2024 Volkswagen Saveiro Ute Introduces New Manual Gearbox

author: FutureCar Staff    

In the United States, manual transmission pickup trucks are becoming increasingly rare. Currently, only two models, the Gladiator and Tacoma, offer manual options. 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 for the year 2024. Instead of adopting the-A0 platform of the Polo Track for Brazil, the redesigned Saveiro features the underpinnings of the Gol, which is a hybrid between the A04 PQ24 and A05 PQ25 platforms. Essentially, the Saveiro remains quite old underneath its new exterior. The 2024 model will be available in Brazilian showrooms with a five-speed manual transmission connected to a 1.6-liter engine. This engine, known as the 1.6 MSI, is part of the Gol EA211 family, which includes three- and four-cylinder powerplants. Volkswagen do Brasil promises that the four-cylinder engine will deliver 116 ps and 16.1 kgfm of torque, equivalent to 114 horsepower and 116 pound-feet.

The Saveiro is a front-wheel drive truck and will come equipped with 15-inch wheels across all four trims, including the range-topping Extreme. In comparison, other compact-sized trucks like the Maverick offer 17-inch wheels by default, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with 18-inch wheels as standard. The 2024 Volkswagen Saveiro will be available in five exterior paint colors: Crystal White, Ninja Black, Sirius Silver, Oliver Gray (only for the mid-range Trendline and top-of-the-line Extreme), and Moonstone Gray (exclusive to the Extreme).

The 2024 Saveiro will come with several standard features, including hill start assist, four-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors. Volkswagen has also increased the ground clearance of the Saveiro by 10 millimeters (0.4 inches) compared to its predecessor. The German automaker boasts that over 1.6 million units of the Saveiro have been sold in Brazil since 1982.

The Saveiro will be available in both single and double cab configurations. The single cab option is exclusive to the entry-level Robust grade, while the Trendline and Extreme grades will come with double cabs. The Extreme variant 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 of the Extreme features leather upholstery with Oliver Gray accents, brushed steel trim, and four audio speakers. Additionally, the Tech Package offers cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlights and wipers, and an off-road button that engages hill descent control.

Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen Saveiro presents itself as a rugged and cost-effective pickup truck option. Inspired by crossovers, it combines practicality with a stylish design and offers a manual transmission for those who prefer a more engaging driving experience.

FutureCar Staff