2024 Volkswagen Saveiro Ute Introduces New Manual Gearbox

author: FutureCar Staff    

In the United States, manual transmission pickup trucks are becoming increasingly rare. Only two models, the Gladiator and Tacoma, still 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 2024 model year. Instead of adopting the A0 platform of the Polo Track, the redesigned Saveiro features the underpinnings of the Gol, which is a hybrid between the A04 PQ24 and A05 PQ25 platforms. Essentially, the Saveiro is an older model with a new facelift.

The 2024 Saveiro 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, produces 116 horsepower and 116 pound-feet of torque. The small truck is front-wheel drive and comes with 15-inch wheels across all trims.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2024 Saveiro has a much 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 parking sensors. Volkswagen has also increased the ground clearance of the Saveiro by 10 millimeters.

The Saveiro is available in both single and double cab configurations. The single cab is exclusive to the entry-level Robust grade, while the Trendline and Extreme grades are 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.

Inside, the Saveiro offers leather upholstery with Oliver Gray touches, a rearview camera, brushed steel interior trim, and four audio speakers. The optional Tech Package adds cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlights and wipers, and an off-road button for hill descent control.

Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen Saveiro aims to be a cost-effective and robust pickup truck option in Brazil. Volkswagen claims to have sold over 1.6 million units of the Saveiro since its introduction in 1982. With its rugged appearance and various features, the Saveiro certainly looks the part of a capable and versatile pickup truck.

FutureCar Staff