New Volkswagen Saveiro Bakkie Revealed

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【Summary】Volkswagen has unveiled its new half-tonne Saveiro bakkie, but it won't be available in South Africa due to driving orientation and low volumes. The Saveiro comes in single-cab and double-cab configurations, with different payload capacities. The 2023 version features a tweaked frame, redesigned front and rear, and is powered by a 1.6-liter petrol engine. With the discontinuation of Nissan's NP200, the Saveiro could be a strong competitor in the half-tonne bakkie segment.

FutureCar Staff Aug 28, 2023 4:17 PM PT

Volkswagen has unveiled the latest version of its Saveiro bakkie, a half-tonne pickup truck. However, this new model will not be available in South Africa.

According to Volkswagen South Africa, the Saveiro is only available as a left-hand drive model, which makes it unsuitable for South African roads. The development costs for a right-hand drive model are too high, and the low volumes in South Africa do not justify the investment for VW.

The Saveiro is offered in both single-cab and double-cab configurations. The single cab has a payload capacity of 664 kg, while the double cab variant can carry slightly less, with a payload capacity of 638 kg. The Saveiro range includes the following models: Robust Single Cab, Robust Double Cab, Trendline Single Cab, and Extreme Double Cab.

The range-topping Extreme model stands out with its 15-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery in Oliver Gray, a Composition Touch multimedia system, and various exterior elements that match its Extreme nameplate.

In terms of design, the 2023 Saveiro has a modified frame compared to its previous generation. The front features a taller bonnet with distinct lines leading to the front bumper. The bumper itself has a redesigned grille with chrome trim and Tiguan-Esque headlights on either side.

The rear of the Saveiro is characterized by darkened taillights connected by a horizontal matte black stripe. The redesigned rear bumper aids the bakkie's departure angle. The Saveiro measures 4,474 mm in length, 1,521 mm in height, and 1,893 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,752 mm. It is slightly shorter and wider than Nissan's NP200, although the wheelbase is almost 200 mm shorter than the NP200.

Under the hood, the Saveiro is equipped with VW's petrol 1.6-liter naturally aspirated EA211 engine. This engine delivers 85 kW and 157 N.m of torque to the front wheels and is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The front suspension has been raised by 10 mm to improve ground clearance.

With the NP200 no longer in production, the Saveiro could be a strong contender in the half-tonne bakkie segment.