VW Gol Furgão: the cargo version of Brazil's best-selling car

O Volkswagen Gol, with more than 8,500,000 units sold over 42 years of production, is undoubtedly one of the greatest icons in the history of Brazilian automotive. Launched in May 1980, the Gol emerged as a revolution in terms of design and proposal, especially for the Brazilian public. Although the first generation had some performance limitations, its adaptation to the market was inevitable, and soon the Gol consolidated itself as the best-selling car in the country. But, in addition to the passenger versions, the Gol also had a special version, aimed at cargo transport: O Goal Van.

The Gol Furgão became a practical and versatile option for those who needed a light cargo vehicle for urban use. For decades, it was a reference for the transportation of small volumes, with a load capacity considerable for its time, in addition to having a simple and functional design. In this article, we will explore the history of the Gol Van, its features, and its relevance in the commercial vehicle market until 2025.

The History of the Volkswagen Gol

When the Volkswagen Gol was launched, it was not only a response to the growing demand for affordable and economical cars, but also an adaptation of the Brazilian market to the new global automotive scenario. Its modern design for the time made it quickly embraced by consumers. However, its journey was not always easy, especially with the boxer engine that equipped the initial versions, inherited from beetle. Performance was nothing impressive, and the top speed was only 124 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h in more than 30 seconds were not compatible with the expectations of the time. However, the Gol was improved over the years, and from 1981, with the launch of the Goal 1600, the model finally began to show its true capabilities, reaching the milestone of 66 hp of power.

The Gol line has undergone several updates over the years, with improvements in design, performance and, of course, reliability. In 1984, the water engine replaced the air engine, which resulted in greater performance and better fuel consumption. In 1986, the Gol Furgão made its debut as a version aimed at cargo transportation, a model that would gain many fans in the following years.

The Gol Van and its Practical Proposal

O Goal Van emerged as Volkswagen's response to the need for a light commercial vehicle. Without the rear seat and with the flat floor, the model offered a large cargo space – over 1,200 liters – an ideal solution for transporting small goods in urban areas. In addition, the load capacity of 420 kg It met the needs of businessmen and traders who needed a robust yet economical vehicle for the city.

The separation of the cargo compartment of the passenger cabin was made of a metal plate, a solution that guaranteed the driver's safety and also allowed the transportation of products without risks. back cover was completely closed, but could optionally be equipped with a glass window.

Despite not being a high-performance car, the Gol Furgão still offered interesting numbers for those who needed an agile car for everyday use. 0 to 100 km/h happened in 17.9 seconds, and the maximum speed was of 139 km/h in the ethanol version. A reasonable performance, considering the model's proposal. Volkswagen focused on its cost-benefit, with an affordable price and the promise of low fuel consumption.

Changes Over the Years

Over the decades, the Gol Van has undergone several mechanical and design updates, always keeping up with the changes in the conventional Gol model. In 1985, for example, the Gol line began to be offered with AP-600 engine, which was more powerful and efficient, offering up to 90 hp in the ethanol version. From 1986 onwards, the AE-1600 engine became the most common option for the Gol Furgão, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.

O panel of the Gol Van, simple but functional, included the famous temperature thermometer and, in more modern versions, it now has a center console more sophisticated. Although the model was Spartan, it stood out for its practicality and design, which, despite being simple, was quite efficient.

Conversion to Passenger Version

Over the years, many Goal Van were converted to passenger versions. The removal of the loading platform and the addition of side windows It is back seat transformed these commercial vehicles into hatchbacks family members. This conversion further increased the popularity of the model, creating a market for used cars quite robust.

However, due to constant use for work, many Gol Furgãos ended up suffering wear and tear, which made it difficult to keep them in good condition. This, on the one hand, helped to create a preparation culture of vehicles for drag racing championships, since the Van version was lighter and had great potential for modification.

According to the Denatran, there are currently about 3,528 units registered in Brazil, but many of these cars have been modified, which makes it difficult to accurately assess how many are still in their original condition.

The Gol Van in 2025: A Living Legend

In 2025, Volkswagen no longer manufactured the Gol Furgão, but the model continues to be an icon in Brazil, especially in the car market. light commercial vehicles. Although the conventional Gol was discontinued in 2023, the Van's legacy remains alive, whether in used models or in the car modifications for competitions. In addition, more modern versions of the Volkswagen Saveiro continue to serve the cargo market, maintaining the spirit of the Gol Furgão, but with more advanced technologies.

Today, the Gol Van is still admired for its versatility, low maintenance cost and for being a accessible vehicle for small businesses. Some well-preserved examples continue to be sought after by collectors, who know the rarity of these models and the history they represent.

Conclusion

O Goal Van was more than just a cargo version of Brazil's best-selling car. It was a true revolution in the light commercial vehicle market, offering a practical and economical alternative for urban freight transport. Although the model has been discontinued, its legacy remains as a reference for drivers and companies that need a reliable vehicle and of low cost.

The Gol Van version has become a legend in the Brazilian market, a symbol of practicality, economy It is adaptability. If you are looking for a well-preserved example or a project to modify, the Gol Furgão continues to be a choice that will certainly make history again, whether on the streets or on the tracks.