Volkswagen Up! UK Road Test: Fuel-Sipping, Premium City Car

The Volkswagen Up! stands out in the crowded city car segment with its blend of efficiency, nimble handling, and surprising refinement. This UK road test reveals how it performs across urban streets, winding B-roads, and motorways, making it a top choice for daily commuters.

Design and First Impressions

From the moment you approach the Volkswagen Up!, its **smart, dinky proportions** catch the eye. The clean lines and well-balanced stance give it a premium look uncommon in this class. At just over 3.6 meters long, it slots easily into tight parking spaces without sacrificing presence on the road.

Opening the door reveals a cabin that punches above its weight. Materials feel solid, with a dashboard layout reminiscent of larger VW models. Visibility is excellent, thanks to large windows and slim pillars, aiding maneuvers in busy UK cities.

Engine and Performance Breakdown

Our test focused on the **1.0-litre BlueMotion Technology** variant, delivering 59 bhp from its three-cylinder petrol engine. While not a powerhouse, its light weight—around 850 kg—ensures peppy acceleration. Urban sprints feel lively, with 0-60 mph in about 14.7 seconds for similar models.

• Power: 59-70 bhp depending on trim
• Torque: Up to 95 Nm
• Top Speed: 101 mph
• Gearbox Options: Five-speed manual or ASG automatic

On open roads, the engine pulls adequately up to 70 mph, though it labours on steep inclines without the turbo TSI upgrade. Owners note it handles hills better with service history maintenance.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Where the Up! truly shines is **fuel economy**. The BlueMotion achieves a combined 68.9 mpg, with extra-urban figures hitting 78.5 mpg and urban at 56.5 mpg. CO2 emissions sit at 96-103 g/km, placing it in VED Band A for zero first-year tax.

Low costs extend to insurance and company car tax (10% liability in older bands). It’s a budget-friendly option for first-time buyers or fleet operators.

Handling and Ride Quality

Despite its size, the Up! delivers **grown-up dynamics**. Light steering provides precise feedback, ideal for dodging traffic or navigating roundabouts. Suspension absorbs potholes effectively, maintaining comfort on patchy UK surfaces.

Motorway stability surprises, with hushed tyre and wind noise allowing relaxed cruising. It’s no sports car, but chassis balance ensures it won’t feel out of place on dual carriageways.

Interior Space and Practicality

Rear seats accommodate adults for short trips, with decent legroom for the class. Boot space measures 251 litres, expandable to 959 litres with seats folded—practical for shopping or weekend getaways.

Tech includes a simple infotainment system with Bluetooth, though higher trims add sat-nav. Build quality rivals pricier rivals, fostering a sense of durability.

Safety and Reliability Insights

The Up! earned a **three-star Euro NCAP** in 2019, with standard features like ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Reliability is strong, especially with dealer servicing. Common advice: check full service history to avoid issues.

Trims, Pricing, and Value

Starting around £13,000 for tested models, trims like Move up! offer great value. ASG versions slightly improve economy but compromise urban drivability with no creep function.

In a market with Fiat 500 and Toyota Aygo, the Up! leads in refinement and costs.

Real-World UK Driving Scenarios

In London congestion, its size and visibility excel. On A-roads, handling shines. Motorway tests confirm composure at legal speeds, though wind noise rises above 70 mph.

Owners praise economy and road manners beyond town use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Volkswagen Up! proves small cars needn’t compromise. Its efficiency, quality, and versatility make it a standout for UK drivers.