The International Scout was launched in 1961 as a rival to the Jeep CJ. Built by International Harvester, the compact 4WD combined simple mechanics with real off-road ability. It was offered in soft-top and hardtop versions, with the Scout 80 and later Scout 800 shaping its early reputation as a rugged utility vehicle for farms, worksites and recreation.

By 1971, the second-generation International Scout II arrived with a longer wheelbase, V8 power and more body styles including a pickup and wagon. The Scout II stayed in production until 1980, gaining updates like Dana axles and improved safety features. Overseas, the Scout was sometimes sold under the International Traveler and Terra names, reflecting its shift into a broader SUV role during the decade.

Although production ended in 1980, the International Scout remains a key reference point for modern off-roaders. Restorers and collectors keep the model alive, while Navistar, the successor to International Harvester, has signalled interest in reviving the Scout name under Volkswagen’s ownership. This positions the Scout as both a classic and a potential future EV SUV.

The line-up currently starts at $2,640 for the Scout II (4x4) Traveltop and ranges through to $4,070 for the range-topping Scout II (4x4) Traveltop.