Review: 2020 Volkswagen Up! (facelift 2016) GTI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) OPF

The 2020 Volkswagen Up! GTI is a compact hatchback that packs a punch, offering a sporty driving experience in a small package. This car is ideal for those who want the thrill of a GTI but need the practicality of a city car. With its turbocharged engine and nimble handling, the Up! GTI is designed to make urban driving fun and efficient.

Understanding the Volkswagen Up! GTI

The Volkswagen Up! GTI is part of the Up! series, which received a facelift in 2016. This particular model, the GTI 1.0 TSI, features a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 115 horsepower. It's a front-wheel-drive vehicle with a manual transmission, making it engaging for those who enjoy a more hands-on driving experience. The car's compact size, with a length of just 3,600 mm (141.73 inches), makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets and parking in small spaces.

Main Features and Performance

The Up! GTI is equipped with a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine that delivers 115 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, providing a dynamic driving experience. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 8.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 196 km/h (121.79 mph).

Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the Up! GTI, with a combined fuel consumption of 5.5 liters per 100 km (42.77 US mpg, 51.36 UK mpg). This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting. The car meets the Euro 6-ISC-FCM emission standards, ensuring it is environmentally friendly.

Practicality and Usability

The Volkswagen Up! GTI is designed with practicality in mind. It offers seating for four and comes with either three or five doors, providing flexibility for different needs. The trunk space ranges from 251 liters (8.86 cu. ft.) to 959 liters (33.87 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded, making it suitable for small families or individuals who need extra cargo space occasionally.

Its compact dimensions, with a wheelbase of 2,412 mm (94.96 inches) and a turning circle of 9.8 meters (32.15 feet), make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The car's lightweight design, with a kerb weight of 992 kg (2,186.99 lbs), contributes to its agility and fuel efficiency.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Up! GTI is best suited for city dwellers who need a compact car that is easy to park and maneuver. Its sporty performance also makes it appealing to young drivers or those who enjoy a spirited drive. However, its limited seating and cargo space may not be ideal for larger families or those who frequently travel with a lot of luggage.

For long-distance travel, the Up! GTI offers a comfortable ride, but its small fuel tank capacity of 35 liters (9.25 US gal) means more frequent stops for refueling. Adventure seekers might find the car's limited off-road capabilities and low roof load capacity of 50 kg (110.23 lbs) restrictive.

Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: Compact size for city driving, sporty performance, fuel efficiency, and engaging manual transmission.
• Weaknesses: Limited cargo space, small fuel tank, and not ideal for large families or off-road adventures.

Conclusion

The 2020 Volkswagen Up! GTI is a fantastic choice for those seeking a fun and efficient city car. Its compact size, sporty performance, and fuel efficiency make it a standout in the urban environment. However, potential buyers should consider their space and travel needs before making a decision. Think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or a car that's easy to park in the city?