The Bremach Brio 4×4 pickup truck is based on a Russian UAZ Patriot
Sure, the Bremach Brio 4×4 crew cab pickup truck is mostly based on a Russian small truck platform, but that doesn’t mean it won’t sell here – right? Actually, Bremach USA is trying to do just that. They are in the process of getting approval to sell this old-school pickup in the United States. So far, the only dealership is located in California.
Bremach was established in Italy in 1956, building small, three-wheeled utility vehicles. Later on, they began building 4X4 trucks that were lauded for their utility and capability. Over time, Bremach evolved and eventually went bankrupt. Despite this, Bremach USA survived and is now working with UAZ to bring trucks into our market. Unlike the simple Russian trucks of old, these trucks have pilfered the GM parts-bit and (look like they) have cozy-looking interiors.
What is the Bremach Brio?
The Brio is a midsize pickup truck that appears to be an old-school approach to trucks. Powered by a 150 horsepower 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, the Brio will first come with a (GM-sourced 6L50) six-speed automatic transmission. A manual option is supposed to follow later on. Very few technical details are available, including torque numbers. What we do know is that Bremach is hoping to sell this quad-cab pickup truck for $27,882.
Like its brother, the Bremach Taos SUV, the Brio will be shipped in parts to the United States, before being assembled in California. This method allows Bremach to avoid the “chicken tax” among other regulatory requirements. Bremach says they are aiming at a 2021 sales date.
Here’s how they describe their (rather conventional) 4×4 system:
“The BRIO has not been released to Dealers and is still undergoing final homologation. Those out West with a watchful eye may well spot BRIO test vehicles out on the open road while Bremach gathers the remaining compliance data.“
Bremach USA
Speculation, based on the UAZ Profi
Overseas, the UAZ Profi truck is not meant for commuters – it is a work truck. We noticed it had many components that were shared with the Patriot SUV. We looked further to get an idea of what might underpin the Bremach Brio. The UAZ “Profi” version makes about 230 lb-ft of torque, but that’s an industrial-based vehicle for overseas consumption, so we can only speculate. It has a two-speed transfer case (ratio: 2.54) and a 4.625 rear axle ratio. The Profi also has an available switch actuated, electronically rear locker, which may be built by Eaton. The Profi has an approximate 3,300-lbs payload, but the softer-sprung UAZ Patriot has a 1,800-lbs payload rating.
Bremach Brio vs. Jeep?
The Brio appears to come standard as a frame-based, crew-cab pickup truck with SOLID axles front and back. That is a similar setup to the Jeep Gladiator, but that’s where the similarities end. The Jeep has a more powerful and sophisticated off-road system – not to mention it is (most likely) safer.
We scraped together as much information as we could and produced a video based on (mostly) the Bremach Taos. Check it out!
