame chassis and solid rear axle give it the durability to tackle tough terrain, while front and rear mechanical locking differentials ensure power gets to the wheels that need it most. This setup is a nod to traditional off-roaders, setting it apart from competitors like the Rivian, which uses a unibody design. For guys who grew up wrenching on trucks or dreaming of overlanding, the Traveler’s old-school engineering feels familiar yet fresh.
Off-Road Package: Built for the Backcountry
Scout Motors recently showed off a Traveler concept loaded with off-road accessories, and it’s clear they’re aiming to capture the hearts of men who spend their weekends at off-road parks or exploring remote trails. The off-road package is designed to boost the SUV’s “durability, clearance, and recovery,” according to Scout’s design team. While they haven’t spilled all the details, the concept vehicle offers a glimpse of what’s to come, and it’s packed with features that make it ready for serious adventures.
The Traveler’s off-road package includes tucked-up front and rear bumpers to improve approach and departure angles, essential for navigating steep inclines and rocky descents. A front-mounted winch is a game-changer for getting unstuck in sticky situations, whether you’re bogged down in mud or climbing over boulders. Rock sliders protect the vehicle’s sides from damage on rough trails, while a lift kit increases ground clearance—already over one foot in the standard model—to keep the undercarriage safe from rocks and ruts. The concept also sports 18-inch wheels with chunky, high-sidewall tires, likely 35-inchers, which provide better grip and cushioning on uneven terrain.
A roof rack and a full-size spare tire mounted on a rear carrier round out the package, ensuring you’ve got space for gear and a backup tire for those inevitable trail mishaps. These accessories aren’t just for show—they’re built for guys who pack up their fishing rods, camping gear, or hunting equipment and head out to places where cell service is a distant memory. Whether you’re hitting the Rubicon Trail or exploring backcountry roads, the Traveler’s off-road package is designed to keep you moving.
Power and Performance: Electric Might with a Gas Option
The Scout Traveler comes in two flavors: a fully electric model with a projected range of 350 miles and a plug-in hybrid “Harvester” model with a gasoline range extender that pushes the range to over 500 miles. For middle-aged men who love the idea of an EV but worry about running out of juice in the middle of nowhere, the Harvester option is a game-changer. It combines the quiet, powerful performance of an electric drivetrain with the peace of mind of a gas-powered backup, making it ideal for long trips to remote destinations.
The Traveler’s dual electric motors deliver power to all four wheels, giving it the traction needed for slippery trails or snowy backroads. Scout claims the SUV can hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, which means it’s not just a trail beast but a thrill ride on pavement, too. With a towing capacity of over 7,000 pounds and a payload rating of nearly 2,000 pounds, this SUV can haul your boat, camper, or ATV with ease. Whether you’re towing a trailer to the lake or loading up gear for a hunting trip, the Traveler has the muscle to get the job done.
The standard model is already a capable off-roader, with the ability to ford three feet of water—a must for crossing streams or navigating flooded trails. The off-road package likely boosts this capability even further, thanks to the lift kit and larger tires. Multiple suspension options, including an off-road-tuned setup or air springs with active damping, let you fine-tune the ride for comfort on the highway or aggression on the trails. A front sway bar disconnect is also available, improving wheel articulation for better grip on uneven surfaces.
Taking on the Competition
The Scout Traveler is stepping into a crowded ring, but it’s got the specs to stand toe-to-toe with the best. The Jeep Wrangler has long been the go-to for off-road enthusiasts, but its gas-powered engines can’t match the Traveler’s electric torque or eco-friendly credentials. The Land Rover Defender offers luxury and capability, but its high price tag puts it out of reach for many. The Rivian R1S, another electric off-roader, is a direct competitor, but its unibody construction and higher starting price (around $75,000) make the Traveler’s body-on-frame design and sub-$60,000 starting price a compelling alternative.
Scout’s focus on customizability sets it apart, too. The off-road package is just the beginning—Scout plans to offer a range of accessories like auxiliary lighting, off-road bumpers with recovery points, and heavy-duty winches. These options let buyers build a Traveler that’s tailored to their specific adventures, whether that’s overlanding across the desert or crawling through rocky canyons. For men who take pride in personalizing their rigs, this level of flexibility is a big draw.
A Cabin Built for Adventure
While Scout hasn’t revealed full details about the Traveler’s interior, they’ve hinted at a premium cabin designed for five passengers. The concept includes a Community UX infotainment system, which blends modern tech with analog touches like a compass and mechanical door handles. This mix of old and new appeals to guys who appreciate the simplicity of classic trucks but still want modern conveniences like touchscreens and smartphone integration. The cabin is also practical, with a spacious frunk and rear cargo area for stowing gear, tools, or groceries.
Why Middle-Aged Men Will Want It
For American men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, the Scout Traveler hits all the right notes. It’s tough enough to handle the roughest trails, versatile enough for daily driving, and packed with enough tech to feel modern without being overwhelming. The retro design taps into nostalgia for the trucks and SUVs of their youth, while the electric powertrain and optional range extender offer a forward-thinking solution for today’s world. Whether you’re a weekend warrior escaping to the mountains or a dad hauling kids and gear around town, the Traveler is built to fit your life.
The sub-$60,000 starting price makes it accessible compared to pricier rivals, and the promise of a robust off-road package means you can spec it out for serious adventures without breaking the bank. Scout’s focus on durability, recovery, and clearance ensures the Traveler can keep up with your wildest plans, from camping in the Rockies to exploring the deserts of the Southwest.
The Road Ahead
Scout Motors plans to start production in 2027, with the Traveler hitting dealerships as a 2028 model. While pricing and trim details are still 12-18 months away, the buzz around the off-road package suggests Scout is listening to what adventure-seekers want. Posts on X show excitement from fans and prospective buyers, with many praising the Traveler’s rugged design and versatile powertrain options. As Scout continues to refine the concept, expect more details on accessories, colors, and performance specs to emerge.
For middle-aged men who dream of hitting the trails in a vehicle that’s as tough as they are, the 2028 Scout Traveler is shaping up to be a serious contender. It’s not just a revival of a classic name—it’s a bold statement that electric off-roaders can be just as capable, and maybe even more exciting, than their gas-powered counterparts. Whether you’re planning to conquer Moab, tow a camper to your favorite lake, or just enjoy the quiet power of an EV on your daily commute, the Traveler is ready to take you there.
