Volkswagen Parati: The Evolution of a Brazilian Family Icon

You know those cars that stay in your memory, like icons of a generation? Volkswagen Parati was, without a doubt, one of these models. She was part of the lives of many Brazilian families during 31 years old and, therefore, its history is full of remarkable moments. Released in June 1982, the Parati became a true phenomenon in the national automobile market. Its modern visual appeal, combined with practicality, made it one of the most beloved cars of its time. station wagon from Volkswagen stood out for its longevity, but, like everything in life, time ended up putting an end to its trajectory.

The Emergence of Parati: 1982 – 1983

In June 1982, Volkswagen presented to Brazil the Parati, developed on the platform of Volkswagen Voyage. The model kept the same front end as the Voyage, and was a more practical and spacious option, ideal for Brazilian families. The Parati replaced the Variant II, which was not successful and left a gap in the station wagon market in Brazil. The model was ready to stand out in the segment, which was already being disputed by models such as the Ford Belina II, Fiat Panorama It is Chevrolet Marajo.

Right from the start, the Parati proved his competence. With 530 liters of trunk capacity, the station had one of the largest cargo bays of the time, which increased to 1,110 liters with the rear seats folded down, which made it much more practical than many competitors.

The 1.5 engine of the Passat was water cooled and delivered 65 hp of power, with 11.5 kgfm of torque. This engine, although modest by today's standards, allowed the Parati to achieve 148 km/h top speed. The Parati's design, with a large rear window, was another attraction, offering a panoramic view at the back, something rare for cars of this category at the time.

Evolution and Improvement: 1983 – 1990

In the first years of its life, the Parati underwent several improvements, mainly in its engine and design. In 1983, the model gained the 1.6 engine MD270, which offered 81 hp of power It is 12.8 kgfm of torque, associated with the exchange rate 3+E, with an “overdrive” that helped reduce fuel consumption. This engine was a big leap for the model, making it more economical and with improved performance.

In 1986, the Parati now has a manual gearbox 5 gears, replacing the previous 4. This improved driveability and fuel consumption. The following year, in 1987, the Parati received a major facelift, with a new front end, more modern headlights, plastic bumpers and new rear-view mirrors. Already in 1988, the panel was also changed, gaining more sophisticated versions in the versions GLS, which included banks Recaro and steering wheel “four balls”, as well as fog lights and aluminum wheels.

In the following years, Parati continued to evolve. In 1991, it received another face-lift, this time gaining new headlights and a more modern front end. In 1993, the 1.8 engine of the Gol GTS was introduced, increasing the Parati's power to 99 hp It is 15.3 kgfm of torque. This engine gave the model a much more interesting performance.

The “Bolinha” Generation and the Design Revolution: 1995 – 2000

In 1995, The Volkswagen launched the Parati “Little Ball”, a modern reinterpretation of the model. This version was nicknamed “Bolinha” due to its more rounded design, inspired by the new trends of the 90s. This generation brought the 2.0 engine 8v of Gol GTi, which offered 109 hp of power and more torque. But the big news was the engine 2.0 16v, which was the first engine of 16 valves present in Parati and in Goal. With 145 hp of power and 18.4 kgfm of torque, this engine was a milestone in the model's history, representing a great technical evolution.

In 1997, the engine 1.0 16v was introduced, bringing 69 hp of power, which, for the time, was considered quite efficient, although not as sporty as the versions GTi. In 1998, the engine version 2.0 was already offered with the new technology Flex, allowing consumers to fill up with ethanol or gasoline, which provided better autonomy and less environmental impact.

Parati in the New Millennium: 2000 – 2007

In the 2000s, the Parati underwent a series of updates. In 2000, Volkswagen launched the engine 1.0 16v Turbo, which produced 112 hp of power It is 15.8 kgfm of torque. This engine was a true revolution, as it represented the power of a larger displacement engine in a more compact and efficient block. This turbo version allowed the Parati to reach 191 km/h, comparable to cars with larger engines, but unfortunately, the turbo engine was marked by some durability problems due to the inadequate use of oil, which damaged the model's reputation.

In 2002, Volkswagen took another step, further modernizing the Parati with the launch of the new look “G3”, which brought straighter lines and more sophisticated headlights. The model began to be offered in versions City, Crossover, Sportline It is Comfortline, with engines ranging from 1.0 16v Turbo The 2.0 16v. The version Crossover had a higher suspension, aimed at rivals like the Fiat Palio Weekend Adventure.

In 2003, Volkswagen introduced the version Track & Field, a special model with flexible engine, raised suspension and several sporty items. The model stood out for its proposal of an urban car, but with a more robust and adventurous look, ideal for those who liked a more “off-road” style.

The Decline and End of Production: 2008 – 2013

As the years passed and the SUVs began to gain popularity, the Parati lost the shine that had made it so popular. In 2005, O Goal G4 was released, bringing changes that marked the end of the line Goal G3 and a new cycle for Volkswagen. The Parati now has simplified versions, with engines 1.6 8v It is 1.8 8v, in addition to the version TriFlex, which had a gas system, but was not successful in the market.

In 2007, the version Surf Parati was launched, with a cooler and sportier look, but the change was not enough to prevent the model's decline. With consumers' growing interest in SUVs, Volkswagen began to abandon the idea of a new generation for the Parati. The model was becoming increasingly outdated and without great appeal in the market.

In 2013, Volkswagen officially announced the end of production of the Parati, giving way to new models, such as the SpaceFox, which did not have the same impact on the market. Parati, with its iconic slogan of “The youngest station wagon in the country”, had fulfilled its role and said goodbye to the national automobile scene.

Longing for Parati and the Hope of a Return

Despite his retirement, the Volkswagen Parati continues to be fondly remembered by many Brazilians. Its history represents more than just the trajectory of a car; it symbolizes the evolution of the automobile market in Brazil. Although the Parati was left aside by Volkswagen, its strong presence in the memory of Brazilians is undeniable.

Just like what happened with the Voyage, which one day left and later returned to the market, there is a hope that one day the Parati can also return to the streets. After all, cars that make history never disappear completely. Who knows, maybe one day the “youngest station wagon in Brazil” will gain a new chapter in its long and honorable trajectory.