2024 Volkswagen Saveiro Ute Introduces Five-Speed Manual Gearbox

author: FutureCar Staff    

In the United States, manual pickup trucks are becoming increasingly rare. Only two models, the Gladiator and Tacoma, still offer manual transmissions. However, in other parts of the world, certain brands continue to sell pickups with five-speed manuals.

One such brand is Volkswagen, which has recently updated its long-running Saveiro model for 2024. Instead of adopting the-A0 platform of the Polo Track for Brazil, the redesigned Saveiro features the underpinnings of the Gol. This hybrid platform combines elements from the A04 PQ24 and A05 PQ25 platforms, making the Saveiro somewhat outdated beneath its new exterior.

The 2024 Saveiro will be available in Brazilian showrooms with a five-speed manual transmission connected to a 1.6-liter engine. The engine, known as the 1.6 MSI, is part of Volkswagen's three- and four-cylinder powerplant family. It is expected to produce 116 horsepower and 116 pound-feet of torque. The small truck is front-wheel drive and rides on 15-inch wheels across all trim levels.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2024 Saveiro features a sharper design and will be offered in five exterior paint colors. Standard features include hill start assist, four-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, and rear bumper parking sensors. Volkswagen has also increased the front ground clearance by 10 millimeters (0.4 inches) over the previous model.

The Saveiro comes in both single and double cab configurations. The single cab is available in the entry-level Robust grade, while the Trendline and Extreme grades are double cabs. The Extreme variant, inspired by crossovers, stands out with compass-like badges on the C pillars, a matte-black tailgate decal, skid plates, diamond-cut wheels, roof rails, and a sport bar. The interior features leather upholstery with Oliver Gray accents, brushed steel trim, and four audio speakers.

Additional features, such as a rearview camera, cruise control, automatic headlights and wipers, and an off-road button with hill descent control, are available with the Tech Package. Volkswagen claims that over 1.6 million units of the Saveiro have been sold in Brazil since 1982, making it a popular and reliable choice in the affordable pickup truck market.

Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen Saveiro offers a blend of practicality, ruggedness, and modern features, making it an appealing option for those in need of a versatile pickup truck.

FutureCar Staff