Iv been running my up GTI now for few months its incredible fuel economy I had the 75 ps up before and it used more fuel with so much less power, in real every day driving this car is incredibly fun and fast and puts fun in driving so much grunt at low revs simular to a punchy diesel engine even fits in a modern garage, summery great small simple car
Great feedback kopkoon, thanks! I do wonder how much the mpg will drop if the car gets some proper tyres rather than ECO ones but because it so economical, dropping a few mpg isn't the end of the world.
Done 16500 miles. Jan 18 plate. 5 door version in Tornado Red. Love it. Cracking wee car and great value and lots of fun to drive. Highly recommended!!
Recently found your channel. Really like the way you also talk about the day to day living with the cars not just how fast they are. I love vw group cars and over past 15 years or so had a b5 passat a b5.5 , b6 and b7 which i have loved for the past 3 years. My problem now is that the b8 passat has grown again in size and is so big for british roads and parking spaces. The skoda superb has the same issues. I quite like the audi a3 saloon but not so much the interior. Keep up the good work on the videos as they are very interesting.
The six main highlights of my UP GTI are 1, Build Quality 2,Fuel efficiency, with a genuine 70mpg on the cards if driven carefully 3, Very cheap to insure 4, Overall appearance 5. The best driving fun on a budget 6. Over all rarity, since its lauch back in March 2018, there's still less than 3000 of them on the road Just a great allround warm little hatchback
That was a fantastic video! It really makes me want an Up! GTi. You are right about that low down torque, it is exactly what you need on winding British roads! I definitively enjoyed this Volkswizard Video 😄👍🏻
8:39 "compare it to the standard lupo" 😂 yeah. Standard. Apart from the optional extras like fog lights, alloy wheels, pop out Windows and the ultra rare open air sunroof.
Hi Callum, I was only really talking about the body panels being 'standard' in comparison to the wide arch Lupo GTI. I didn't notice those extras on the Lupo so thanks for pointing them out, looks like a typical press car spec :)
Love these, best of both worlds with the fuel economy and fun. Would be a perfect car for me - a 21 y/o student - but the only kicker is unfortunately insurance.
I own a 2012 UP and have driven 90kmiles with it. It's lowered with Eibach, drives on 195/50/16, has Audi TT rubbers in the steering and is tuned to some 80PS. This is the car fulfilling all expectations. For real driving you have to keep the revs over 4500RPM, but it is so sweet sounding. For Holland, not having any hill to speak of it in fact is fast enough, and it is fantastic on roundabouts. I had a 2002, a 327i (tuned), 2 Peugs 106GTI, a Mk5 Golf GTI (tuned to 245PS) and still have a MX5 2.0 NC with modified suspension. The UP is simply the best car to have fun in, except of course if you the possibility to really play with the MX5. In fact it is redundant now, also owning a BBR Mazda 3, but I simply cannot take distance from it. I must really not test drive an UP GTI, for I'm afraid I'm sold, and still would it find difficult to trade in the White UP.
Hi. The rubbers in the steering at the front wheels are very flexible, resulting in eh... a rubbery steering feel. These can be exchanged by solid rubbers, giving much more steering feel, at the cost of much more 3-cilinder vibrations through the whole car. That is probably the reason why these rubbers are so flexible. For me it is worth it, but you trade in comfort at low revs.
Thanks @ThisIsLiamJones, glad you enjoyed this one too. Taking in the design of a car is something I enjoy doing a lot, often a lot of effort has gone into it and it's nice to absorb it deliberately every so often (sounds like you already know this though)
Yet another sincere and genuine review of VWs little pocket rocket Andrew, good job. The VFM is totally on point and the absence of some serious BHP is no hinderance whatsoever as you illustrated. It isn't what the up! GTI is all about; you either get it or you don't it would seem. My plaudits again for promoting this car so well since it's press release and throughout your ownership. You really need to pull that for sale ad and think about its modern classic status to come... ;)
Hi Darren, thanks for commenting again. I'd love to hold onto it and I do have a sentimental bond with this particular example but simply can't afford to stick a load of miles on in, miles which other cars would be best suited to. Nor can I afford to leave it gathering dust. I think it will be around for a while yet though so anything could happen in that time :)
I totally understand your position/dilemma Andrew. I guess your enthusiasm for the little car is evident in all your videos and therefore, outside looking in, it will be a shame to see you part with it. Selfishly, I'll also miss the up! GTI vlogs too, though your channel is excellent and I'll continue to be a subscriber and admirer of your work.
Bought myself a Tsi up! Beats model in tungsten silver, 2 months ago. Best decision I've made! Shall look forward to seeing you around volkswizard. I tend to drive round Birmingham too on my daily commute.
I’m trying to get the other half to try the Up GTI out... we’ve been looking for a small fun and economical car for the both of us but she likes the Fiesta ST line 140 and she’s going to be the one that uses it the most......
There are several of these wee little beasties roaming the narrow & lowly speed limited roads in Guernsey but just the perfect car for here. Planning a trip to the UK or France with it when the weather improves, I’m sure it’ll be fun!
Great video! Unfortunately we don't have the up! GTI here in Brazil, so we have to be happy with the current offer which is the TSi. The engine I think it's the same 3-cylinder turbocharged, but I bet the GTI is the most refined and tuned up! in the market everywhere. :) What I like about it is that it is very nippy around town and I really like driving it pretty much everywhere. I can park it in many places where I would struggle in my previous Golf. The VW manual transmission is also a joy to use it. And the up! TSi is also very economical, both in petrol and ethanol. I'm thinking about changing cars. Either a Polo or a T-Cross GTI. But this car also brings me oh so much joy on a daily basis. The torque is massive.
Hey g e o - thanks for commenting - it's great to hear from people in other countries and even other continents! The TSI is a great car and much better than the normal aspirated versions of the Up! - the GTI is just the cherry on top :)
Good video. I like a fiesty small car too. However, I can't agree with your comment on the Up! GTI being more reliable / durable than a Swift Sport. Swift Sports have been hammering around the Nurburgring for years now. One example completed 2400 laps of the ring, at the hands of some seriously abusive drivers. When they dyno'd the car it still made stock power. It had also been buzzed to near 9,000 RPM from memory. I like the Up! GTI, but in no way will it have the reliability or durability of a car manufacturer that has great knowledge on how to make high revving motorcycle engines. The Japanese have this sort of thing sewn up I'm afraid.
Fair point - TBH I meant to say that the other cars suffer in other areas but not necessarily each car suffers all the issues so sorry about that. Having said that, as with every car there are issues and an EVO mag buying guide said the SSS gearbox input shaft can fail and ABS pump failure is a common issue as well as a few other things. So yes Suzuki can make great engines but it helps if the other bits reliable too. Who knows if the new SSS will be as reliable as the old one anyway? Unlike VW, Suzuki aren't experts in turbocharging. As for 'ring rentai cars, I think the same company also used Sciroccos (rent4ring).
I traded my Twingo RS133 in on a new red UP GTI, must say that your questioning of the 133 on reliability is unfounded in my experience, owned mine from new for five years and it never gave me a single problem and it was great to drive, the UP GTI underwhelmed me at first but it’s starting to grow on me, I’m still running it in so I’ve not tried driving it hard yet but I look forward to doing so. Depreciation on the 133 was fairly steep as expected, got £4500 for it against the UP, cost me just over 13k new. Also think the renault sport badge has some cache, though I’ll admit VW GTI beats it in that respect. I expect my up to be worth about 5k in four years time. Update…2023, just traded it in and got 12k.
Well i did it i bought a Passat GT 2015 in reflex silver. I have had to learn to drive again regarding the increased size and driving possistion over my much loved B7 but after 1 week i am now at one with it.
Hi must say I agree with you after having lots of cars this is the one I’m having must fun with. Makes me smile every time I drive it. My only gripe s really are the inside of the windscreen when it’s been frozen overnight and the tyres..... Interesting point you raise about the value as you will be aware the CAP value is about £9k .... shocking really. Best addition to my car is the electromagnetic reverse sensor. Cost me £9.00 and works a treat when you need to keep your car tight when parked.
CAP valuations are a joke in many cases and ultimately they are just a guide. I've had mine advertised at £13k recently and it was attracting interest. Keith Morris (where are you?!) has been offered £10k+ for his car with over 10k miles and zero options and that's trade. £13k is dealer retail for 4k miles with options - I use that figure the car was bought new from a main dealer for £13850 and that was a retail (rather than trade) price so only fair to compare the used dealer retail price with that.
Had thought about losing mine for a very short time and was offered this price at we’ll know dealers!, appears they do not like it when I WBAC or CAP theirs. Most dealers are putting £5k on top of CAP and then state when they offer rock bottom for yours it’s a solid offer. It’s a joke you are right. Just one last thing could you post a test on the GTI TCR if you get chance thanks
I really enjoyed your run down on the up GTi, I am a big fan of this car, and although I don't have the VW up in any form yet, I do run around in the Citigo which essentially is the same. When I purchased it some 3 years ago, I had a choice, fiat 500 with options galore, or the Citigo, what struck me on the test drives was that the fiat turned out to be the most boring car I had ever driven, but the Citigo, well, it put a big fat smile on my face, needless to say I parted with my cash and drove home in it. Now I am hooked on this car and I am still not bored, which is a big deal as I change cars pretty quickly. I do hope in a year or so I will be in a position to upgrade to the Up GTi, I am certainly trying my hardest to resist the temptation to trade Up now.😂
Hey Scott, I must try a 500 especially Abarth as they seem to be a rival and yet nobody rates them over the Up! GTI. Citigo is a great car, if you like that you will *love* the Up! GTI, whenever you finally get behind the wheel 👍
@@volkswizard I do admire the look of the Arbarth but still it is the curse of Italian engineering I fear, not to mention the dull experience I have already had, no, I always promised myself another hot hatch after I watched my mg metro get towed to the breakers many years ago and the Up certainly ticks that box.😂
I've had mine (black 3 door) for about 6 weeks now and I love it! Really pleasantly surprised by the fuel economy as I haven't exactly been making an effort to drive economically! Also everything just feels solid and well built. Feels like a much bigger car when on the motorway but when driving down small lanes you see the advantages of it being such a small car. Would highly recommend if you want a small car that's a bit more special and truly affordable!
TBH I don't notice it - I hated it in Golf R but in this it just sound like the engine. I haven't even looked to turning it off but I don't think it's electronic like in the Golf so you probably can't but not sure, it's fine!
Thanks Sean, glad you enjoyed it. It's probably a good time to point out that I have no agenda. I'm not being paid by VW (wish I was), they wouldn't even lend me an Up! GTI when I asked for one before mine arrived. In fact they were a bit annoyed I made a video review in the UK in January 2018, 3 weeks before they had their UK press cars ready and we've had very little contact ever since. I'm just expressing how I feel about a car that for once has been better than I imagined and is affordable, a rare combination with modern cars.
Just bought my wife a 68 plate with 30k on clock in the red the same as yours and have to say she loves it, slightly noisey through the boot, could of benefited from some sound proofing in there as well as under bonnet but its a great little car.. although in 2024 June value is not so good we paid 11500 which is crazy froa 2nd hand car but sadly thats the times we are in, prices are not dropping much post covid shortages.
Excellent video. My tornado red Up GTi is being delivered this week. 19 plate with just under 40k on it. Identical to this one. Looking forward to it..sounds a fun little car.
@@volkswizard thanks. Had it two days now. The fuel range is confusing though. I filled it to the brim with super unleaded and dash says I've got a 250 mile range. Strange that 🤔
Was looking at either one of these or an abarth 595. Went for the abaerth purely because one popped up at a nice price and the sound it makes is second to none in the small 4 cylinder category, and 180hp is mega fun in such a small car. Love both though ! trying to tempt my girlfreind into getting one of these so i can choose between the 2 every morning ;)
Really like these. My choice would be red 3door aswell. Tornado red doesn’t get as much love as it deserves. Few mods and i reckon i’d be pretty happy with one of these as a daily.
What would you do Jack? I'd do tyres, wishbone bushes, maybe exhaust, panel filter, headlight bulbs. Slightly uprated dampers might be nice but because it's so light it would be easy to make it too hard.
volkswizard tyres, wheels, exhaust, filter, map and probably a few bushes and roll bars. Lowering springs. Wouldn’t go mad. I can see these as having a good amount of aftermarket support in a year or 2
I have finally gone ahead and ordered one. You inspired me to get the black roof although Tornado red was always going to be the colour of choice for me. Mine is also a 5dr one compromise I had to agree to but I think it still looks great. I have also added light & sight with cruise & park 😀
Great video, thank you. I have recently purchased one & I agree with all your comments, the perfect car for driving around the small roads in Guernsey! Love it, she’s/he’s a cutie!
I like the way you look at cars. i really do think this car has what i need. when i said i like vw up most said its like a toy. Though im only unsure about its price.. i currently own an older BMW thats very good daily driver for me and is not worth much. not sure what to decide, Up is cool but bmw (e36 compact) is bigger and really different purpose.. hah got to make up my mind, time will tell, im happy with my e36 in a similar way you are with your up.
What l love about our Up GTi is that l got one before VW stopped making them! No more orders after March 2019. “Up” to be all electric from 2020. E-Up GTi anybody?
What can you get out of a tank? Not so concerned with mpg from a running cost POV, more that on my work run you have to go out of your way to find a fuel station. So being able to go weekend to weekend without a fill is key....330 miles. Might be a bit of a stretch?
It depends how you drive but if there is some steady speed driving 40-70 mph I don't think 330 is impossible but mpg varies from 40-70 so range varies accordingly.
@@volkswizard thanks for the reply. It does seem possible given what I saw here. I used the range values and the number of fuel marks left to work it out. But not worth a squirt if you can play with the loud pedal every now and again. I know the up is actually quite a civilised car in general, but it still has a short wheelbase. Does it Bob about on the motorway? Can you just kick back and relax in it if you just want to get home without driving like you're arse is on fire?
Another excellent video, this has made me so excited to get this car now and OMG that fuel economy though... wow, I’m genuinely impressed and can’t wait to get mine now!!!!
I'd love to but I am reluctant to be too specific as I've not tested any. If you search for big brand 195 40 17 tyres 4 are available I think, Dunlop, Continental and Pirelli (as well as the Goodyears). I'd probably go Pirelli but IIRC they all said to be rated worse on fuel efficiency than the originals which is a good thing in this case!
Great looking car and unlined boot and door caps add to the utilitarian appeal and importantly keep price low - VW needs to import to oz but lack of auto saw up struggle here where polo 70 TSI is the entry model - Swift Sport and Fiesta ST have niche followers. Would be nice to see a video on the Golf Cabrio you have in stock - iconic car but perhaps a bit cold right now in uk :)
I'd love to a video on that Mk1 Golf but as you infer, it's hard to get motivated about it right now. There is an auto option for some Up! models called the ASG - it's apparently not very good so probably better off not getting it :)
Hi you are a good reviewer.... i have VW UP 2013 model with DSG transmission. It has done 95000 km on odo and now i am feeling a bit jerks and noise when it shifts from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd gear but gets smooth after that. Now please guide me with below three questions. is it neceassry to change DSG transmission oil ? is it the reason why gear shift make noise? How do this oil will be hanged? Looking forward.
@volkswizard I’ve currently got a Polo GTI 1.8T 6c, really considering an Up GTI but not sure about the build quality compared to the polo as to whether I’d feel it was a downgrade, what’s your opinion on the UP’s overall build quality after driving it on a daily basis?
The build quality is at least as good as Polo. What you may miss is the equipment - no one touch windows, no liner in the boot, no reach adjustment on steering column, pop out rear windows on 5 door. But it makes up for this by being much better on fuel, significantly more compact and - importantly - not trying to be a Golf GTI (unlike the Polo). If you are largely urban use, the Polo is wasted and the Up! GTI is just so easy and pleasurable to nip around in with all that torque. Also bear in mind rear space including boot is significantly less in Up! Both are good cars though.
Hmm good question - I think you'd better watch the video where I give the reason why I am selling my own Up! GTI as that will answer your question quite comprehensively :) th-cam.com/video/Zy2ib0Pb7VE/w-d-xo.html
Andrew, are the brakes any good? Or more importantly the brake performance - do you feel they are sufficiently powerful to arrest the car from motorway speeds?
The brakes are brilliant Edward - have no doubts about that. Do not worry about the rears being drums, it makes no odds as long as they are well maintained. As well as being effective they also have really nice feel. Of course grippier tyres will help the brakes too as the ABS will engage less but even as it is, the braking system - for road use - is spot on, just like every other VW, whether disc or drum braked. It's a light car which helps too of course.
Hi Darren, I haven't tested any but there are less eco biased tyres from Pirelli, Continental and Dunlop which should prove more suited to a GTI. Thanks. Andrew
I was debating between the up gti, abarth 595 (145hp) and the new swift sport. Decided to go for the swift sport because its bigger, while also being lighter and on top of that it has a bit more hp (140)
Suzuki have been clever to make a bigger car lighter and faster but the current SSS is also significantly more expensive than the Up! GTI and to quote EVO magazine not significantly faster in the real world. When I mentioned the SSS I was really talking about the previous model a) because it was a similar price to the Up! GTI and b) because it was apparently dynamically superior. I don't know why the Pistonheads guy decided to reminisce about old models but there we go. Enjoy your car, the more small hot hatches there are around, the better :)
Can you (or anyone else) offer any advice as to how quiet the Up GTi is on a motorway? Using a free iPhone app I put the noise in my current car on a motorway at around 90dB which seems extremely loud!
Hi Christopher, it's not terrible but it's not brilliant either. There is a fair bit of wind noise which is my overriding memory. However for the class of car I'd say it was acceptable. Best to go try one to see what you think.
maybe I just don't go into higher gears that much but 3:43 when you said you weren't doing much economy driving, seems you're doing just a bit under 40 in 6th. I'd probably only be in 4th on a 5 speed, so maybe 5th in 6 speed at a push - 4:02 didn't know you could cruise at 30mph in 5th wow
Andrew, Will you now be running the UK UP GTi Collectors Centre now that VW are no longer taking orders for new orders. Phasing out of UP, Citigo & Mii. Good for residuals??!!
@@volkswizard Andrew , I'm so pleased that I managed to get my ultimate spec'd car,that I always wanted in the first place. Just had a couple of 200 plus mile round trips in the last week, engine ,gearbox etc . nicely bedded in. Both drives returned average speeds of 52 mph - 55mph, returning in excess of 52 mpg ave, with best 59 mpg.ave Do you know what, the ride was good and comfort on arrival, at both ends for this old bugger was that I got out with Zero aches and pains. WIN WIN !! My dealer has now sold my old standard stock car , a really great buy for a young or old country road driving enthusiast or the city driver who can have fun outside the urban environment.
Hi Mr GTI! Glad you enjoyed it :) I can only recommend doing all 4 as the car has been set up by the engineers on the basis of front and rear grip being equal. That's what has stopped me doing it so far (the cost).
Might be test driving one of these next week but it's a 71 reg which doesn't seem best to actually buy as it's priced I think at £17-18k... hoping to side by side vs an Abarth 595 or a Fiesta ST mk7 perhaps
That’s too dear, prices are about to slump so sit tight. You could get a new one for around that if you factory order. No experience of other 2, I like the idea of the Abarth but the interior is a mess. Fiesta ST image isn’t the best but it’s a decent car and in a different league to UP
I've enjoyed your videos, about the VW Up! GTI. I've got one on order, and I've been reassured that trading in my 2016 Polo R Line was the right decision. Did you have to order the cradle and VW leads for the phone, or were they standard? I can't seem to get a definitive answer from VW. Thanks
Hi Jan. Glad you've enjoyed the videos! The cradle and leads were definitely standard when I got mine but it's not impossible they might have been deleted from the spec but that's quite unlikely so you should be OK. Cradle less likely than the leads to be missing and leads easy enough to get. You can use a standard Apple lead anyway. Hope that helps. Andrew
@@volkswizard I've got my Up GTI, and up to now, I'm very pleased with it. It's lovely to drive. Not as luxurious, if that's the right word, as my Polo R Line TSI, but definitely more fun. I'm still discovering things it doesn't have, like s mirror on the driver's visor. The handbook says it's got one, but it ain't. Also, the door lock and window buttons don't illuminate.
Thanks Jobe. I struggled to choose between red and white but went for red as didn't like the white inside. I wouldn't do that again though as the red paint on doors inside and the off-red dash inlay began to bug me so it's white or Tungsten (definitely not black!). Tungsten was £550 vs £250 for white but you might get that back on resale. Pan roof is also massively desirable and I gather not available on the new Up! GTI that's just come out.
volkswizard i am absolutely gutted if that is the case regarding the panoramic roof if no longer available? I might just have to look for a used Up GTI with panoramic roof? I used to own a like new Lupo GTI and it was a hoot to drive. I do love the idea of the Up GTI having the extra torque. I used to have to ring the neck of my Lupo to get the best out of it. I’d rather just have fun within the speed limits. I think you are spot on regarding the colour black and the mismatched red dash against the red doors? I think I would have been tempted to have some sort of wrap added to the inner front door that matched the dash that then faded out half way down? The dash was an interesting choice by VW. It’s the one thing I am not 100% on? Do you still have your Up GTI?
Hi. My Up GTI will arrive 3 weeks from now. I wanted to ask you about rims. I will buy 195 45 R16 winter tires so I need another set of rims for that. I don't know much about offset and stuff like that. My friend told me that 6J and ET43 would be enough for R16 rims. Can you confirm that ? Honestly,any help would be great :)
Hi Davor. Your friend is correct at there are many wheels available for Up! from the factory that are ET43 and 6Jx16. I should point the factory recommend these 15s shops.volkswagen.com/en_GB/web/zubehoer/p/leichtmetallfelge-merano-5j-x-15-brillantsilber-1s0071495a-8z8-14?category=4315:904_VWZ_OZ:Category
@@volkswizard Ok thanks.Vw also answered me that their specs are 5Jx15 with offset 33.But I would like R16 rims.Can you tell me offset for that rims? Because 33 is for R15 and 43 is offset for R17.What kind of R16 rim should I buy? With 6.5J and what offset? 43 offset is for R16 and R17 rims? It can be same offset? So for winter tire 195 45 R16,I can buy rim 4x100 J6.5,with offset 43.And that is fine?
All I can say is the factory fit 6J x 16 with ET43. A 6.5J wheel with ET43 isn't on the list so I can't comment, clearance is tight so I can only recommend what VW fit.
@@volkswizard Ok,so ET43 is for both R17 and R16 rims.That is good to know.Thank you so much for your help. One more thing. Tire with dimension 195 45 R16 will fit nicely on 6Jx16 ET43 ?
As before I can only recommend what VW suggest and on that rim it's 185 50 R16. I went one size up on my Mk5 GTI (both tyre and rim size (7.5J to 8J 225 to 235) and I had to make some major modifications and it still rubs a bit. Probably best to ask on a forum and see if anyone else has done it. Bear in mind a 195 45 16 can vary between different manufacturers or even model so one may rub and one won't.
Not sure, start spending big bucks and you can get close to the Polo GTI £20k. Can they get more out of that 1.0 reliably? If so they'll have to go 4 pot or go 1.2 3 cyl turbo. I'd like better headlamps, better tyres, better seats, better suspension. Brakes and power are OK but they will no doubt at a few hp.
@@volkswizard - have you tried the Miltek Up! gti as reviewed in a recent CAR magazine? It has more power, improved suspension and very tasty oem-looking Cobra front seats (plus a few other things)? If not - it would be interesting to see if you can get your hands on one and review it for your channel....
@@mrmarrow8918 I asked them, they said maybe, I said mags are good but video would allow exhaust noise to be demonstrated, then I never heard anything off them 🤷♂️
Great video and very helpful and enjoyable stuff. I drive big engined hairy arsed stuff rather a lot, but I'm just as happy zipping about town in our 11yr old Toyota iQ. 28yrs of the car trade makes you a little numb to most stuff. Having just sold my car (BMW monster of a 640d M Grand Coupe) - I need some summer wheels, and I just have a feeling that an Up GTi will be a hoot to zap around in. Thoughts on the various Bilstien/Miltek and Stage 1 remap mods being undertaken on them? Thanks, Ed
Thanks Craig! Well the Up! GTI *is* a great car but it does have its limitations so make sure you are OK with its somewhat basic nature and try and get a decent spec (at least with cruise and park pack) to minimise cuture shock from the Merc
Great video nice to see a quality review. I really would like one for my commute. Can you buy these new. I’ve been on the VW website and can’t find it on the car configuration section?
No, not sold yet. Ideally when I move house the car will be sold as it will no longer suit my needs as commuting will be mainly motorway. I will be sad but can't afford to keep it for sentimental reasons and can't afford to stick a loads of boring miles on it doing journeys it's not well suited to. But for the moment, let the fun continue!
A main dealer will pay a lot more - the more people that see the ridiculous pricing from the WBAC the more people will realise what a joke they are if you are selling a good car - if you are selling something with a horrible hidden expensive fault out of warranty then let them have it!
WBAC is just your bottom line, they offered me £3500 on my RS133 yet VW gave me £4500 and now have it up for sale for £5799! Take all used car prices with a pinch of salt.
The big one for me would be the shockingly ugly body shape. If you are just passing your test don't think about this as your first car, insurance will be sky high and you need to learn to drive before getting anything with power. Things will get better as you get experience.
@@stephenphoenix-roberts9447 I'm not the man to ask as I don''t believe this car needs more power as it's a handful as it is and all you will do is trigger the traction control more often. But I gather Milltek run a tuned one, not sure what they've done about the TC though.
Probably a great car to own and commute in, but hardly a hot hatch compared to the Swift sport is it? Also the swift is reliable, according to the JD power survey.
Swift is £17500 (that's with £1000 discount that is being advertised). Up! GTI 5 door is £13800 ish with £1000 off. For what you get for your money the Up! GTI is massively better value. If I want the definitive hot hatch, neither are going to hit the spot so I'd be looking elsewhere anyway. Plus I am yet to see a Japanese car that has an interior that doesn't make me want to vomit and I don't think the SSS is going to change that. Oh and I didn't see the SSS in the EVO Car of the Year test, if you are wondering why here is a clip from their review of it - "The previous Suzuki Swift Sport always had value on its side, but with a price of £17,999 the latest model faces some stiff competition. In real world performance terms, it doesn’t feel massively quicker than the barely any less spacious VW up GTI, which in five-door form weighs in at a smidgen over £14,000". But if you'd rather have a Suzuki badge for more money than a VW badge then don't let me stop you :)
Are you referring to a 100% standard car as most are modified and that usually involves the suspension. As you can see in my Up! GTI vs Lupo GTI the standard chassis is very poor.
@@volkswizard nope it is about performance. Any hatchback with 150bhp will beat this car in a short race on a quite road without any speed cameras. Besides…You can’t call a car a hot hatch if it doesn’t have the performance. I have seen videos on TH-cam where some people have tuned their up gti up to 170 bhp and that’s more than enough power to give it hot hatch credentials.
@@volkswizard Yep on the money Andrew, your journey to prove the fuel consumption, engine efficiency, I can replicate ,as I have visited my dentist about 30miles each way on several occasions and pretty much achieved the same, not driving too the eco change indicator, over some lovely twisty A,B&C roads, Devizes -Wilts to Dursley -Gloucestershire. 65- 67mpg. Combined short, Urban, M/way , tank neck typically recording averaging approx. 57mpg running Tesco's Momentum fuel 100%. Engine pickup from 2500 rpm -5000rpm, great pulling power for this small capacity engine. Smile a mile for me! Yeah agree about tyres, good for economy but as you describe ,when pushed grip is lacking. Need to look at options for sure when I change. Wear rate is good though, as at first service 9500 miles ,tread depth at 5mm all round for fwd car. Also agree I just love the A,BC, road running,like you my preference is too use the twisty but quickish back roads. I also agree about the design profile, features, cheeky yet very efficient internal and external concept, hence the popularity of UP, Citigo & Mii. ,winning the small hatch car of the year over several years in fact. Love mine, hence I am about to take delivery of a new high spec'd replacement .
Hi Alejandro! I don't want to sell the car but I am moving out of the city and my commute will be mainly motorway where this car isn't at its best. It's fine as an occasional motorway car but there are better cars for that purpose and I don't want to add lots of miles onto it and devalue it by using it for boring journeys. I will buy another one day though I am certain. Thank you for commenting. Andrew :)
why do you brit´s hate winter tyres??? you have more or less the same weather as here in denmark and under 7 c they will be better unless you driver in a big town wear the heat is so much higher the street´s are clear, and those diament cut wheels really easy get coroaded, but the 15" winter wheels that came with my tsi speciel are also a crap tyre they are falken. regards Sören
Hey Sören, I love winter tyres as you can see in this video th-cam.com/video/k4rO2CIs67g/w-d-xo.html So far in the UK we've had a mild winter and it's actually not been below 7 degrees all that often. Most winters have long spells where the temperature is above 7 degrees and that's when winter tyres aren't so effective. I think we are a little warmer here in the UK over winter as we get warm Atlantic air which makes things a bit less predictable.
The VW badge is quite overrated; while they might be ever so slightly more reliable than their French rivals, they are nowhere near the standard of their German counterparts, even when compared with equally priced models.
Can you pls either confirm or deny, you had a large discount on your car, providing you relentlessly plug and swoon over these wheezey budget runabouts. Thanks.
As I said in the video, not everyone gets the Up! GTI and clearly you are one of those people. If everyone did, I probably wouldn't so that's fine by me. You may have noticed if you watched the first 30 seconds that I previously made a video talking about 6 things that I don't like about the Up! GTI which was hardly a swoonfest. This one just redresses the balance. As for the discount, I got £1k off which everyone can get if they ask the main dealer. Bear in mind this car made the last 8 for EVO magazine's car of the year 2018 and when launched had a lead time of around 10 months as demand was that high so I'm not the only one who loves this car, but for my sins, I'm the only one who makes videos (the watching of which is actually optional....).
@@volkswizard I know it's got the journo's approval, and the lead times were a fact. But I live 30 miles from you and I've yet to see one? Can you tell me who is buying them? Young people pcp polo gti, it's got 'cred' and performance. Ps, I watch your content and enjoy, the mk5, Roc r, clubsport, rs3, r8😍. just don't get you on this one.
Read the comments Lee, the owners exist and are very enthusiastic. As I've said before, it wouldn't cut it for me as an only car but as a no hassle daily that's great on fuel, easy to drive and still a heap of fun, it's perfect. Even today I was driving it and couldn't believe how pleasurable it was to ring its neck and chuck it around - small, light and torquey is a surprisingly addictive combination - less is more and all that :)
Lee - If you enjoy driving and have driven an Up! GTI, I fail to see what there is not to get. For me they offer a superb combination of style, quality, use of space, affordability and FUN. If none of that is your bag, it may explain your negativity.
Lee, seriously, go and test drive one but keep in mind it's price and what the car actually is all about. you will absolutely love it. I admit I haven't seen many on the road myself either but the lead times are still long and it's holding its price in the used market so on that evidence, demand is high and for good reason!
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I am abit late to getting my license but the biggest push for me is the up! i love seeing up videos and yours are the best thanks!
Hey Ahmed! Thanks for commenting and thanks also for your very kind words! Keep pushing, you won't regret it ;)
I have to admit that the VW UP GTI is my dream car, I hope one day to be able to afford one ;)
I am sure you will Robert, they are cheap now and only going to get cheaper as they get older :)
Iv been running my up GTI now for few months its incredible fuel economy I had the 75 ps up before and it used more fuel with so much less power, in real every day driving this car is incredibly fun and fast and puts fun in driving so much grunt at low revs simular to a punchy diesel engine even fits in a modern garage, summery great small simple car
Great feedback kopkoon, thanks! I do wonder how much the mpg will drop if the car gets some proper tyres rather than ECO ones but because it so economical, dropping a few mpg isn't the end of the world.
Done 16500 miles. Jan 18 plate. 5 door version in Tornado Red. Love it. Cracking wee car and great value and lots of fun to drive. Highly recommended!!
Recently found your channel. Really like the way you also talk about the day to day living with the cars not just how fast they are. I love vw group cars and over past 15 years or so had a b5 passat a b5.5 , b6 and b7 which i have loved for the past 3 years. My problem now is that the b8 passat has grown again in size and is so big for british roads and parking spaces. The skoda superb has the same issues. I quite like the audi a3 saloon but not so much the interior. Keep up the good work on the videos as they are very interesting.
Thanks Miele939, very much appreciated, comments like yours motivate me to make more so big thumbs up (no emoticons on this device!)
The six main highlights of my UP GTI are
1, Build Quality
2,Fuel efficiency, with a genuine 70mpg on the cards if driven carefully
3, Very cheap to insure
4, Overall appearance
5. The best driving fun on a budget
6. Over all rarity, since its lauch back in March 2018, there's still less than 3000 of them on the road
Just a great allround warm little hatchback
That was a fantastic video! It really makes me want an Up! GTi. You are right about that low down torque, it is exactly what you need on winding British roads! I definitively enjoyed this Volkswizard Video 😄👍🏻
I always wanted a small car ,
I always wanted to have a gti ,
when this came my dream came true .
I love everything about it .
Andi Justifi, exactly how I felt!
8:39 "compare it to the standard lupo" 😂 yeah. Standard. Apart from the optional extras like fog lights, alloy wheels, pop out Windows and the ultra rare open air sunroof.
Hi Callum, I was only really talking about the body panels being 'standard' in comparison to the wide arch Lupo GTI. I didn't notice those extras on the Lupo so thanks for pointing them out, looks like a typical press car spec :)
I’ve ordered mine and it’s coming in white with a black roof in 4 weeks time and I could not be more excited to have my very own GTI, great video!
Love these, best of both worlds with the fuel economy and fun. Would be a perfect car for me - a 21 y/o student - but the only kicker is unfortunately insurance.
I'm 17, quoted up GTI for fun to see what it would be and it was £1200, no black box
@@Thb202 that's good looking at one now I didn't like the up but then I saw the gti version and I love it
I own a 2012 UP and have driven 90kmiles with it. It's lowered with Eibach, drives on 195/50/16, has Audi TT rubbers in the steering and is tuned to some 80PS. This is the car fulfilling all expectations. For real driving you have to keep the revs over 4500RPM, but it is so sweet sounding. For Holland, not having any hill to speak of it in fact is fast enough, and it is fantastic on roundabouts. I had a 2002, a 327i (tuned), 2 Peugs 106GTI, a Mk5 Golf GTI (tuned to 245PS) and still have a MX5 2.0 NC with modified suspension. The UP is simply the best car to have fun in, except of course if you the possibility to really play with the MX5. In fact it is redundant now, also owning a BBR Mazda 3, but I simply cannot take distance from it. I must really not test drive an UP GTI, for I'm afraid I'm sold, and still would it find difficult to trade in the White UP.
TT rubbers on steering.
can you explain some more Thanks
please explain about your TT Rubber a bit more Thanks
Hi. The rubbers in the steering at the front wheels are very flexible, resulting in eh... a rubbery steering feel. These can be exchanged by solid rubbers, giving much more steering feel, at the cost of much more 3-cilinder vibrations through the whole car. That is probably the reason why these rubbers are so flexible. For me it is worth it, but you trade in comfort at low revs.
@chubbybrown4real I'd image Arthur means wishbone bushes and I totally agree, sounds like a great modification.
@@volkswizard Happy days
8:20 - Had me in stitches. Pretty much a copy and paste of the conversation me and the Mrs have when she cant find me 😂
Cracking vid mate, as always
Thanks @ThisIsLiamJones, glad you enjoyed this one too. Taking in the design of a car is something I enjoy doing a lot, often a lot of effort has gone into it and it's nice to absorb it deliberately every so often (sounds like you already know this though)
Yet another sincere and genuine review of VWs little pocket rocket Andrew, good job. The VFM is totally on point and the absence of some serious BHP is no hinderance whatsoever as you illustrated. It isn't what the up! GTI is all about; you either get it or you don't it would seem. My plaudits again for promoting this car so well since it's press release and throughout your ownership. You really need to pull that for sale ad and think about its modern classic status to come... ;)
Hi Darren, thanks for commenting again. I'd love to hold onto it and I do have a sentimental bond with this particular example but simply can't afford to stick a load of miles on in, miles which other cars would be best suited to. Nor can I afford to leave it gathering dust. I think it will be around for a while yet though so anything could happen in that time :)
I totally understand your position/dilemma Andrew. I guess your enthusiasm for the little car is evident in all your videos and therefore, outside looking in, it will be a shame to see you part with it. Selfishly, I'll also miss the up! GTI vlogs too, though your channel is excellent and I'll continue to be a subscriber and admirer of your work.
Bought myself a Tsi up! Beats model in tungsten silver, 2 months ago. Best decision I've made!
Shall look forward to seeing you around volkswizard. I tend to drive round Birmingham too on my daily commute.
I will keep a look out for your Thatrebel Muji as Tungsten TSIs are quite rare around my way, look out for my white headlights :)
I’m trying to get the other half to try the Up GTI out... we’ve been looking for a small fun and economical car for the both of us but she likes the Fiesta ST line 140 and she’s going to be the one that uses it the most......
There are several of these wee little beasties roaming the narrow & lowly speed limited roads in Guernsey but just the perfect car for here. Planning a trip to the UK or France with it when the weather improves, I’m sure it’ll be fun!
Great video!
Unfortunately we don't have the up! GTI here in Brazil, so we have to be happy with the current offer which is the TSi.
The engine I think it's the same 3-cylinder turbocharged, but I bet the GTI is the most refined and tuned up! in the market everywhere. :)
What I like about it is that it is very nippy around town and I really like driving it pretty much everywhere. I can park it in many places where I would struggle in my previous Golf. The VW manual transmission is also a joy to use it.
And the up! TSi is also very economical, both in petrol and ethanol.
I'm thinking about changing cars. Either a Polo or a T-Cross GTI. But this car also brings me oh so much joy on a daily basis. The torque is massive.
Hey g e o - thanks for commenting - it's great to hear from people in other countries and even other continents! The TSI is a great car and much better than the normal aspirated versions of the Up! - the GTI is just the cherry on top :)
volkswizard A very nice looking cherry indeed 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Good video. I like a fiesty small car too. However, I can't agree with your comment on the Up! GTI being more reliable / durable than a Swift Sport. Swift Sports have been hammering around the Nurburgring for years now. One example completed 2400 laps of the ring, at the hands of some seriously abusive drivers. When they dyno'd the car it still made stock power. It had also been buzzed to near 9,000 RPM from memory. I like the Up! GTI, but in no way will it have the reliability or durability of a car manufacturer that has great knowledge on how to make high revving motorcycle engines. The Japanese have this sort of thing sewn up I'm afraid.
Fair point - TBH I meant to say that the other cars suffer in other areas but not necessarily each car suffers all the issues so sorry about that. Having said that, as with every car there are issues and an EVO mag buying guide said the SSS gearbox input shaft can fail and ABS pump failure is a common issue as well as a few other things. So yes Suzuki can make great engines but it helps if the other bits reliable too. Who knows if the new SSS will be as reliable as the old one anyway? Unlike VW, Suzuki aren't experts in turbocharging. As for 'ring rentai cars, I think the same company also used Sciroccos (rent4ring).
I traded my Twingo RS133 in on a new red UP GTI, must say that your questioning of the 133 on reliability is unfounded in my experience, owned mine from new for five years and it never gave me a single problem and it was great to drive, the UP GTI underwhelmed me at first but it’s starting to grow on me, I’m still running it in so I’ve not tried driving it hard yet but I look forward to doing so. Depreciation on the 133 was fairly steep as expected, got £4500 for it against the UP, cost me just over 13k new. Also think the renault sport badge has some cache, though I’ll admit VW GTI beats it in that respect. I expect my up to be worth about 5k in four years time. Update…2023, just traded it in and got 12k.
Well i did it i bought a Passat GT 2015 in reflex silver. I have had to learn to drive again regarding the increased size and driving possistion over my much loved B7 but after 1 week i am now at one with it.
Wish we had this in North America. The Polo GTI too. Don’t miss the Passat wagon tho.
Hi must say I agree with you after having lots of cars this is the one I’m having must fun with. Makes me smile every time I drive it. My only gripe s really are the inside of the windscreen when it’s been frozen overnight and the tyres.....
Interesting point you raise about the value as you will be aware the CAP value is about £9k .... shocking really.
Best addition to my car is the electromagnetic reverse sensor. Cost me £9.00 and works a treat when you need to keep your car tight when parked.
CAP valuations are a joke in many cases and ultimately they are just a guide. I've had mine advertised at £13k recently and it was attracting interest. Keith Morris (where are you?!) has been offered £10k+ for his car with over 10k miles and zero options and that's trade. £13k is dealer retail for 4k miles with options - I use that figure the car was bought new from a main dealer for £13850 and that was a retail (rather than trade) price so only fair to compare the used dealer retail price with that.
@@volkswizard Andrew , WBAC £8650 WTF!
Auto trader trade-in £10600 valuation
Auto trader private sale £11660
Had thought about losing mine for a very short time and was offered this price at we’ll know dealers!, appears they do not like it when I WBAC or CAP theirs. Most dealers are putting £5k on top of CAP and then state when they offer rock bottom for yours it’s a solid offer. It’s a joke you are right.
Just one last thing could you post a test on the GTI TCR if you get chance thanks
That's based on CAP's valuation - CAP should stand for ' Can't Assess Prices'
I'd love to do a test of the Golf GTI TCR - if VW UK won't ask me along, I'll have to go to Germany for this one and find a friendly dealer.
I really enjoyed your run down on the up GTi, I am a big fan of this car, and although I don't have the VW up in any form yet, I do run around in the Citigo which essentially is the same. When I purchased it some 3 years ago, I had a choice, fiat 500 with options galore, or the Citigo, what struck me on the test drives was that the fiat turned out to be the most boring car I had ever driven, but the Citigo, well, it put a big fat smile on my face, needless to say I parted with my cash and drove home in it. Now I am hooked on this car and I am still not bored, which is a big deal as I change cars pretty quickly. I do hope in a year or so I will be in a position to upgrade to the Up GTi, I am certainly trying my hardest to resist the temptation to trade Up now.😂
Hey Scott, I must try a 500 especially Abarth as they seem to be a rival and yet nobody rates them over the Up! GTI. Citigo is a great car, if you like that you will *love* the Up! GTI, whenever you finally get behind the wheel 👍
@@volkswizard I do admire the look of the Arbarth but still it is the curse of Italian engineering I fear, not to mention the dull experience I have already had, no, I always promised myself another hot hatch after I watched my mg metro get towed to the breakers many years ago and the Up certainly ticks that box.😂
Many people complain about the up for one thing or another . The up is how the golf first started .
Lightweight , nimble and fun.
I've had mine (black 3 door) for about 6 weeks now and I love it! Really pleasantly surprised by the fuel economy as I haven't exactly been making an effort to drive economically! Also everything just feels solid and well built. Feels like a much bigger car when on the motorway but when driving down small lanes you see the advantages of it being such a small car. Would highly recommend if you want a small car that's a bit more special and truly affordable!
Well said Alex!
How does that (IMO silly) fake engine sound through the speakers work, can you turn it off and if not does it get annoying on longer journeys?
TBH I don't notice it - I hated it in Golf R but in this it just sound like the engine. I haven't even looked to turning it off but I don't think it's electronic like in the Golf so you probably can't but not sure, it's fine!
Wow you make the up gti sound really desirable. Thanks.
Thanks Sean, glad you enjoyed it. It's probably a good time to point out that I have no agenda. I'm not being paid by VW (wish I was), they wouldn't even lend me an Up! GTI when I asked for one before mine arrived. In fact they were a bit annoyed I made a video review in the UK in January 2018, 3 weeks before they had their UK press cars ready and we've had very little contact ever since. I'm just expressing how I feel about a car that for once has been better than I imagined and is affordable, a rare combination with modern cars.
volkswizard I was trying to convince my partner for us to buy one but I didn’t succeed as well :(
Just bought my wife a 68 plate with 30k on clock in the red the same as yours and have to say she loves it, slightly noisey through the boot, could of benefited from some sound proofing in there as well as under bonnet but its a great little car.. although in 2024 June value is not so good we paid 11500 which is crazy froa 2nd hand car but sadly thats the times we are in, prices are not dropping much post covid shortages.
Excellent video. My tornado red Up GTi is being delivered this week. 19 plate with just under 40k on it. Identical to this one. Looking forward to it..sounds a fun little car.
Very nice! Enjoy, it is a very fun car
@@volkswizard thanks. Had it two days now. The fuel range is confusing though. I filled it to the brim with super unleaded and dash says I've got a 250 mile range. Strange that 🤔
Was looking at either one of these or an abarth 595. Went for the abaerth purely because one popped up at a nice price and the sound it makes is second to none in the small 4 cylinder category, and 180hp is mega fun in such a small car. Love both though ! trying to tempt my girlfreind into getting one of these so i can choose between the 2 every morning ;)
Really like these. My choice would be red 3door aswell. Tornado red doesn’t get as much love as it deserves. Few mods and i reckon i’d be pretty happy with one of these as a daily.
What would you do Jack? I'd do tyres, wishbone bushes, maybe exhaust, panel filter, headlight bulbs. Slightly uprated dampers might be nice but because it's so light it would be easy to make it too hard.
volkswizard tyres, wheels, exhaust, filter, map and probably a few bushes and roll bars. Lowering springs. Wouldn’t go mad. I can see these as having a good amount of aftermarket support in a year or 2
I have finally gone ahead and ordered one. You inspired me to get the black roof although Tornado red was always going to be the colour of choice for me. Mine is also a 5dr one compromise I had to agree to but I think it still looks great. I have also added light & sight with cruise & park 😀
Actually practical with seats folded down too
Yes it's not too bad but I didn't include that because I struggle getting wheels and bumpers into it.
Great video, thank you. I have recently purchased one & I agree with all your comments, the perfect car for driving around the small roads in Guernsey! Love it, she’s/he’s a cutie!
Ahh Guernsey! Yes the perfect car for around there. Never been but would love to. Are there many over there or just yours so far David?
I like the way you look at cars. i really do think this car has what i need. when i said i like vw up most said its like a toy.
Though im only unsure about its price.. i currently own an older BMW thats very good daily driver for me and is not worth much. not sure what to decide, Up is cool but bmw (e36 compact) is bigger and really different purpose.. hah got to make up my mind, time will tell, im happy with my e36 in a similar way you are with your up.
Love this review. I think you need to put the seventh thing that you love. The smile on your face overtime you drive it
What l love about our Up GTi is that l got one before VW stopped making them!
No more orders after March 2019. “Up” to be all electric from 2020.
E-Up GTi anybody?
What can you get out of a tank? Not so concerned with mpg from a running cost POV, more that on my work run you have to go out of your way to find a fuel station. So being able to go weekend to weekend without a fill is key....330 miles. Might be a bit of a stretch?
It depends how you drive but if there is some steady speed driving 40-70 mph I don't think 330 is impossible but mpg varies from 40-70 so range varies accordingly.
@@volkswizard thanks for the reply. It does seem possible given what I saw here. I used the range values and the number of fuel marks left to work it out. But not worth a squirt if you can play with the loud pedal every now and again.
I know the up is actually quite a civilised car in general, but it still has a short wheelbase. Does it Bob about on the motorway? Can you just kick back and relax in it if you just want to get home without driving like you're arse is on fire?
So what’s your speedo error. My cactus is 3 mph at 30 increasing to a 5 mph error at 70 however my Audi TT 2.0 Quattro has effectively no error.
Another excellent video, this has made me so excited to get this car now and OMG that fuel economy though... wow, I’m genuinely impressed and can’t wait to get mine now!!!!
Are you in the UK Benjamin Batchelor? When's your car due and what spec have you gone for?
Tyres seem to come up alot. Would you be able to recommend the kind of tyres you think would be ideally suited to this car in terms of performance?
I'd love to but I am reluctant to be too specific as I've not tested any. If you search for big brand 195 40 17 tyres 4 are available I think, Dunlop, Continental and Pirelli (as well as the Goodyears). I'd probably go Pirelli but IIRC they all said to be rated worse on fuel efficiency than the originals which is a good thing in this case!
The car is a beauty, good review. Didn’t know it existed but after this review I would definitely buy one
Thanks MrMbisher, glad you enjoyed it, hope you enjoy the car also (when you get one!)
Great looking car and unlined boot and door caps add to the utilitarian appeal and importantly keep price low - VW needs to import to oz but lack of auto saw up struggle here where polo 70 TSI is the entry model - Swift Sport and Fiesta ST have niche followers. Would be nice to see a video on the Golf Cabrio you have in stock - iconic car but perhaps a bit cold right now in uk :)
I'd love to a video on that Mk1 Golf but as you infer, it's hard to get motivated about it right now. There is an auto option for some Up! models called the ASG - it's apparently not very good so probably better off not getting it :)
Hi you are a good reviewer....
i have VW UP 2013 model with DSG transmission. It has done 95000 km on odo and now i am feeling a bit jerks and noise when it shifts from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd gear but gets smooth after that.
Now please guide me with below three questions.
is it neceassry to change DSG transmission oil ?
is it the reason why gear shift make noise?
How do this oil will be hanged?
Looking forward.
@volkswizard I’ve currently got a Polo GTI 1.8T 6c, really considering an Up GTI but not sure about the build quality compared to the polo as to whether I’d feel it was a downgrade, what’s your opinion on the UP’s overall build quality after driving it on a daily basis?
The build quality is at least as good as Polo. What you may miss is the equipment - no one touch windows, no liner in the boot, no reach adjustment on steering column, pop out rear windows on 5 door. But it makes up for this by being much better on fuel, significantly more compact and - importantly - not trying to be a Golf GTI (unlike the Polo). If you are largely urban use, the Polo is wasted and the Up! GTI is just so easy and pleasurable to nip around in with all that torque. Also bear in mind rear space including boot is significantly less in Up! Both are good cars though.
Haha you've cited the one good thing about Drum brakes. Handbrake turns are pretty awesome with them...
They are!😉
Hi Volkwwizard great channel BTW :) Would you recommend this car for a daily commute, 28 miles each way, mostly motorway?
Hmm good question - I think you'd better watch the video where I give the reason why I am selling my own Up! GTI as that will answer your question quite comprehensively :) th-cam.com/video/Zy2ib0Pb7VE/w-d-xo.html
Andrew, are the brakes any good? Or more importantly the brake performance - do you feel they are sufficiently powerful to arrest the car from motorway speeds?
The brakes are brilliant Edward - have no doubts about that. Do not worry about the rears being drums, it makes no odds as long as they are well maintained. As well as being effective they also have really nice feel. Of course grippier tyres will help the brakes too as the ABS will engage less but even as it is, the braking system - for road use - is spot on, just like every other VW, whether disc or drum braked. It's a light car which helps too of course.
Hi. I have heard you mention the tyres on the Up Gti, and how it would benefit from better ones. What would you recommend? Many thanks.
Any suggestions? Cheers.
Hi Darren,
I haven't tested any but there are less eco biased tyres from Pirelli, Continental and Dunlop which should prove more suited to a GTI. Thanks. Andrew
I was debating between the up gti, abarth 595 (145hp) and the new swift sport. Decided to go for the swift sport because its bigger, while also being lighter and on top of that it has a bit more hp (140)
Suzuki have been clever to make a bigger car lighter and faster but the current SSS is also significantly more expensive than the Up! GTI and to quote EVO magazine not significantly faster in the real world. When I mentioned the SSS I was really talking about the previous model a) because it was a similar price to the Up! GTI and b) because it was apparently dynamically superior. I don't know why the Pistonheads guy decided to reminisce about old models but there we go. Enjoy your car, the more small hot hatches there are around, the better :)
Can you (or anyone else) offer any advice as to how quiet the Up GTi is on a motorway? Using a free iPhone app I put the noise in my current car on a motorway at around 90dB which seems extremely loud!
Hi Christopher, it's not terrible but it's not brilliant either. There is a fair bit of wind noise which is my overriding memory. However for the class of car I'd say it was acceptable. Best to go try one to see what you think.
maybe I just don't go into higher gears that much but 3:43 when you said you weren't doing much economy driving, seems you're doing just a bit under 40 in 6th. I'd probably only be in 4th on a 5 speed, so maybe 5th in 6 speed at a push - 4:02 didn't know you could cruise at 30mph in 5th wow
Andrew,
Will you now be running the UK UP GTi Collectors Centre now that VW are no longer taking orders for new orders.
Phasing out of UP, Citigo & Mii.
Good for residuals??!!
I'd imagine it will be very good for residuals yes, so if anyone wants to sell one let me know ASAP!
@@volkswizard Andrew , I'm so pleased that I managed to get my ultimate spec'd car,that I always wanted in the first place. Just had a couple of 200 plus mile round trips in the last week, engine ,gearbox etc . nicely bedded in.
Both drives returned average speeds of 52 mph - 55mph, returning in excess of 52 mpg ave, with best 59 mpg.ave
Do you know what, the ride was good and comfort on arrival, at both ends for this old bugger was that I got out with Zero aches and pains. WIN WIN !!
My dealer has now sold my old standard stock car , a really great buy for a young or old country road driving enthusiast or the city driver who can have fun outside the urban environment.
Tempted to swap my mk5 Golf gti for one of these, enjoyed the video too 👍👍
I've got one, it's great, in fact, it's that good, I've just ordered a new up gti to replace it!
Great car. Fit & finish and reliability are real benefits too.
Great video Andrew. Do you think there’s any point in changing all 4 tyres or would changing the front to sport contacts for example be enough?
Hi Mr GTI! Glad you enjoyed it :) I can only recommend doing all 4 as the car has been set up by the engineers on the basis of front and rear grip being equal. That's what has stopped me doing it so far (the cost).
I cuddle my Up! too sometimes. My wife thinks I'm nuts :)
I have an MX5 RF and want to get rid of it....what's the room like in these as I'm 6ft4...
1:53 do you happen to know if it is possible to active OIL temperature with VCDS? That's a lot more usefull than coolant!
Might be test driving one of these next week but it's a 71 reg which doesn't seem best to actually buy as it's priced I think at £17-18k... hoping to side by side vs an Abarth 595 or a Fiesta ST mk7 perhaps
That’s too dear, prices are about to slump so sit tight. You could get a new one for around that if you factory order. No experience of other 2, I like the idea of the Abarth but the interior is a mess. Fiesta ST image isn’t the best but it’s a decent car and in a different league to UP
I've enjoyed your videos, about the VW Up! GTI. I've got one on order, and I've been reassured that trading in my 2016 Polo R Line was the right decision. Did you have to order the cradle and VW leads for the phone, or were they standard? I can't seem to get a definitive answer from VW. Thanks
Hi Jan. Glad you've enjoyed the videos! The cradle and leads were definitely standard when I got mine but it's not impossible they might have been deleted from the spec but that's quite unlikely so you should be OK. Cradle less likely than the leads to be missing and leads easy enough to get. You can use a standard Apple lead anyway. Hope that helps. Andrew
@@volkswizard I've got my Up GTI, and up to now, I'm very pleased with it. It's lovely to drive. Not as luxurious, if that's the right word, as my Polo R Line TSI, but definitely more fun. I'm still discovering things it doesn't have, like s mirror on the driver's visor. The handbook says it's got one, but it ain't. Also, the door lock and window buttons don't illuminate.
Really taken a shine to this small car , even more so with the Mpg /running costs .... is it time for my remapped TDI A2 to retire from daily use ?
Great video 👍🏻 I am struggling to decide on colour? Red looks great but I also like the silver and white. Did you struggle choosing a colour?
Thanks Jobe. I struggled to choose between red and white but went for red as didn't like the white inside. I wouldn't do that again though as the red paint on doors inside and the off-red dash inlay began to bug me so it's white or Tungsten (definitely not black!). Tungsten was £550 vs £250 for white but you might get that back on resale. Pan roof is also massively desirable and I gather not available on the new Up! GTI that's just come out.
volkswizard i am absolutely gutted if that is the case regarding the panoramic roof if no longer available? I might just have to look for a used Up GTI with panoramic roof? I used to own a like new Lupo GTI and it was a hoot to drive. I do love the idea of the Up GTI having the extra torque. I used to have to ring the neck of my Lupo to get the best out of it. I’d rather just have fun within the speed limits. I think you are spot on regarding the colour black and the mismatched red dash against the red doors? I think I would have been tempted to have some sort of wrap added to the inner front door that matched the dash that then faded out half way down? The dash was an interesting choice by VW. It’s the one thing I am not 100% on? Do you still have your Up GTI?
Can you test the new VW Polo GTI when it will be avaible with a manual gearbox?
Hi Alex - I'd love to do that, just need VW UK to lend me one for a bit :)
@@volkswizard Great! Thank you!
Bit late to the party here but . where did you get that cable for the phone charger. do they do one for Samsung phones ???
nvm i found it :D
Hi. My Up GTI will arrive 3 weeks from now. I wanted to ask you about rims. I will buy 195 45 R16 winter tires so I need another set of rims for that. I don't know much about offset and stuff like that. My friend told me that 6J and ET43 would be enough for R16 rims. Can you confirm that ? Honestly,any help would be great :)
Hi Davor. Your friend is correct at there are many wheels available for Up! from the factory that are ET43 and 6Jx16. I should point the factory recommend these 15s shops.volkswagen.com/en_GB/web/zubehoer/p/leichtmetallfelge-merano-5j-x-15-brillantsilber-1s0071495a-8z8-14?category=4315:904_VWZ_OZ:Category
@@volkswizard Ok thanks.Vw also answered me that their specs are 5Jx15 with offset 33.But I would like R16 rims.Can you tell me offset for that rims? Because 33 is for R15 and 43 is offset for R17.What kind of R16 rim should I buy? With 6.5J and what offset? 43 offset is for R16 and R17 rims? It can be same offset?
So for winter tire 195 45 R16,I can buy rim 4x100 J6.5,with offset 43.And that is fine?
All I can say is the factory fit 6J x 16 with ET43. A 6.5J wheel with ET43 isn't on the list so I can't comment, clearance is tight so I can only recommend what VW fit.
@@volkswizard Ok,so ET43 is for both R17 and R16 rims.That is good to know.Thank you so much for your help.
One more thing.
Tire with dimension 195 45 R16 will fit nicely on 6Jx16 ET43 ?
As before I can only recommend what VW suggest and on that rim it's 185 50 R16. I went one size up on my Mk5 GTI (both tyre and rim size (7.5J to 8J 225 to 235) and I had to make some major modifications and it still rubs a bit. Probably best to ask on a forum and see if anyone else has done it. Bear in mind a 195 45 16 can vary between different manufacturers or even model so one may rub and one won't.
Another great video!! Question - do you think VW will make an even 'hotter' version with more power, better handling/brakes and improved cabin/seats?
Not sure, start spending big bucks and you can get close to the Polo GTI £20k. Can they get more out of that 1.0 reliably? If so they'll have to go 4 pot or go 1.2 3 cyl turbo. I'd like better headlamps, better tyres, better seats, better suspension. Brakes and power are OK but they will no doubt at a few hp.
@@volkswizard - have you tried the Miltek Up! gti as reviewed in a recent CAR magazine? It has more power, improved suspension and very tasty oem-looking Cobra front seats (plus a few other things)? If not - it would be interesting to see if you can get your hands on one and review it for your channel....
@@mrmarrow8918 I asked them, they said maybe, I said mags are good but video would allow exhaust noise to be demonstrated, then I never heard anything off them 🤷♂️
Great video and very helpful and enjoyable stuff. I drive big engined hairy arsed stuff rather a lot, but I'm just as happy zipping about town in our 11yr old Toyota iQ. 28yrs of the car trade makes you a little numb to most stuff. Having just sold my car (BMW monster of a 640d M Grand Coupe) - I need some summer wheels, and I just have a feeling that an Up GTi will be a hoot to zap around in. Thoughts on the various Bilstien/Miltek and Stage 1 remap mods being undertaken on them? Thanks, Ed
Hi. This a bit left field. Was thinking off getting an iq. Like how different it is. Thank you for reading.
really enjoyed this video i drive a b200 amg line mercedes and i think im going to swap for one of these things damn good video pal !!!
Thanks Craig! Well the Up! GTI *is* a great car but it does have its limitations so make sure you are OK with its somewhat basic nature and try and get a decent spec (at least with cruise and park pack) to minimise cuture shock from the Merc
Great video nice to see a quality review. I really would like one for my commute. Can you buy these new. I’ve been on the VW website and can’t find it on the car configuration section?
Unfortunately VW discontinued the Up! GTI in late March 2019 - I have a nearly new one for sale at www.volkswizard.co.uk available immediately.
Hey thank you for message. That’s a shame they discontinued it. My current lease runs out in July so I’ll be looking then
@@DrewB1974 It might be back on sale as a revised version later in the year. Curiously TSI 90 seems to have gone too.
I really wish Volkswagen would bring the UP to the USA.
I'm considering the up gti myself but am concerned about a hard sporty ride anyone ?
Do u still have the itg filter in, that's really good mpg with a performance filter
Good question Duane - no the car is 100% stock.
Why do u take out the itg filter?
The filter came out as soon as the fitting video was made because the car has been for sale ever since and is being sold as unmodified.
I thought you'd sold it. This video seems contemporaneous with the R8.
No, not sold yet. Ideally when I move house the car will be sold as it will no longer suit my needs as commuting will be mainly motorway. I will be sad but can't afford to keep it for sentimental reasons and can't afford to stick a loads of boring miles on it doing journeys it's not well suited to. But for the moment, let the fun continue!
mines not done a 1000 miles yet,scary buy price at we steal any car.com £8675...stand and deliver!
another 5*Vid
A main dealer will pay a lot more - the more people that see the ridiculous pricing from the WBAC the more people will realise what a joke they are if you are selling a good car - if you are selling something with a horrible hidden expensive fault out of warranty then let them have it!
WBAC is just your bottom line, they offered me £3500 on my RS133 yet VW gave me £4500 and now have it up for sale for £5799! Take all used car prices with a pinch of salt.
The big one for me would be the shockingly ugly body shape. If you are just passing your test don't think about this as your first car, insurance will be sky high and you need to learn to drive before getting anything with power. Things will get better as you get experience.
I am toying with the idea of buying one. Will these become modern classics?
Would love to see a Volkswizard review of a passat gt or r line
Looks like a fun little car.
Yes indeed Richard!
Do the rear passenger windows open
No, not at all on the 3 door and on the 5 door they only hinge open a bit.
60+ mpg and look awesome I need one.
..and they are a hoot to drive too Stephen :)
How easy are they to tune. Exhaust Ecu. Can u get bigger turbos for it.
@@stephenphoenix-roberts9447 I'm not the man to ask as I don''t believe this car needs more power as it's a handful as it is and all you will do is trigger the traction control more often. But I gather Milltek run a tuned one, not sure what they've done about the TC though.
Probably a great car to own and commute in, but hardly a hot hatch compared to the Swift sport is it? Also the swift is reliable, according to the JD power survey.
Swift is £17500 (that's with £1000 discount that is being advertised). Up! GTI 5 door is £13800 ish with £1000 off. For what you get for your money the Up! GTI is massively better value. If I want the definitive hot hatch, neither are going to hit the spot so I'd be looking elsewhere anyway. Plus I am yet to see a Japanese car that has an interior that doesn't make me want to vomit and I don't think the SSS is going to change that. Oh and I didn't see the SSS in the EVO Car of the Year test, if you are wondering why here is a clip from their review of it - "The previous Suzuki Swift Sport always had value on its side, but with a price of £17,999 the latest model faces some stiff competition. In real world performance terms, it doesn’t feel massively quicker than the barely any less spacious VW up GTI, which in five-door form weighs in at a smidgen over £14,000". But if you'd rather have a Suzuki badge for more money than a VW badge then don't let me stop you :)
Lupo GTI is a hoot to drive!
Are you referring to a 100% standard car as most are modified and that usually involves the suspension. As you can see in my Up! GTI vs Lupo GTI the standard chassis is very poor.
If anyone is not happy about the power then go to a tuning specialist and tune up their up gti
I don't necessarily recommend that as the performance is probably the best bit, tyres and suspension are much weaker
@@volkswizard nope it is about performance. Any hatchback with 150bhp will beat this car in a short race on a quite road without any speed cameras.
Besides…You can’t call a car a hot hatch if it doesn’t have the performance. I have seen videos on TH-cam where some people have tuned their up gti up to 170 bhp and that’s more than enough power to give it hot hatch credentials.
@@vhira it's a warm hatch
67mpg = boring. I do 30-40mpg = fun.
Great Andrew,been waiting for this.
Did it meet your expectations Keith?
@@volkswizard Yep on the money Andrew, your journey to prove the fuel consumption, engine efficiency, I can replicate ,as I have visited my dentist about 30miles each way on several occasions and pretty much achieved the same, not driving too the eco change indicator, over some lovely twisty A,B&C roads, Devizes -Wilts to Dursley -Gloucestershire. 65- 67mpg. Combined short, Urban, M/way , tank neck typically recording averaging approx. 57mpg running Tesco's Momentum fuel 100%. Engine pickup from 2500 rpm -5000rpm, great pulling power for this small capacity engine. Smile a mile for me! Yeah agree about tyres, good for economy but as you describe ,when pushed grip is lacking. Need to look at options for sure when I change. Wear rate is good though, as at first service 9500 miles ,tread depth at 5mm all round for fwd car. Also agree I just love the A,BC, road running,like you my preference is too use the twisty but quickish back roads.
I also agree about the design profile, features, cheeky yet very efficient internal and external concept, hence the popularity of UP, Citigo & Mii. ,winning the small hatch car of the year over several years in fact.
Love mine, hence I am about to take delivery of a new high spec'd replacement .
@@volkswizard
th-cam.com/video/BBpYOWo5Nl8/w-d-xo.html
Hi! Why are you selling this lovely Up GTI :(
Hi Alejandro! I don't want to sell the car but I am moving out of the city and my commute will be mainly motorway where this car isn't at its best. It's fine as an occasional motorway car but there are better cars for that purpose and I don't want to add lots of miles onto it and devalue it by using it for boring journeys. I will buy another one day though I am certain. Thank you for commenting. Andrew :)
@@volkswizard Agree, regards Andrew! wish you the best!!
"6 things I luurve about my VW GTI Up"
why do you brit´s hate winter tyres??? you have more or less the same weather as here in denmark and under 7 c they will be better unless you driver in a big town wear the heat is so much higher the street´s are clear, and those diament cut wheels really easy get coroaded, but the 15" winter wheels that came with my tsi speciel are also a crap tyre they are falken.
regards
Sören
Hey Sören, I love winter tyres as you can see in this video th-cam.com/video/k4rO2CIs67g/w-d-xo.html So far in the UK we've had a mild winter and it's actually not been below 7 degrees all that often. Most winters have long spells where the temperature is above 7 degrees and that's when winter tyres aren't so effective. I think we are a little warmer here in the UK over winter as we get warm Atlantic air which makes things a bit less predictable.
Less is Moore! From Brazil
Pls brother tell me if it's possible to get this car on south africa
Doubt it brother!
@@volkswizard I really love it brother what if I buy it from there
And Ship it down here would it be possible
Be careful in those conditions I'th thlippery
I just love this car so much...😍
The VW badge is quite overrated; while they might be ever so slightly more reliable than their French rivals, they are nowhere near the standard of their German counterparts, even when compared with equally priced models.
You mean BMW and Mercedes? Agreed both brands are probably generally a bit nicer overall but the price is also higher!
Rather have an Abarth competizione.
Hi VWiz ... I sold my R .... guess whats coming next.
Presumably, going by the vid you are commenting on, an Up! GTI?!
@@volkswizard lol .... currently in a polo while my dealership track one down ....
I had to rewatch..👍👍
I might rewatch too, prob end up buying another if I do!
Can you pls either confirm or deny, you had a large discount on your car, providing you relentlessly plug and swoon over these wheezey budget runabouts. Thanks.
As I said in the video, not everyone gets the Up! GTI and clearly you are one of those people. If everyone did, I probably wouldn't so that's fine by me. You may have noticed if you watched the first 30 seconds that I previously made a video talking about 6 things that I don't like about the Up! GTI which was hardly a swoonfest. This one just redresses the balance. As for the discount, I got £1k off which everyone can get if they ask the main dealer. Bear in mind this car made the last 8 for EVO magazine's car of the year 2018 and when launched had a lead time of around 10 months as demand was that high so I'm not the only one who loves this car, but for my sins, I'm the only one who makes videos (the watching of which is actually optional....).
@@volkswizard I know it's got the journo's approval, and the lead times were a fact. But I live 30 miles from you and I've yet to see one? Can you tell me who is buying them? Young people pcp polo gti, it's got 'cred' and performance. Ps, I watch your content and enjoy, the mk5, Roc r, clubsport, rs3, r8😍. just don't get you on this one.
Read the comments Lee, the owners exist and are very enthusiastic. As I've said before, it wouldn't cut it for me as an only car but as a no hassle daily that's great on fuel, easy to drive and still a heap of fun, it's perfect. Even today I was driving it and couldn't believe how pleasurable it was to ring its neck and chuck it around - small, light and torquey is a surprisingly addictive combination - less is more and all that :)
Lee - If you enjoy driving and have driven an Up! GTI, I fail to see what there is not to get. For me they offer a superb combination of style, quality, use of space, affordability and FUN. If none of that is your bag, it may explain your negativity.
Lee, seriously, go and test drive one but keep in mind it's price and what the car actually is all about. you will absolutely love it. I admit I haven't seen many on the road myself either but the lead times are still long and it's holding its price in the used market so on that evidence, demand is high and for good reason!
Ssssssssid the sssssssnake