UP GTI TESTED HARD IN THE UK, A TRUE GTI??

READ MY 5-PAGE COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW IN VOLKSWAGEN DRIVER MAGAZINE. FIND IT IN WH SMITH FROM 21/2/18 OR DOWNLOAD FOR JUST £3.99 HERE -
pocketmags.com/volkswagen-dri...
THANKS TO LEE AND THE TEAM AT CHELTENHAM VW FOR SUPPLYING THE TEST CAR. CALL THEM ON 01242 362859 FOR A TEST DRIVE.
VISIT upgti.com FOR ALL 3 OF OUR UP! GTI FILMS, HUNDREDS OF IMAGES & THE OFFICIAL PRICE LIST INCLUDINGS OPTIONS
The Up! GTI press launch took place on 18/1/18 in Monaco but rather than go to the sunny South of France I waited just 5 days and thanks to Cheltenham VW was able to test drive the car on more representative muddy, greasy UK roads. There has been a lot of hype surrounding this car (CAR magazine gave it a 5 star verdict for example) so it was a genuinely interesting process deducing if all the praise was really justified. As a GTI driver for over 2 decades I think I have a good idea of what a proper GTI should be like and in this video I decide whether the Up! GTI is worthy of those legendary 3 letters on its rump. I should point out the roads were very slippery and the Goodyear tyres very new so I was unable to provide an ultimate verdict on grip and steering feel but everything else is covered - any questions feel free to post comments I will answer them as best as I can.
Clarifications:
I am six foot tall and as well as being OK in the back, the driving position was spot on even without reach adjustment of steering wheel (just like a mk2 GTI!)
You can order automatic climate control instead of manual air conditioning for an extra £265
The red colour on the doors is only on red cars - it will be whatever the body colour is.
Heated seats are standard
Bluetooth is standard and is the easiest setup process I've ever come across - the head unit is asking for a connection without any prompting.
Parking sensors and cruise come as a bundle for £300.
You can add a rear view camera to this for £180, presumably the display screen will be your phone!
Trip computer is standard.
Red is the free colour, Pure white is £275, Deep black and Tungsten silver (aka Dark silver) are £520
A contrast black roof is just £125
Front Assist emergency city braking which oddly includes auto head lights and panoramic sunroof are two other options.
The usual Up! £1800 scrappage discount for older diesels has yet to be confirmed for the GTI model (as on 24/1/18)
Height adjustment of the passenger seat is not standard on 5 door models and I'd highly recommend it at £75 as if you are used to a Golf you will have become used to it and it does make the car appear low rent to passengers without it.
The order books open on 6.2.18 but you should be able to submit your order with the dealer along with a deposit to get first in the queue.
Factory ordered cars are due with customers March/April (not late Feb as stated in some reports).
I've ordered mine I was so impressed (red) and can't wait - will make a follow up video soon explaining why

[@MM-ew3hu]

Since watching your review, I’ve had a test drive and placed an order on a 5 door! Your review is the best available to date I reckon so thanks once again. I may well miss the sheer power of my Golf R estate but I just found the little Up a lot of fun to drive. Are you tempted to part with your own cash or do you prefer your current fleet?

[@volkswizard]

Hello M M, thanks for commenting. In my written road test of this car that is out in VW Driver magazine this week (21.2.18) , I end it by saying "for some people, it may even be a case of less being more" so it's no surprise that you are swapping your Golf R estate for one, however great a car that is. In response to your specific question, on the day I filmed this I placed an order for a red 3 door, black roof, cruise/park, height adjust passenger seat and climate control. I am excited because unlike my other 3 GTIs (Edition 30, Lupo, Clubsport S) I can actually justify driving this one daily so it will brighten up my existence every day and its performance can be enjoyed in full each time I get behind the wheel, can't wait.

[@MM-ew3hu]

volkswizard That’s great news and I’ll need to check out your written review. Do you reckon you’ll make further videos of the GTI once you take delivery? I’ve gone for the white with black roof, climate and Beats Audio. I’m going to have a light smoke tint applied to the front windows as well as wind deflectors. I will probably change the front seat for something more supportive and will upgrade the bulbs once I can source the best option. I’m quite interested in Milltek’s new titanium tipped exhaust and will keep an eye on what the likes of Revo offer in terms of tuning. All stuff to look forward to!

[@cameronmilne3590]

Was the dealer laughing? Why would you want this sir?

[@cristianoghunaldo8197]

What's the price for that? I think I'll also put this car into my shortlist :)

[@volkswizard]

Sorry I didn't reply M M. Yes more videos are coming, 2 in the bag and at least 2 more imminent :)

[@richarddutchholland4780]

Love the reviews you’ve done on the UP GTI... The noise that engine makes is something else and the performance is more than adequate for anyone. Myself.... I never understand why people need 500hp plus cars to drive around the UK roads......

[@BrotherSabathius]

I love small punchy cars like this. To me, this seems to be a bit like an MX5. You don't buy one for their outright speed, you buy it because it's fun to punt down a twisty road, with suspension that is suitable for road conditions, not a track. I just bought an Up TSI, and I'm going to go try a GTI as soon as I can. If it is what I think it is, then I would love to buy one in a few years time.

[@davidhayes4814]

It is astonishing value really. It isn’t as accomplished as a mark 1 Golf GTI but that was very expensive. It was spartan and if you allow for inflation, it would be over £30K now. It cost as much as a Datsun 240/260Z at that time. The Dacia Sandero is ridiculous value too but so are housebricks. Value isn’t everything. Great video as always :)

[@SkillMinecrsft]

I went to Stowe School and I remember these roads too well. Especially in autumn when its foggy around here.... xx

[@fatwalletboy2]

the guy at the dealerships gonna love you. this review is superb.

[@volkswizard]

That's very kind fatwalleyboy2, much appreciated. I think the car will sell itself but the guys at Cheltenham VW have been very helpful and provided me last week with the options pricing that the journalists at the press launch at the Monaco launch last week didn't even have .

[@sparkford04]

Picked mine up yesterday, calculated my best route back from the dealership in Gloucestershire, across well known cross-country roads to my place in Wiltshire- so fabulous drive on mainly A ,B and even some C . Really allows you to get in- tune with that cracking torquey 3 pot, that smooth and playful 6 speed box with having some real fun with the handling. Loved every mile of the 60 miles "get to know you drive". Even allowing for the notorious potholes that we all experience. So at the end of it's spirited drive, average speed 38 mph, returning ,according to the computer, 54mpg. Happy bunny, in my UP ! GTI 1stday!!

[@volkswizard]

That sounds like a great run Keith

[@christopherreed442]

Nice review. Currently, I have a 2014 Fiesta ST with Mp215 kit. After 4 years with it, I do still really enjoy driving it, the performance has changed so much from the old Mk2 XR2 that I used to own . The GF purchased a standard 2016 1.0 60ps Up recently and I have been really impressed by it, so much so that I'm looking forward to having a drive in an Up GTI on Saturday.

[@christopherreed442]

And I put deposit down on an Up! GTI in Tornado red with black roof for July/August delivery. I have seen a theme of people appearing to trade in better and more expensive focused cars for the little Up.

[@mattluxton8802]

Great video! Seems a cracking little thing for the money. I'm a huge fan of the Up anyway so the fact we now have the option of a GTi version is brilliant in my opinion. Love the classic GTi features like the red trim and the tartan seats look ace! What surprises me is the inclusion of the MK1 golf GTi stripes along the sides. I'm very tempted to have a test drive! Only thing I'm not too sure with is from seeing these in pictures and videos they seem to sit quite high so would be interested in seeing how these deal with body roll.

[@volkswizard]

Hi Matt, thanks ever so for commenting. The side stripes I think make quite a difference to helping the GTI stand out from other Up!s though they appear to be missing on the black versions which is a shame as on a black Mk1 GTI they still managed to use them. If you haven't yet, please visit upgti.com for the latest info. Test drive is free so give it a go, just try and find a nice road so you can feel the magic!

[@sparkford04]

Put 250miles on in the first week of ownership, mainly around the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire country A B & C roads. Cracking fun car ,handles Well and that throaty 3pot revving 2.0k to 5k rpm. Brings a youthful smile to your face. In conclusion, loving this not so little package. Spare full size alloy matching spare , would be £350 including the the Goodyear Efficient from Blackcircle approx. £95.0 Approximately 400miles in a tank of fuel showing at the moment , after 200 brisk miles of the 250travelled so far. Happy Days!

[@volkswizard]

Hi Keith, thanks for the feedback, lucky guy! Which dealer did you buy from? Fuel range sounds brilliant considering the tank is tiny, £35 fill I think.

[@sparkford04]

Andrew, I didn't really worry me about waiting for my ideal spec, so mailed a few dealerships for opportunities to purchase a demo/pre-registered car that suited me. Locally I got a very positive reaction from Shelley and her boss at Blade's of Gloucester, who were brilliant and were prepared to release their very low mileage demo 5 dr in standard red. Many dealers wouldn't sell inside the 3 months but wanted to keep beyond ,because of their next available delivery not known. Some are selling at premium but I must applaud Blade they were not greedy bastards. Really glad I went for the 5 DR very flexible for my partners son and his girlfriend in the back , he is 6' 4" and she is 5'8" bags of space. He said he could quite easily do a trip to Scotland with one stop and not be uncomfortable.(bonus) My fuel consumption is, fuelled up with Tesco Momentum ( 99 Oct) filled up to top of filler neck. I could get 450 mile with out doubt. Just completed 700 miles in my first week on approx. full tank (neck) now on just above half full on gauge. Computer showing 54.5 mpg @ average speed of 38 mph.( will report actual measured soon.( my experience of VW computer is with in a k's knacker ) Whole mixture of Mway, A,B&C roads and a brisk and I consider a smooth driving style .(silver surfer -toned down a bit these days.) Owning my Golf R mk7.5 and Boxster 981 flat 6 manual, in recent times - this is my real smile on your face motor. Think you can see that I'm loving my recent purchase. So much agree with your comment on video, cracking VFM package.

[@iREVIEWitALL4U]

=love it just ordered the twingo gt as it has double clutch i cant do manual car any more after my stroke last year love it do ha an polo gtiprevious version

[@Puddingtops]

Cracking little FUN car ideally suited to our crowded roads with accessible performance. Just a shame the waiting list is so long.

[@AndySnap]

Great video review. Nice little car, less is more. I know that road well too, very messy surface this time of year. Warm dry, clean tarmac would really make for a nice drive.

[@DrewB1974]

Great review thank you. I’m downsizing and after this video I’m trying to book a test drive in the GTi

[@volkswizard]

Nice one Drew, I drive mine daily at the moment and this still a real pleasure to get behind the wheel, I hope you will concur!

[@peterlewis3540]

I p/x a brutally quick, two yr old Fiat Abarth 695 , for a delightful 3Dr Pure white Up GTi. Nowhere near as fast, but considerably cheaper to insure, far more fuel efficient, and believe it or not, JUST AS MUCH FUN TO DRIVE. The Up only needs two additions to its already healthy standard kit. A Milltek Stainless steel exhaust- £305, and magnificent quality, and a set of Bilstein B14 coilover suspension for £495, as the suspension parts on the Up are not the best quality.

[@sparkford04]

Andrew, Andrew, 4000 miles now on my UP GTi and loving it more and more. The keys get grabbed before the Boxster 981 or the Golf R mk7.5, both of which are high on my fav list. However, just given my Up,GTi a hard life, over the last 2 1/2 weeks Devizes to Bristol BRI hospital to visit my son who has been pretty ill. That's 1500 miles of brisk driving added unexpectedly. This car still puts a smile a mile into my journey of, twisty Cs Bs and As. Plus 70 plus down M4 and into the City centre M32.Loaded up with stuff and travelling using that torque constantly, yet still yielding in the 53mpg, with average speed into the mid to high 30 running on Tesco Momentum. I'm seriously loving this car. Bring on a Clubsport / Clubsport S version asap please VW . So yesterday Sunday 13th May, took my other son to Cyrstal Palace's last home game of the season, Devizes to Selhurst mainly M4 &South Circular ,100 miles door 2 1/4 hours ,no aching back ( my missus's Polo GTI 1.8 seats fitted would be better for side bolster support) , 58.8 mpg, at an average speed of 41 mph, as you can appreciate 60 to 85 mph plus at times, on the bulk of the M4 , except for Newbury Jn to Reading Jn 50 mph restricted road works. Return journey pretty much the same. Other than the road noise levels, not much difference to the Golf R on this trip, probably 15 mins longer each way and not quite so smooth or quiet but not an issue to either of us, still a smile day for us.. Lots of looks on motorway & South Circ and when parked up comments . So Countryside, long motorway and City / Suburbia, not an issues, all rounder amazing- wasn't really expecting than. Got your delivery date yet Andrew? Show less Reply

[@volkswizard]

Hi Keith, sorry to hear you son is unwell, hope the up! GTI lightens your mood at least. That MPG must make you smile too, I've seen over 50 mpg with under 100 miles on the clock. This is a real bonus as expected 40s, the fact it's so much fun and good on fuel makes it even better!

[@sparkford04]

Thanks Andrew, yep the genuine fuel consumption is a great plus. We agree, have some great youthful fun mate, coz this old bugger very much is.

[@davor1599]

Ordered mine today.3-door silver GTI with maps+more and beats.Now,waiting is only problem I have:)

[@volkswizard]

Delays are a big problem right now but at least it's a car worth waiting for :)

[@davor1599]

Yes.My car dealer told me that it's not the same thing with every country.UK has the biggest demand.They are expecting that my should arrive in December or first 2 weeks of next year.Funny thing, they told me that I'm the first person to order Up GTI in my town and after me,they decided to order one for ther car salon :)

[@justinevans1894]

Good video Andrew, very informative and slickly made. More like this please. Still think the seats look too unsupportive but I could be wrong. It sounds good!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Justin, appreciate it, stayed up late to edit and back up at 515am to finish off and start upload. All I can say about the seats is that 3.5 hours driving and I didn't think about them once. On track, as Misha Charoudin said rightly, it's a different story but it's not really a track car anyway.

[@Kofi_Mensahs_BurnerAccount]

The roads to Stow on the Wold are beautiful and would love to drive down there again when I get the chance.

[@volkswizard]

Indeed, just watch the tourists in nearly new rental cars and Mon-Friday, the thundering quarry lorries!

[@B7_WNJ]

Fantastic review 👏 I bought a Scirocco R from you recently and didn't realise you had a KZbin channel. This video came up in my recommendations and surprised me when I saw you in the thumbnail. Subscribed 👍

[@volkswizard]

Hello James, glad you enjoyed the review, thanks for subscribing and thanks also for buying the Scirocco R just before Christmas. Hope you are enjoying it and all its extras👍

[@MrSlubbo]

Hmm... I wonder if the Swift Sport is probably the better buy. Even lower weight, more kit, more power. Maybe a little more expensive. (but no massive amounts)

[@maxjones2722]

I’m buying a car at the end of the year and at the moment I’m thinking either this or a ND mx5. I have a work van which is a 2016 caddy which is great for day to day so I think getting an mx5 would make logical sense as a weekend car, but this car does look like fun and I’ve always had a thing for basic hatchbacks which are light and focused on driving

[@volkswizard]

Hi Max, have a test drive of the Up! GTI outside of a city and I am pretty sure you will soon forget the MX5!

[@monstrous_raccoon]

Love the UP GTI and this review 👏👍😁 Also ordered one without even driving it 😂😂 Because i know it will be fun.

[@volkswizard]

Hey monstrous raccoon. Thank you very much for positive comments. The up! GTI is definitely a lot of fun, it's also a nice easy car to get from A to B in when fun isn't a priority, but it's there on tap when you want it :)

[@autofascynacje]

I think this small car sound really good, much better than a standard base up! version. Good review 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks autofascynacje 👍

[@hammersfan1886]

Thank you for your reviews of this car.....I have now had a chance to drive it wow!!!!! Brilliant little car (knockers drive it before you write it off) love it so much I went and ordered it 😊😊😊😊 Thanks again

[@volkswizard]

Hello Bob, thanks for commenting. Glad the reality of driving the Up! GTI tied in with your perceptions from the video. I honestly didn't know what to expect. I don't script my videos or pull silly faces on purpose, you saw what I was experiencing for the first time and yes it felt good. I started my GTI time with Mk2 Golf GTIs in the 1990s and continued to drive them until recently when rust and high prices put me off. I ordered one too straight after making this video because the Up! GTI brings back the fun of the older cars with none of the silly 'future classic' over inflated asking prices, and for a good few years at least, NO RUST!😊

[@rogers8472]

Bob Vale wish people would stop opening videos with shit music

[@Sideshow_Bob]

I've ordered one too.

[@aj63]

Good informative video ;) What I don't get is yet again car makers like VW don't provide LED or Xenon headlamps, digital dash etc and features from the larger vehicles in the portfolio. If you're getting something like the GTI then spec should be the same across the range - only the car is a different size not skimped on with cheaper lower end kit. IMO. + This version of the GTI UP is slowest yet compared to the Lupo GTI - not really evolving as a sporty little hatch....... BTW - I agree with you about the interior sound in the Golf R sounding a bit like a Subaru, I have the Golf mk7.5 R DSG.. I've Owned Subaru's for many years (STI PPP & Spec D PPP) but moved away from them due to Subaru dumbing down that unique flat 4 warble to a boring mute on their newer offerings. (although kept the forester 2.5XT Yr 2006....). If you want a new car sounding like a Subaru of old I think you get the latest Ford Focus RS :-D AJ

[@volkswizard]

Thanks AJ & thanks for commenting. Fair point but look at the price! Maybe with Gen 2 Up! these things will come in but you can't blame them for keeping it accessible on price, the Lupo was too expensive, the Fox was too boring. They learned and the Up! strikes a good balance. It's most likable quality is that of its old school simplicity, drive it and you will forget about the gadgets, trust me!

[@m4xww]

Nice job, been frantically looking for UK reviews and found you on Instagram.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Max, glad you enjoyed the video

[@sparkford04]

Local dealership news in Wiltshire. WOW & WTF! "We have this morning been informed that the order books for the car have now been closed. Apparently VW have taken over 3,000 orders in the last 2 weeks which has completely overwhelmed their expectations and as such the decision has been made that no more orders will be taken until they are able to commit to a realistic timescale for delivery. Now how long that will take, again I can not tell you, it could be a month, it could be 6 months, I don't know."

[@michaeljohnson-li5nn]

No ACC and rear drum brakes! The rear drums are well known with VW forums for sticking on when parked, particularly if the conditions are wet. Having said that I do enjoy driving my High Up, I normally average 50+ to the gallon.

[@volkswizard]

You can order Front Assist emergency city braking but not Adaptive Cruise Control (you can order normal cruise control). Sticking on when wet also happens to discs and pads, I have to leave my Golf GTI in the garage with the electric parking brake off which usually means switch off, swear at it going on by itself, switch on ignition and switch off EPB

[@wwilll]

The grey brake drums don’t rust

[@jimbleworldwide4920]

Brilliant review! Going to test one next week, did Lee give any indication of lead times atm?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Jimble 👍I didn't really press him on this but he did put 30/4 as estimated delivery date on the order. All will be clearer on by 6/2 I expect

[@UriNordschleife]

Thank you very much for this review

[@volkswizard]

No problem Uri, thanks for watching and commenting!

[@TommyT_]

Steering wheel is the best part of the car

[@JakeBlackHawk]

Wrong side of the steering wheel :D Nice video!

[@volkswizard]

Hey, VladJoachim, thanks for commenting! Yep, it must be weird seeing our UK cars with the steering wheel on the wrong side!

[@loadinglevelone]

The spare wheel well can take a full size wheel. No space saver.

[@MM-ew3hu]

Thanks for the video. No test drive models available here in Glasgow but I’m seriously considering this as a replacement to my Golf R when it goes back to VW. Can I ask how tall you are and how you found the driving position? I’m 6 foot 3 and concerned that the lack of reach adjustment on the wheel could be an issue. I believe that the seat can be set quite low though? Thanks!

[@volkswizard]

Hello M M, good question. I'm six foot dead with a 32 inch inside leg. Seat can indeed go low. I didn't even think about adjusting the wheel outwards, it was perfect as it was but appreciate we get used to reach and rake. A standard Up! will be the same so trying one of those wont be a waste of time, even the seats are the same type. I drove it for 3.5 hours and was comfortable, even the thinly padded seats didn't cause any problems.

[@MM-ew3hu]

volkswizard Thanks for the reply. I’m 6 foot 3 with a 34 inch leg so I might pop along to my local dealer at the weekend and try out a ‘lesser’ model for size. You did well to secure a test car so early on!

[@gaycha6589]

I have Golf R. Wife has Up! Street. There is at least as much headroom in the Up as the R

[@MM-ew3hu]

Gay cha I sat in a non gti model at the weekend and there is definitely no issue re. headroom. Although it lacks reach adjustment, I actually found the steering wheel to be fairly well positioned. I’ve sourced a gti in Scotland and will be test driving it this weekend. Only then will I have a better idea if I’d like one. I just worry that I’ll really miss the performance of the R estate. With my commute relatively short, I don’t use much of the performance but a couple of quick blasts on a dual carriageway and motorway each day really puts a smile on my face. Difficult decision ahead!

[@codegrowth93]

I am so in love with this car, it's just so expensive in Denmark... Almost 22.000 GBP for the base model with no upgrades

[@volkswizard]

Hello Bo, the low price in the UK remains a mystery and I suspect it will go up soon as they've sold too many too easily which means they can still sell a lot at a slightly higher price. £22000 is a bit too much though as that is more than the new Polo GTI which is £20k - how much is the Polo GTI in Denmark then ?! :)

[@ben8090]

Great video. But how does it compare to a Mk 1 Golf GTi Not only in terms of driving but also what the Mk 1 would cost today?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for posting. I know the Mk1 is a legend etc but they drive in a very old fashioned way, with vague steering and poor brakes. The Mk1 engine is superb but I am pretty sure an up! GTI would leave it for dead in almost every situation due to better brakes and chassis and a lot more torque. Pricewise I'd imagine the best Mk1s could be double the price of a new up! GTI, £13750 will get you a decent one of course but even the best will drive in a very 'classic way which would mean they were unsuitable for the cut and thrust of modern motoring. Half way house is the Lupo GTI which is a modern classic but still drives in a modern way and a good one can be had for half the price of the Up! GTI - that's why I own one!

[@ben8090]

volkswizard . I'm sure the UP can do everything better than the Mk1,as can every other modern car ,but there's something about the Mk1 that feels SO right. ..a bit like your favourite pair of shoes /boots etc. If only they made an UP that looked like a Mk1,I'd buy it immediately.

[@volkswizard]

Now that would be something special!

[@bosse641]

Fun little car. Sure want one.

[@sparkford04]

Andrew , Have you had a build date yet. My local dealer tells me the UK ordering process has opened up,again but dealers are quoting minimum of 39weeks delivery lead time but no commitment to build date when placing order. I wonder how many ordered by UK buyers and also throughout EU. Is it going anywhere else outside these markets

[@volkswizard]

I'd imagine Japan is a market as it was with Lupo GTI. According to the tracker (which you can trust), my car is to be built next week and is due at dealer early June. This moved 2 months forward a couple of weeks ago from dealer's build estimate. it looks like everyone is moving forward after a lot of grumbling on forums. I don't think VW ever commit to a built date as a mighty behemoth like VW can't be that specific especially when the parts are sourced from outside contractors and therefore not fully in VW's control.

[@volkswizard]

Update, took delivery 17/5/18 and one week in LOVE IT!

[@sparkford04]

Andrew, Shame VW don't offer a space saver spare with a jack kit as an option with a boot fixing boss. Any Idea if one will be made available -probably eventually a £200 rip off option kit later.

[@volkswizard]

No idea if it will ever be a factory option but used kits must be available and can be from Mii or Citygo. Just make sure it clears those front callipers or it might have to go just on the back.

[@malcolmscott4150]

Wish we got this in Oz

[@volkswizard]

If they did a V8 version maybe you would :)

[@sparkford04]

So its 12weeks lead-time and growing. Even the few on VW used website have an average of 3 per car showing interest. Winner VW, right car right time imo.

[@34boilerhouse]

keith morris 10 months now according to my local dealer

[@tomhirschel8524]

Great review! Have the UP TSI !(89 BHP) UP GTI 113BHP....Does it have a larger turbo? Or just electronicaly tweaked? Shame it's still 1.0 L Should be 1.2 Turbo Maybe the "R" MODEL.Have you driven the TSI model? Slow down at roundabouts in second, does not pick up quickly...maybe gearing on GTI improves this?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Tom. No, I haven't driven the 90 PS TSI model. I don't think the GTI's gearing can be any shorter than the TSI as it will do nearly 60 mph in second which suggests tall gearing. However the uplift in torque from 160NM to 200NM will make quite a difference. I am not sure how it produces so much extra power and torque, seems a bit too much of a gain (relatively) to be just software. The engine code might tell us if its the same core engine. I will try and find out.

[@tomhirschel8524]

Yes,please do! Thanks!

[@volkswizard]

I've been told the engine code is DKRA, googled it and it nothing comes up so there's a good chance it's not just software as the last letter is usually the software version, first 3 are the hardware. Google would have brought something up if there was a DKRB, DKRC etc etc. Also A means v1, looks promising ;)

[@rafinharoxx]

the Up TSI gearing is 26% longer than the N/A Up, it's a really long gear ratio

[@rob.fisher]

Great video, genuinely tempted to get one to replace my golf r when my lease is up! Thanks for extra details in comments, very useful.

[@volkswizard]

A pleasure Robert, thanks for commenting. It's a great car, maybe not a great as an R but good in different ways!

[@koolade76]

Still contemplating this although I’d go for 15” rims due to the rubbish roads around here.

[@300ZCorradoVR6Z]

That was great, thank you!

[@volkswizard]

A pleasure, glad you enjoyed it because I enjoyed making it!

[@adamgti]

Lovely job, cheers 👍

[@sparkford04]

Thanks for a very informative review. I like the idea of this motor very much.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Keith, glad you enjoyed it. If you like the idea of it, then you will probably like it even more once you've driven it.

[@sparkford04]

Cheltenham is quite nearby so perhaps its a demo drive very soon. Love the Cotswolds A ,B &C roads - less potholes!

[@volkswizard]

True the roads are rubbish so head west next time I think. However in the interests of testing ride quality which wouldn't have been too easy at the Monaco launch they made sense. Some dealers are sticking them in the showroom so test drives not possible. Ask for Lee at Cheltenham, he's been very helpful both with the video and taking my order.

[@sparkford04]

What colour and spec are you plumping for? Waiting to get active on the configurator soon.

[@volkswizard]

The German vw.de site has a configurator live already and the options list with prices was posted on my Twitter account late last Thursday @andrewjchapple thanks to the efficient guys at Cheltenham VW - this was before the press even knew what they were! My spec is red, black roof, park sensors/cruise bundle, height adjust of front passenger seat (essential), after a lot of consideration I went for climate control too as it's functional but also looks better.

[@burkett1983]

Love the car but for goodness sake give it 4 wheel disc brakes!

[@MM-ew3hu]

In what way do you feel it needs them?

[@papasiera10]

did you prefer the white or the red color?

[@volkswizard]

I couldn't decide so I've ordered both, same spec apart from red with climate and white without so roughly the same price. I like the red on the inside so I think I am sticking with red, but then again I might change my mind!

[@stevesje71]

Great video!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Steve!

[@davidellis7305]

Yep this costs in the Netherlands about 20.000 euro`s. You are insane if you buy one :-)

[@volkswizard]

WOW! That's the equivalent of £17500! Is that to do with local taxes or is it just a lot more than the 1.0 TSI 90 PS which is £12000 here (13638 euros)?

[@davidellis7305]

Yep! I have looked up in the brochure. The local tax in the Netherlands is 6500 euro :-) for the vw up GTI. A fully loaded vw up without the sunroof will cost you 22.138 euro`s. Yeah the Dutch government is insane here. So many people will steal a car rather then buy one here :).

[@agee7777]

a standard 1.0 75cv 2018 is near 14000 here in Argentina.

[@NickRS1]

waiting on the new swift sport...

[@MrZekToR]

Nick JR Yes, so am I. I like the Up! GTI, but my 2016 Swift Sport cost me less than this car brand new not that long ago. This GTI has nothing better than the Swift Sport for the money. The Sport has a better spec all round, proper brakes and sportier suspension from what I have seen. The Sport even has a better cabin. Just goes to show that when VW make a car at a price point that matches other VFM cars, they can’t put a premium interior in either. But yes, I think the 2018 Sport will be dearer than this GTI. But I also think it will be better in every way, and 100kg lighter!

[@lbottrill9097]

Keep up the good work, Andrew. Lovely little motors. 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Lee!

[@AntoineZertyty]

I WANT ONE

[@calvinchann1996]

Except car prices don’t tend to follow normal inflation rates.

[@volkswizard]

Hi Calvin, thanks for commenting. So what do car price do in relation to inflation? I suspect they don't rise as much though it's a bit unscientific as you have to take into account how much the model has developed in the intervening years. The 125 PS Polo GTI (same engine as Lupo GTI) in 2002 was £14k ish and the 2018 model is estimated to be £20k ish though is a lot faster with 200 PS (just like a true successor to the Lupo would also need to be). The GTI Edition 30 was £22k with 230 PS in 2006, the MK7.5 GTI has 230 PS still but costs £6k more today, less progress for £6k there!

[@johnhyoutube]

Excellent review, roll on 6th Feb!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks John! A dealer should be able to take your order now along with a deposit and put you in the queue. Cheltenham VW certainly can do!

[@johnhyoutube]

volkswizard I'm ahead of you. Put my money down a month ago, just waiting for the 6th to finalise the order. I drove one last week and was very impressed, a return to proper fun motoring,.

[@volkswizard]

I'm glad someone else has found a VW dealer that's on the ball as last week I was hearing that many didn't know anything about the car. I've added some info to the description section of the video regarding options and prices if you haven't seen those, I posted the full price list with options on my Twitter feed on Thursday last week twitter.com/andrewjchapple in case you missed it.

[@johnhyoutube]

I'm in central Scotland so a limited pool of VW dealers to deal with. Some are really on the ball, some are clueless. I have another test drive lined up in a few days time. My plan is to order a car in silver, although ideally I'd like to see one in that colour before I commit myself, but no one so far has a silver demo car.

[@volkswizard]

Silver is tempting as it will highlight the black bits and the red bits but I can't justify the cost on such a small cheap car.

[@solobellimino2356]

rear drum brakes?

[@volkswizard]

Yes indeed, there is no weight on the back and even less when you brake so the fronts are doing all the work and they look quite big, poss 280mm?

[@MJ-YT-USR]

Nice video! and welcome to the UK's wet muddy litter covered roads little UP GTI.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks MJ! I usually drive around this area at weekends so I didn't realise the roads were covered in slimy mud and thundering lorries from the many quarries in the area. Can't wait to drive it in the dry on UK roads.

[@MJ-YT-USR]

No you did a great job, it would be huge challenge to find a road in the UK that isn't like that this time of year (which is a poor reflection on us). The roads you used were better than most of those I drive on. Cheers

[@volkswizard]

Thanks. If I get an invite to the UK press drive, prob in Feb, hopefully it will be better roads and better weather.

[@jazzhands7771]

Good review, but the "music" is an abomination...

[@volkswizard]

Duly noted (and you aren't the first nor will you be the last) 👍

[@iantownsend500]

The perfect daily

[@volkswizard]

👍

[@sebastianb5036]

Considered buying this for some time. Then I realized I can get a new Polo GTI for only 4k more. While the UP GTI seems really nice, it is no match to a Polo. Litle addition: No the car is not standard. The Phone Mount is an option. With 170 Euro it is the most expensive phone holder ever.

[@volkswizard]

Hey Der Spliff, thanks for commenting. Are you outside of the UK because the Polo GTI is estimated to cost £6240 (7000 Euros approx) more than the Up! GTI here? And the phone holder is definitely standard for the UK market.

[@sebastianb5036]

Germany. Reason I can get the Polo cheap is I've got an old diesel to scrap. Also with a more expensive car it is easier to bargain and VW offers more for the old car. Wanted an UP GTI with some extras. Would've got it for around 16X00. The Polo I'll get for 20X00. Base price difference would've been pretty much the 7000 Euro.

[@ianchambers2731]

The only thing i didn't like is the weird blackberry colour dash next to the red bodywork. Just looks like a horrible mismatch to me!

[@volkswizard]

The dashpad is actually a Tornado red type of red fading out to black so in the metal (plastic!) it actually is complimented by the body colour on the door and the black elsewhere. To be blackberry it would have to have a purple tint but it doesn't - I don't think the light does it justice.

[@ianchambers2731]

Maybe its just how it looks on the video!

[@ianchambers2731]

Perhaps not blackberry.....id call it raspberry jam

[@volkswizard]

Having looked at it again I can see your point. All I can say is that it's better than the cheap grey plastic cars like this normally get!

[@CoyoteRacingLLC]

Why do you say that the mk4 Golf GTI is not a GTI?

[@volkswizard]

Fair point - it's generally accepted that the Mk4 GTI (especially the 2,0 8v with 115 PS we had in the UK as a GTI) was the lowest point in the history of the GTI and without the looks of a GTI (no red stripe or special interior, wheels etc) or performance any better than 'average' cars it was just a badge with no substance to it. The 1.8T versions were only slightly better - for example why did they have dark wood dash inlays - IN A GTI?! Here's some press that describes what most people think;"The Mk4 Golf GTI isn’t a bad car by any stretch of the imagination but compared to any of the other cars we’ve brought to the track, it’s the most ordinary. Solid, well-built, practical - everything a hatchback should be. Just without the ingredients to justifiably call it “hot”." www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/classic/vw-golf-gti-drive-seven-generations-legendary-hot-hatch/

[@volkswizard]

Obviously your modified 2.0 GTI is a much more interesting car than the stock version.

[@stevesje71]

volkswizard I totally agree the mark 4 stock was such a let down and was met with poor reviews. The R32 redeemed the mark 4 before production was switched to the mark 5. The mark 5 brought back the GTI flame and the R32

[@CoyoteRacingLLC]

yeah i understand what you are trying to say now. TBH i was going to get a 1.8T and convert it into a race car but i wanted to do something different so i got a 2.0 and one thing I love about is that you can bash on it every day and it will hold up i have had it overheat so many times, hit red limiter for days, do burnouts, launches just bash it have fun. By the way the cart has about 145,000 miles (233,350 km) i will be going stage 3 in 2 months pushing 170hp. But i tell you those engines are something else. (German Power) nice car review by the way. you deserve more subs.

[@gaycha6589]

Remap it to 130+hp?

[@volkswizard]

I'm not sure it needs it but I am sure people will be doing this because it's what they do!

[@Sideshow_Bob]

When I have mine, it gets a stage 1 remap 140hp.

[@kaptinkeiff]

Bye bye clutchy...!

[@gaycha6589]

kaptinkeiff - its torque not power that does clutches. But, point taken, I am sure the sensible tuners will factor that in to their offerings

[@johnlabus7359]

This thing is tiny. In the USA, the Golf is the smallest car that VW sells.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks John. It actually doesn't feel that small inside and the diminutive size is a benefit on the narrow urban and country roads of the UK. Also it follows the Colin Chapman philosophy of 'adding lightness' which translates into a car that's a hoot to throw around as there is so little mass to upset things.

[@johnlabus7359]

We have some tiny cars available in the US market; it's just that VW doesn't play in that arena here.

[@iantownsend500]

I love this car

[@JDsGarage]

so the mk3 is a gti but the 4 isnt ? lol

[@volkswizard]

I can't go into every detail of what is and isn't a proper GTI but it's widely accepted that the Mk4 GTI 2.0 was the lowest point for the GTI brand hence why it was mentioned here. The Mk3 wasn't great but at least it was distinctive with its plastic wheel arch trims and GTI grille and side moulding badges, unique wheels, twin tailpipe exhausts. It also had 5 bolt hubs called 'Plus axle' when the lesser models just had 4. The 16v models were actually quite nice to drive and liked to be thrashed. Saw Kate from JKM Performance driving hers around Castle Combe a couple of years ago and she was the fastest car on track!

[@mrwick7961]

since wen did a subaru sound like a 5 cylinder...lol

[@volkswizard]

Which car has got 5 cylinders?

[@bign3ck]

I can't help but think that those huge wheels are a detriment to its performance , go down an inch and the gearing will feel better and the car will have a more snappy performance.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for commenting. I agree re smaller wheels improving performance but trust me performance is not an issue with this car, it's very snappy with all that torque. Making it faster is the last thing I'd do it as chassis and brakes can only do so much. The 205 width tyres aren't actually that big and are required for the torque. As for gearing, this is rarely set for performance these days, gearing has a big effect on economy and emissions so this takes ultimate priority - just look at Porsche and how they have hobbled Boxster and Cayman with a gearbox that can do 80 mph in second! And yet those cars, like the up! are still great to drive.

[@volkswizard]

Sorry up is 195 section tyres, (Lupo is 205)

[@vhira]

115 bhp is that it?! The Suzuki sport has 140 bhp.... wtf Volkswagen

[@volkswizard]

If you want hp going get a Golf R, the up! GTI is all about chuckability and judging by this review of the new Swift Sport, it fails in this key area ; " But perhaps the biggest disappointment is the new Sport has become a little too safe-feeling to drive. Turn into a tight corner carrying some speed, and the front-end initially sticks and then washes wide into understeer. Lift off the throttle and unlike the old model - and unlike its nearest rivals - it doesn’t tuck back in. No matter what you do, it’s virtually impossible to unsettle it, and despite its featherweight 975kg headline the Sport doesn’t feel light or chuckable."

[@vhira]

Yes but Matt Watson of carwow has reviewed the Suzuki Swift Sport and said it is a fabulous car fun car to drive plus it more practical then the up. The problem with VW is that they dont offer more then what their competitors offer. I mean look at the Focus ST that has about 250 bhp, the Megane Rs that has about the same, the Astra VXR that has 276 and the standard golf has just 220 bhp which is the same as an Focus Rs from 2002. Also the up maybe chuckable or nimble around corners but it doesn't have that shear acceleration just like the renault twingo rs 133 bhp or the abarth 500 140 bhp. Sorry but I was excited for the up gti but is has been a disappointment for me lets see if vw offers an r version with more power with a better interior and of course led lights rather then the old fashioned halogen lights.

[@volkswizard]

Not everyone will get the Up! GTI especially people who haven't driven it. VW GTIs have never been about ultimate horsepower, even the Mk2 Golf GTI had less than rivals but look how many survive today compared to the Astra GTEs and XR3is . GTIs are for people who appreciate performance but not at the expense of quality. Also unlike Japanese cars and pretty much all the cars you mention, they don't have interiors that make you want to vomit. The press have pretty much been completely in agreement that - for the money - the up! GTI is a great car.. As for Matt Watson, he's a great guy but he's not really a proper critical journalist any more as he works for Car Wow who partner with manufacturers to sell cars - think Shmee 150 but less punchable.

[@vhira]

volkswizard I prefer the new polo gti

[@vhira]

Tbh I think I underestimated this car. While doing some research on this car, what I did was, I compared this car to an 2009 Twingo Rs, and what I found was that the Twingo Rs was a bit heavier than the UP GTI, cos the Twingo weighed at 1002kg, where as the Up GTI weighed at 995kg, plus, even though the Twingo has 18 horsepower more that the Up GTI, the Up GTI has 147ft lbs of torque which is more than the 118 ft lbs of torque of the Twingo RS. Also, there isn’t a huge difference in terms of acceleration between the two cars cos, the Twingo Rs 0-62mph time is 8.5 seconds and the Up GTI at 8.8 seconds so yep overall, the Up GTI is a good hot city car. Oh yeah in regards of the comments of the Suzuki Swift Sport, it’s not worth buying that car as it costs £17k and for that price, you can buy an 2 or 3 year old Fiesta ST which is a better car, than the Suzuki.

[@elliottslab]

It’s nice but it’s not the legend of the Lupo gti

[@marcusskyfall]

That intro music is atrocious! Sorry to say...

[@volkswizard]

Hi Marcus, thanks for commenting. Each to their own, it's not really to my taste but seemed to suit the car. The video was edited and uploaded under a fair bit of pressure so there have to be compromises and nobody is paying me (apart from the pittance from views which wouldn't pay the fuel costs), Hope you enjoyed the rest of the video anyway :)

[@marcusskyfall]

volkswizard indeed I should have added that I enjoyed the video, very informative and comprehensive 👍

[@Liam-ly7up]

An UP GTI ?!

[@volkswizard]

Yes sir! Actually not on sale in the UK until the 6th February but it's a proper factory built car for sure!

[@Seemann74]

GTI with drum brakes = NO GO....and does seat dont look like they support very much, and this should be GTI ! I'm not further impressed :(

[@volkswizard]

I though that but a) look at the price, it's cheap! and b) go drive one, it's so much fun. The front brakes are 288mm which are much bigger than Lupo GTI which had 256mm. The seats are OK but you can buy a Cobra bucket seat with matching tartan for £700 if you feel the need. 👍

[@kaptinkeiff]

Or you could spend your however many £k on a used car that won't lose thousands in the first year, and will be a truly fast car, that's not like driving in a tin can....;) Kidding, to an extent - someone has to buy new cars after all!

[@BrotherSabathius]

Nothing wrong with rear drums on that car. The fronts do most of the work anyway.

[@MM-ew3hu]

kaptinkeiff But then, if speed is your ultimate goal then you’re missing the point of this car...and that’s from someone with a Golf R who’s just placed an order.

[@paulsykes1339]

You'd not buy it not because the brakes weren't capable but solely because it had drums on the rear? Words fail me.

[@daki_golfara0252]

LoL an UP gti hahahahha

[@mike_miller]

lol man try a proper mk2 Golf GTI, you will at least understand what "steering", "cornering" and "handling" terms mean. So you won't waste your words.

[@volkswizard]

I've been selling Mk2 Golf GTIs for over 15 years so I am pretty familiar with them and up! GTI will walk all over an 8v in both chassis and performance. Things have moved on. Mk5 GTI is a different story :)

[@mike_miller]

Well... then I definitely should try driving one. My experience of new VWs is based on driving Golf Mk6 GTI and I would say it has nothing special compared to Mk2 GTI. Yes, it's faster, it has more torque, it's quiet, it has a fast DSG transmission. But it's more like playing a computer game and I felt nothing - just another modern quick car. While Mk2 GTI (even 8v which I own) gives a true magic feeling of the road and cornering. The throttle is purely magic, it responds to every mm I push down. The engine behaves so different in the whole rev range, while in Mk6 GTI it's just more like "on" and "off" pedal and a dull consistent acceleration. As for UP!, i'll take a test drive to see if it's any different.

[@ben8090]

Mike Miller Try driving a Mk 1 and then you will know what it's about

[@volkswizard]

Hi Mike - the Up! GTI is nothing like a Mk6, it's a lot purer than a lot of newer cars and that is it's charm. The feel is actually more Mk2 than the MK1 which VW ruled out with the up! GTI to show a link to 'the original'. I've driven a Mk6 GTI and an up! GTI recently and the up! is a load more fun. The problem is modern cars are too capable for the use most owners put them to. If I was driving across Europe regularly it'd be the Mk6 but for mainly urban or country roads and the odd motorway trip (which is what most people do) the up! GTI is the right tool for the job and as well as being economical can be fun too. Go try one!

[@mike_miller]

Thanks! Now I get the main idea of Up! Just couldn't believe they made something different. I believe this one is worth trying it.

[@siclmn]

It looks like it has a loose steering wheel.

[@roconnor01]

That car does not look overly stable to me.

[@paulsykes1339]

Perhaps I'm getting old, "the 17" wheels make the car"...indeed, look like any other chavvy hatch, sadly. Still, i guess they're chasing the PCP loving yoof market so rubber band profile tyres are a real necessity on a car with such 'huge' horsepower. :(

[@Jasontvnd9]

Isn't the point in low profile tyres to make the tyres more rigid and thus handle better.... In a car like this with low horsepower surely its all about the handling? If all you want is straight line acceleration go buy a BMW 3l Diesel rep mobile and blast along motorways listening to classic fm.

[@volkswizard]

It's actually got a lot of torque which makes it feel surprisingly fast (200 nm) so it does need wide tyres to put the traction down. OK 195 tyres can be fitted to smaller wheels but to keep gearing correct, this would require a larger sidewall which would mean more slack in the steering. It's also important the GTI stands out from the rest of the range and wheels are key.

[@mcg_gary]

Such a horrid looking car, especially in two door.

[@denzel1989]

A woman's car

[@gaycha6589]

LFC shankss - well deffo not a sexist's car for sure...

[@markfuller1421]

Cock