2024 Volkswagen Saveiro Ute Unveils 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 manual transmissions.

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 for Brazil, the redesigned Saveiro utilizes the underpinnings of the Gol, a hybrid between the A04 PQ24 and A05 PQ25 platforms. Essentially, the Saveiro retains its older architecture. Although it may be considered more of a facelift than a complete overhaul, 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, is part of Volkswagen's three- and four-cylinder powerplant family and is not turbocharged. Volkswagen do Brasil promises that the four-cylinder engine will deliver 116 horsepower and 116 pound-feet of torque.

As a front-wheel drive vehicle, the Saveiro rides on 15-inch wheels exclusively across all four trims, including the range-topping Extreme. In comparison, the compact-sized Maverick comes with 17-inch wheels as standard, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers 18-inch wheels. The 2024 Saveiro features a much sharper design than its predecessor and will be available in five exterior paint colors: Crystal White, Ninja Black, Sirius Silver, Oliver Gray (exclusive to the mid-range Trendline and top-of-the-line Extreme), and Moonstone Gray (exclusive to the Extreme).

Standard features for the 2024 Saveiro include hill start assist, four-wheel disc brakes (instead of drums for the rear wheels), electronic stability control, and rear bumper parking sensors. Volkswagen has also increased the ground clearance of the Saveiro by 10 millimeters (0.4 inches) compared to its predecessor. The automaker claims that over 1.6 million units of the Saveiro have been sold in Brazil since 1982.

The Saveiro offers both single and double cab configurations. The single cab is exclusive to the entry-level Robust grade, while the Trendline and Extreme trims are available as double cabs. The Extreme variant, inspired by crossovers, features 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 Extreme trim offers leather upholstery with Oliver Gray accents, a rearview camera, brushed steel interior trim, and four audio speakers. The optional Tech Package includes cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlights and wipers, and an off-road button that engages hill descent control.

The 2024 Volkswagen Saveiro aims to be the most cost-effective and robust affordable pickup on the market. With its rugged appearance and various features, it certainly looks the part, especially in the Extreme trim. The Extreme trim borrows design elements from the Amarok, such as the compass-like badges, and also includes skid plates that resemble aluminum, diamond-cut wheels, roof rails, and a sport bar.

FutureCar Staff