The Volkswagen Saveiro III (G5), specifically the Extended Cab Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX variant produced from 2017 onwards, represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s popular compact pickup truck. Positioned as a versatile option within the Saveiro lineup, this model catered to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, affordability, and a degree of stylistic flair. The “TOTALFLEX” designation indicates its flex-fuel capability, allowing operation on gasoline or ethanol (E85) blends. This variant was primarily marketed in South America, particularly Brazil, where the Saveiro has consistently been a best-selling vehicle, fulfilling the needs of both commercial and personal users. It falls within the G5 generation, a facelift of the third-generation Saveiro, bringing updated styling and features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Saveiro |
| Generation | Saveiro III (G5, facelift 2017) Extended Cab Cross |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TOTALFLEX (110/120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h (Ethanol – E85) | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph (Calculated) | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Maximum speed (Ethanol – E85) | 183 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 120 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 165 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CNXA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1116 kg (2460.36 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs) |
| Max load | 624 kg (1375.68 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 734 l (25.92 cu. ft) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 45 kg (99.21 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 400 kg (881.85 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs) |
| Length | 4497 mm (177.05 in) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 1898 mm (74.72 in) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2753 mm (108.39 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 181 mm (7.13 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.3 m (40.35 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Saveiro Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX is the CNXA engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is designed to operate efficiently on both gasoline and ethanol, thanks to its flex-fuel capability. The CNXA utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 1.6L engine produces 110 horsepower on gasoline and increases to 120 horsepower when running on ethanol. Torque figures are 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) on gasoline and 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) on ethanol. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency and reliability, making it well-suited for the demands of daily use and light commercial applications. The transmission is a standard five-speed manual, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine paired with the five-speed manual transmission delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.8 seconds, and the top speed is around 111 mph. The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. However, compared to higher-trim Saveiros equipped with larger engines, such as the 1.8L, the 1.6L feels less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s characteristics. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but it can suffer from torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively, but it doesn’t offer the same level of handling precision as sportier pickups.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Extended Cab Cross trim level offered a good balance of features and affordability. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, power steering, a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and auxiliary input, and steel wheels with hubcaps. The extended cab configuration provides limited rear seating, suitable for occasional passengers or cargo. Optional extras included power windows, central locking, a more advanced audio system, and alloy wheels. The interior featured durable, easy-to-clean plastic trim and cloth upholstery. The dashboard layout is functional and straightforward, with clearly labeled controls. Safety features were relatively basic, typically including ABS brakes and dual front airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Saveiro Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride and adequate handling for everyday use. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The steering is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, providing responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Saveiro Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX was well-received in the South American market, particularly among buyers seeking a practical and affordable pickup truck. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, flex-fuel capability, and overall reliability. Compared to the higher-trim Saveiros with larger engines, the 1.6L version offered a more economical option, albeit with slightly less performance. The 1.8L variant provided a noticeable power increase, making it a better choice for those who frequently haul heavy loads or drive on challenging terrain. However, the 1.6L’s lower price point and fuel consumption made it a popular choice for urban commuters and light-duty commercial users.
Legacy
The CNXA 1.6L engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and the Saveiro Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX remains a common sight on the roads of South America. In the used car market, these models are generally considered to be a good value, offering a practical and affordable transportation solution. Maintenance costs are relatively low, and parts are readily available. The flex-fuel capability adds to its appeal, allowing owners to take advantage of lower ethanol prices when available. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Saveiro Cross 1.6 TOTALFLEX has earned a reputation as a dependable and versatile pickup truck, cementing its place in Volkswagen’s successful Saveiro lineage.
