VW UP GTI - Stage 1 REMAP - is it worth it?

[@sampatankar1977]

I agree, with a lot of this. I really want to sort the damping on my Up GTi. It needs to not bottom out so much, and be stiffer in corners. I would want discs at the back because local driving needn't require as long braking space and the car will already do around/at the speed limit around roundabouts without slowing down. I also agree on the decision for Assymetric F1's. I bought these because all the local tyre places were having trouble getting PS4's. I love the extra tyre wall, I haven't scratched my alloys since. They offer all the grip in dry, wet and crucially snow that I didn't get with the standard tyres. I get around 43MPG per tank of ~350 miles with a mix of fast motorways, some flowing B-roads, and mainly local 7 to 14-mile journeys. Can't wait to see the damping options!

[@TheCraigGroves]

Discs on the rear will make very little difference to braking performance. There is so little braking done at the rear. Upgrade Haus do a conversion kit but realistically it's mainly for aesthetics. Which you can't argue with. They do look better.

[@sampatankar1977]

@@TheCraigGroves Braking distances would be worth a test I reckon, as I think balance on the car is poorer due to the massive difference between front and rear braking capability.

[@TheCraigGroves]

I think it might surprise you at how little braking is done on the rear. Besides, drum brakes are fairly powerful, they just don't cope with heat and fade quite quickly.

[@sampatankar1977]

@@TheCraigGroves brake fade...therein lies the rub, as it were...hence want to see the difference...

[@mpick9404]

@@sampatankar1977 Honestly can't see rear discs making any difference at all. When you stand on the brakes hard, the braking system reduces power to the rear brakes to stop the rear wheels locking - to the point they're doing very little (especially on a light car like the UP) only way you'd generate enough heat to create fade you'd need to be braking while reversing very quickly😉 Happy to be proved wrong. But in smaller cars, I'm sure rear discs are more of a fashion statement than a real world 'upgrade'

[@davidhayes4814]

When they came out they were tremendous value but too much was made of their similar performance to a mark 1 Golf GTI….. same power but 200kg or more lighter. The similar 0 to 60 time was a testament to modern tyres as much as anything. That price though of £12K to £13K was astonishing ….. half the price in real terms of the Mark 1 Golf GTI.

[@volkswizard]

I liked the VFM so much I bought 2 and sold 2nd one for £1k markup but if anything this confirms they were too cheap

[@davidnewman399]

Glad to see you back and showing me the benefits of a remap. I have ordered a Tungsten Silver 5 Door and been given a November delivery date. It cant't come quick enough.

[@volkswizard]

Hey David, something to look forward to at least, won't be long now. I can't imagine they will be making them for much longer. Tungsten silver really is the colour for them so great choice (though there is no bad colour..)

[@andrewmcivor42]

@@volkswizard we've just bought a used A1 from our local Audi garage & the salesman mentioned that VW were ending production of the Up! Very sad, if this is the case - I really like the Up!

[@hanssoslow5374]

I love mine and brought it on your recommendations. It’s not the quickest car I’ve owned but easily one of the best and the most fun. It has a lovely balance, when driving it. I did put some better tyres on it, that made a big difference. I was looking to put some new dampers on but I think I will put this remap on the list as well now. Great informative video, thanks Andrew.

[@volkswizard]

Glad you enjoyed it Hans👍 You'll have an even better car with those 3 mods

[@RicsCars]

I'm running stage one (147hp), KW coil overs and Michelin ps5's. No issues putting the power down and sticks to the road with no body roll when you throw into high speed corners. A joy to drive! would highly recommend it! 😀

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

Stage 1 mapped on 98 by a VAG specialist. They had a special offer, so payed €380,- in total. Continental front tires, Billstein B14. No problems in the wet.

[@dont5363]

147 hp , No issues putting down the power ? Which power 💀

[@Murphy252000]

@@dont5363 I have none, mines is Apr but I have pilot sports on now..... Love it

[@thomasvick1]

could you send the link to your upgraded dampers.

[@boringwrx]

Have you done anything in regards of the traction control? Is it an issue with the map?

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

I've got a normal up with the 75 hp engine and I find that quite good fun to drive. A standard gti would be great I fhink. I might find the ride a bit too stiff though. One of the best things about my up is the compliant ride.

[@volkswizard]

I did a review of TSI 90 vs Up! GTI and yes the TSI 90 rode very well but boy did it roll in the corners. Somewhere in between the 2 would be idea as I agree, in a straight line, the non-GTI compliance is an asset but it's just not very GTI in corners.

[@mpick9404]

My daughter has a 60hp Seat Mii. I have an UP Gti. The Mii does roll quite a lot, but rides really well. I think my Gti with her wheels & tyres - assuming they'd fit over the bigger front discs, would be about right. In my opinion the Gti suspension isn't too hard or harsh (certainly compared to other sporty small cars - Abarth Fiats etc) But the rubber band tyres make it feel really crashy over anything but perfect roads. The suspension in normal UPs (or Mii) imo is still very good though. Emma's handles really tidily & the body roll just adds to the sense of drama 😊

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

@@volkswizard that's very true and I don't drive my up like a hot hatch, I just putter about, most of the time. I guess I don't need a gti then...

[@richcretrogti618]

Brilliant to see you adding some more Up! GTI content to your channel Andrew. I’ve subscribed for over a year as you provided some great videos when I was thinking about getting myself one. Ordered a new one on the strength of yours and owners groups reviews last August and took delivery 3 days before Christmas, absolutely love the car and looking forward to adding more power and upgrading the handling in the future. Also it’s great to see a lot of the guys on the owners pages commenting on your video. Please keep the Up! GTI content coming.

[@volkswizard]

Hey Rich C, glad you enjoyed this first Up! GTI video in way too long, need to make sure I keep them coming. What making this video did was remind me that I was right to get so excited about this car when I first drove one back in January 2018. It also gave me the chance to drive on roads I know well and pinpoint the weakness, all of which are easily sorted. Sorely tempted to buy one now to make it how I want it. Remap, tyres, dampers and that's it. I probably ought to look at forums more often but it's good to know they acknowledge the videos as that's a key part of getting the word out. If anyone wants to communicate directly, comments or even emails are very welcome. Enjoy yours, they are definitely more fun on the warm dry roads of summer than December as you've probably worked out 👍

[@allansr100]

Great video. I changed my GR Yaris for an UP! Gti. Haven’t stopped grinning👍.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Allan. Well that's a very interesting swap. Less is more, right?😁👍

[@JM00-v9c]

Well done ! good swap!

[@DR-lg6xr]

I did the same.... Sold my gr Yaris November last year.... Ordered a up GTi, which I got middle of march...... No regrets 👍

[@DR-lg6xr]

In fact the up gti was exactly half the price of the gr.... 😊

[@chubbybrown4real]

I went the opposite way after having 2 up gti's

[@Stevenrogers274]

You have lots of videos on the up gti. But you have not done a buyers guide video on the up gti yet. Be good if you did one like the lupo gti buyers guide or the mk5 gti buyers guide. Thank you

[@Tom_banx]

Great to see you back in an Up GTI. They’re just awesome. Hard to believe it has been nearly 3 and a half years since you waved me off as I drove my GTI off the forecourt with 8 miles on the dash. 22,000 later and it’s been bulletproof, (if for some sticky rear drums but that isn’t model specific), comfortable, characterful, economical, practical and mostly great fun. If a bit bouncy and noisy. Overall it has represented amazing value for money and has taught me a lot about good and proper driving. I’ve treated it like a member of the family and in return it has acted like a good reliable friend during a turbulent and stressful few years. They certainly have a distinct Herbie-like personality which makes them so lovable. I knew I wanted an Up GTI after it was unveiled at Worthersee 2017 but it was your channel that truly sold it me, so cheers (or Prost?) to that. You also sold me on the Clubsport idea… one day I’ll invoice you 😂

[@volkswizard]

Hey Tom, where has all the time gone eh? You'll love the 8CS as it's a more well rounded package and ruthlessly efficient at dismantling a B road but the cheeky fun of the Up! GTI is something I am sure you will miss. Glad it's proven reliable, it's funny how the clutch is more fit for purpose in these than 3x more expensive 7/7.5R manual but VW do some strange things. As you say it definitely takes a lot more effort to drive fast than any Golf which is part of the fun but does teach you to be disciplined especially in the wet and cold, just wish the TC was less of a party pooper buy better tyres should keep it subdued. Oh and by the way, it's me that should be invoicing you consultancy fees🤣

[@Tom_banx]

@@volkswizard Haha! The consequence of the ride is that you scan the road with hawk like vision for any bumps or imperfections that could destroy the heavy alloys or worse completely knacker the suspension components. To the point that when I did some track driver training with an advanced driver, he noticed that I look ‘down’ too much, rather than up - I’m so used to being frightened of the bumps to the extent that I used to drive the surface and not the road. This is why Up GTIs are even more of a joy in Europe, especially Germany. It’s also why I have a selection of ‘my roads’ local to me that I know are ‘okay’ from a surface perspective. I found venturing up into the Peaks and Lakes for great roads more of a stress at times than fun (and also why I avoid Northants and Oxfordshire like the plague). I’m looking forward to it being a bit more relaxing with a Golf.

[@JM00-v9c]

it's a cool car - I like them. You don't see many in that colour either.

[@volkswizard]

It is not the fastest colour but it is the classiest😍

[@JM00-v9c]

@@volkswizard haha that's funny. But now it's the fastest Up despite the colour. I've seen a satin grey which is also nice.

[@TheCraigGroves]

Hi Andrew. Glad to see some Up GTi content again. My car appeared on one of your earlier videos with the £10.5k of mods. I absolutely love it.

[@volkswizard]

Hey Craig, it was that car that swayed me to accept that remaps were not "missing the point", it had the APR map which felt very similar to the Racingline one, i.e. not night and day different. I think you car went to Cornwall and would have been missing a few of the parts that were in that video (intake and DV mainly and that awful non-res Milltek) but it's nice I managed to capture the car complete before selling it. The chap that modified it was middle aged and from a nice area near Edinburgh by the coast, he had a new RS6 but that was stolen while he was on holiday and wanted something fun and low theft risk so had a lot of budget to make the Up! GTI something special. Great car, enjoy it!

[@TheCraigGroves]

I've had it just over a year now and I love it! It's still similar to how it was when you sold it. It still has the Cobra seats 😍, I swapped out the Racingline panel filter for a Racingline intake but that's it under the bonnet. It still has the APR Remap and it's an excellent map. I've actually fitted 205 tyres a month ago and the difference is night and day. It's going in next week to get the rear bench trimmed to match the pleather on the Cobras too. I've also made a few small tweaks like red stitched handbrake and gear gaiter and some led bulbs. It's a special little car and I love it! VW nearly got it perfect with this one. 🤣

[@TheCraigGroves]

@@volkswizard I bought it from the guy that bought it from you in Cornwall.

[@thomascamp8869]

Had mine remapped by JBS - really happy with it. Went alongside the new turbo elbow for the face lifted models as well as a K&N panel filter. Have since also I ordered Forge’s induction kit but my only concern is that where is it going to be getting cold air from? The UP seems pretty closed off in the engine bay…

[@volkswizard]

Induction kits tend to use the same intake as the factory airbox which I think is in the grille area - my video where I fit ITG filter will show you that. I also did a video on a highly modded Up! GTI 2 years ago which had the induction kit and DV from Forge so worth a look

[@TheCraigGroves]

The Up GTi uses a charge air cooler which essentially cools the air after it's been through the turbo and before it goes into the cylinder. So it doesn't matter a great deal about intake temps as they are cooled before ignition. The intake is by the front grill but there is no holes there. Only in the grille below. You can buy a grille with holes but I see no need.

[@thomascamp8869]

@@TheCraigGroves where can you buy the grille with holes? The only thing I have seen is a bit of a dodgy mod where you have to drill through the grill and then stick an aftermarket part over the drilled hole 😳

[@TheCraigGroves]

@@thomascamp8869 that's the part, from Upgrade Haus. You don't need a cold air feed though.

[@Stayinthegray]

Six years and 65k miles. I’ve never had a single issue. Fantastic cars

[@andrewmcivor42]

Great video - I do like your content for things like this, a "real world" project. The Up! GTi makes a great used buy for precisely the reasons you've set out here. A fun car that can be bought & modified relatively cheaply - what's not to like? Always had a lot of time for the Up! - Mrs M has had 2 of them (a 75hp High Up! & An Up! Beats TSi - both decent & good fun). The Up! GTi is a tuners dream, for sure! Think I'd probably do the suspension first - damper upgrades are a great idea, I did this on an old Honda Accord I had (the one that the Rover 600 was related to) & it made a huge difference to the handling, whilst improving the ride too - win win! I drove an Up! GTi a couple of years ago (a test drive - my Wife was considering one), but they were an expensive buy when new. Seeing this, I wish she'd bought one!! Couldn't help thinking that the remap would work on other VAG cars with a similar engine? The Seat Ibiza & the Audi A1 30 TFSi spring to mind.

[@volkswizard]

Hi Andrew, Ibiza and A1 are probably more ready for more power/torque as there chassis are a little bit more mature as there are derivatives in the range that are more power than 115. Ibiza 1.0 TSI FR DSG is a great car and possibly better than an Up! GTI but it lacks the cult following and is a normal size car (think Golf 4) so doesn't have the Up! lightness of compact footprint which are a big part of its appeal.

[@andrewmcivor42]

@@volkswizard I'd agree with that - there's just "something" about the Up! GTi, for sure

[@angeloshanahan6239]

Pick mine up on Monday 😁

[@volkswizard]

Lucky guy, enjoy it Angelo!

[@angeloshanahan6239]

Thanks pal, having bc coilovers fitted at as close to standard ride height if you fancy a drive 👍🏾

[@mpick9404]

Great to see an UP Gti back. I have a white 3dr UP Gti. For me, I am happy with the standard power (although, I am in my mid fifties & maybe a bit too sensible!) I think it matches the cars other abilities (suspension & nagging traction control) But, I am definitely interested in a damper upgrade. Very wise move, I certainly wouldn't want less suspension travel. But the damping isn't great at all as standard...

[@volkswizard]

Hey MPick, you are correct, it's all pretty well balanced as stock and a remap will make chassis flaws and overactive TC even worse so I wouldn't remap without at least sorting tyres. I'm really looking forward to doing some research on dampers because it will be a really awesome car when that's sorted with decent tyres and 140 ish bhp and cruically a featherweight 1000 kg.

[@mpick9404]

@@volkswizard Thanks for your reply. I hope it's not too much fun - you'll cost me a fortune! 😉 So glad you're not just following the crowds & lowering or fitting coilovers to it though. Spring rates & ride height seem good to me, really happy you recognise this. Can't wait to see your findings👍🏻 Oh, you're dead right btw - I swapped my tyres early into ownership & yeah. Night & day difference.

[@stewartoetegenn9751]

Love mine, it has the full Racingline induction kit and Stage 1 OEM+ - You won't be able to stop smiling :)

[@-Mu-min]

How much ho does yours have?

[@stewartoetegenn9751]

@@-Mu-min 150 bhp

[@tomstewart28]

What difference has it made to the mpg ?

[@adrobbo84]

Great video, i live in Wiltshire, who would you recommend to remap an up gti? I know there are plenty of places, is it worth traveling 60 miles to R Line? Thanks

[@paulfoakes9708]

The GTI treatment to the Up! transforms the little hatch, there is little else like it now, it has a tremendously enjoyable old school feel and great refinement. As a fifty something I get a warm feeling to think that my mk 1 Up GTI may still be on my drive when I'm a seventy something. Great and interesting content throughout as always.

[@volkswizard]

You just confirmed that I need to get one as a keeper, just waiting for prices to settle. Glad you enjoyed the video Paul and thanks for commenting.

[@mpick9404]

Your comment could have been written by me!😅 I'm mid fifties & my UP! Gti reminds me of the hot hatch golden years & Mk1 & Mk2 Golf gtis... It's not complicated, not overpowered, it is just good fun. It gets all excited & hops n skips around enthusiastically on twisty roads & always makes me smile - when bigger more powerful hot hatches that take themselves far to seriously - don't 🤷🏻‍♂️ Mines a keeper, it will have to be prised from my dead lifeless fingers! 😂

[@bikersparky]

Love these! It was your original up gti content that first drew me to the channel

[@volkswizard]

Ahh well CAL, this video is for you then, thanks for not drifting away in the meantime 👍

[@TheCraigGroves]

I am the owner of one of the original Up GTi that Andrew had for a while. SK19JGR with the Cobra seats.

[@NiceGuyAidey]

I absolutely loved my months driving the Up Gti .... even now when i have the Mk8 R i still think about the Up lol .... nice easy driving, none of the beeps and pings and systems to switch off every time

[@volkswizard]

2 very different cars but good in their own way

[@thedarkknight1971]

I know you are performing your own test to check standard v remap, but, personally, in steps, I would first, free up air intake, then exhaust THEN consider remap, to get the best of the costings of remapping (obviously upgrading brake pads/shoes to offset the extra performance)... 🤔😏 😎🇬🇧

[@scottjones3782]

I’ve changed the tires as you suggest and it does make a difference- we are a two Up GTi family, my wife’s is standard tyres and she crashes over every drain so you can feel it jumping between cars - also a cheap upgrade. I agree on the damping - but I was wondering if 16 inch R-line style alloys would make as much difference? They are still quite big for a small car, and might just fit over the brakes up front? Having said that not sure they would be cheaper than changing the dampers?? On that point what dampers would you recommend?

[@volkswizard]

There are some Bilsteins designed for standard springs, look perfect but need to try then. 16s will help low speed ride but won’t improve damping, the extra tyre for might stave off the banging on certain bumps but it won’t make much difference to that.

[@Cranleyboy]

Ahh thanks for this. Nice to see you doing another video after the initial batch that kept me going and hyped up over three years ago as I waited an impossibly long time for my UP GTI to arrive. Looks like that remap is that little bit closer.

[@volkswizard]

Lead times were crazy even back then but hope it was worth the wait!

[@pauldavid167]

Same car I bought and Colour for the Cornish roads. I absolutely love it.

[@volkswizard]

Definitely THE car for Cornwall!

[@pauldavid167]

@@volkswizard I get a new affordable VW every two years and for 10 years I had the Polo 95bhp which was excellent. I made a dreadful mistake 2 years ago by getting the flashy polo beats. It was a weak 80bhp and I couldn’t get up minor hills. This GTI was the same price and my good God it’s amazing.

[@rasherbasher8203]

The more I see of these up gti's the more I like❤❤

[@volkswizard]

Just wait until you drive one, I'd say that's better than the looks

[@dog-bite186]

Thank you for another great video Andrew. Just moving lightly off track I noticed you mentioned running the Up GTi on Shell V Power 99 Ron petrol. It would be interesting to see how many bhp a stock Up GTi produced on Shell or another brand of 95 Ron petrol in comparison, just to solve the debate whether 99 Ron can produce more power gains in non remapped VWs with a turbo.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Dog-bite. It's certainly a good basis for a video but there are so many complications. Firstly heat soak, as this video confirms heat can affect output, dyno 95 first and then 98/99 on a hot day and you might find the results are skewed. The solution would be to get a bit technical and drive the car on the road on a cold day and use diagnostics to see what the timing is doing as all better octane does is allow more timing advance without knock. The other complication is making sure the tank is 100% one fuel or the other though running to nearly empty should be OK. I think Fifth Gear went to all the trouble of doing this properly and Super came out on top and anecdotal evidence from tuners confirms this too and for the difference in price (8ppl for Tesco 99 Momentum) it's a no brainer.

[@dog-bite186]

@@volkswizard Thank you for such a comprehensive reply Andrew. Looking forward to your next video.

[@carllynch8798]

Had a health check on my old B5 RS4 years ago by MRC I was running Tesco 99 and Doug said it was running good timing it was standard at the time Very good petrol and much cheaper then Shell

[@greymata]

Just got my silicone grey up gti a few weeks back. Those with one, are the brakes hard to press and don't feel like they strip speed off quickly? Is this a brake servo issue on my new from factory GTi?

[@volkswizard]

That certainly doesn't sound right, the brakes feel as sharp and responsive as any modern car. Back to dealer if only to try a different one.

[@greymata]

@@volkswizard thank you for the reply

[@owenkavanagh4875]

I'd love one of these but not available in Ireland.. Ur ever selling his a shout

[@vr6280]

I love these. I had a Polo AW 115PS (same engine?) and it was a great car. I was so tempted with one of these but the mrs hates them :( I did get the Racingline Filter and Turbo Elbow (Up GTI version) and they did improve the car quite a bit. It was your Up GTI filter swap video that convinced me to do it. How does it compare with a mk1 Golf GTI in terms as a modern day version?

[@volkswizard]

If the mrs hates something, usually not worth arguing 😁 Having driven a Mk1 GTI and an Up! GTI within a week of each other, I can tell you they are very different, cars were very loosely engineered in the 1970s, partly I suspect because the actually structure of the car wasn't very stiff so suspension had to be slack to avoid causing excessive strain, and brakes quite weak. The Mk1 GTI is fun but it's a bit like driving an Up! GTI after 3 pints (I am imagining that of course) as steering is quite vague and pitch and roll of body is very apparent. Aside from that, the turbo engine of the Up! GTI is a solid performer right through the rev range, as with most n/a cars the Mk1 GTI needs to be wound up to perform. It's amazing they weight around the same considering how much better as a car the Up! really is and price allowing for inflation I would guess is (or at least was in 2018 at launch) much lower.

[@vr6280]

@@volkswizard I think I need to drive one and maybe in the future? I’ve got to finish the Corrado first

[@chirpywiggins5796]

Have enjoyed you videos of the Up! GTI. Unfortunately I have the car on PCP and still have 2 years warranty which understand a remap would jeopardise and I'd also be in breach of agreement.

[@Roybatty443]

I’ve got a 2 year old up gti and am considering a remap after year 3. Sounds like a win win but wondered if there are any downsides ? It was your earlier videos from way back that convinced me to buy the up. Glad I did. My one and only complaint is the suspension. It’s just a bit too ragged over shit roads but I can live with it as everything else is just so good.

[@volkswizard]

Suspension is easily fixed though I do need to do some research. My hesitation is because it's easier to make it worse than better. Downsides to remap are higher fuel consumption (if you hammer it a lot), increased wear and tear on things like clutch, tyres. Insurance premium will be increased a bit. It also might put people off at resale time though really this would be because of insurance costs for younger drivers. In the wet with stock eco tyres, I suspect traction control might be more apparent which is not a good thing hence the need to stop it from awakening in the first place with some good peformance tyres. Also some 3rd party warranty firms won't cover the car from my experience, an issue if buying used from a dealer. This is all standard stuff, the key point is that the car seems to suit a remap and that's not true of all cars.

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

My UP was 1.5 years old when remapped, a week after I bought it. The former 60HP was remapped the moment they had the software, after a year or so. My other car (Mazda 3) was 3 months old when remapped by BBR, my earlier Golf GTI was 6 months old. Never had any engine issue with any car I ever owned, so I take the risk. Don't want to wait 3 years.

[@asphalthedgehog6580]

@@volkswizard I drive 160km a day to work, no hurry to get there, and easily do 1 liter on 23 km (65MPG) with a remap on 98. My former na UP did 1:24 or so with half the HP. Yes, if you hammer it constantly things change.

[@Roybatty443]

@@volkswizard brilliant advice and thanks again for taking the time volks. think ill probably go ahead with the remap after the warranty expires. I know everyone seems to have an issue with the stock tyres but I find them fine in all conditions. So, would be happy to leave them on til the end of their natural life and then upgrade. I think you did a video on fitting bilsteins but I may be wrong. Are you planning to do a before and after video re suspension to try and sort the crashiness?

[@Roybatty443]

@@asphalthedgehog6580 seems like a safe bet then, thanks for the advice asphalt

[@maxab6645]

Interesting, I've just had mine remapped with APR and the guys were adamant that Momentum is full of impurities and I should only use branded, they are pukka tuners with all sorts of amazing projects, but your RL guy say Momentum is absolutely fine, so who am i to believe ?

[@volkswizard]

Tricky, lots of chatter on forums about this but not scientifically tested so worth nothing. Impurities or not it has to be 99 RON which is the important bit. Maybe they had a bad batch of momentum, how did they test it? Did they also test V Power at the same time? Did they use various batches from different filling stations?

[@maxab6645]

@@volkswizard No testing involved but said they'd had a few probs with fuelling which they put down to supermarket impurities but I'm not convinced as I've never seen any hard scientific facts to back it up, think I stick to momentum as its a fair bit cheaper

[@MrSimon1909]

280 nm stock? how?

[@moondark666]

I believe Michelin advices is to have the 205/40/17 to be fitted on a 7j rim at minimal. The GTI rims are 6,5j

[@volkswizard]

That's interesting but it goes against the general consensus www.tyres-pneus-online.co.uk/tyre-equivalence-advice.html I'll check for the official line with Goodyear on Assymetric 6

[@moondark666]

@@volkswizard i have seen many equivalency tables but non of these were brand related. I work at a car dealership and own a Up GTI , we have a equivalency table book from michelin, and to my surprise it stated 205/40/17 has to be fitted on 7j / 7,5j / 8j. I dont know what other brands recommend as i find it pretty hard to find reliable information online. Also the people i know that fitted 205, all have replica rims and you probably guessed it, all 7j or higher ^^ Im not stating my findings are leading, im still searching for the 100% correct information myself. :)

[@TheCraigGroves]

I, along with many others are running PS5 or other tyres in 205-40-17 on the standard wheels. Personally running Rainsport 5. No issues with fitting or running them.

[@moondark666]

@@TheCraigGroves thats really good to read. Many people use different tyre and rim combinations (sometimes to the extreme) which exceed brand recommendations. Still I find it important to know what the brands officially recommend, thats the only way to know how much your exploring the limits if you decide to deviate from the official indications. Besides all that I personally choose Michelin over all the other brands.

[@moondark666]

@Lee Francis you certainly have a point imo. People always seem to stretch the limits to get what they want. I know cases where the insurance companies defenitely investigate the state of the vehicle after a crash to see if there are signs of bad car maintencance,exsesive speeding etc. Worn tyres for instance or speeding during the crash can be a reason for insurance companies to refuse to pay. If an accident occures because a tyre is forced off the rim, big chance that they want to know how that happened.

[@matthewbeeson5612]

Great video as usual Andrew, I do like these Up GTi's, future classic? I'm surprised the car made good power when standard but a bit less than expected when remapped. Heatsoak would be an issue either with/without a remap, right? Thanks

[@volkswizard]

Hey Matthew, glad you enjoyed the video. The dyno runs were done 1 hr apart. The first run would have been with a cool engine but after the 3 initial power runs, the remap run would have started off with much higher temperatures as it takes much longer than an hour for an engine to return to ambient even outdoors in summer let alone in a confined dyno cell. Also ambient temp was warmer than ideal at mid twenties as it was a warm day. I can safely say the cult status of the Up! GTI from launch guarantees it's place in the future classic hall of fame 👍

[@matthewbeeson5612]

@@volkswizard Ah, that explains it, makes sense. Will make for a fun drive when the tyres and suspension are sorted. Want one!

[@rasherbasher8203]

Great video Andrew.. I wonder what power you would get if a bigger turbo was fitted🤔 180 bhp would be great. Hopefully the gearbox/clutch would be able to take it. I've read horror stories about the clutches on the s1's being particularly troublesome.

[@TheCraigGroves]

Close to 190. There are a few running stage 3 with a larger turbo with no issues at all.

[@rasherbasher8203]

@@TheCraigGroves that would be awesome..

[@-Mu-min]

@@TheCraigGroves what kind of turbo?

[@TheCraigGroves]

@@-Mu-min I believe it's a standard turbo but reworked. Check out JBS .

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Rasher! S1 problem is the AWD which means clutch gets a battering while on FWD, slip is a safety device for the clutch :)

[@briankeenan6553]

I have a 2019 which I had remapped -stage 1 by racingline . Mine pulls 150hp and I actually love the extra zip it gives it. A big must is swapping those stock tyres though x great video 🤘🙏

[@volkswizard]

Glad we concur Brian 🍻

[@carlkwasnjuk9518]

How long before I can bring an UP GTI to the USA? Why can’t Volkswagen see how well this car would do in the USA?

[@jonathonbrett-qn1ic]

Great episode In your opinion would you remap a Golf R32 mk5 or leave it stock. Vdub :)

[@philipbarkle3837]

Great video again Andrew, i bought a gti on the back of watching your vids.Only thing i dont like is the clutch bite which I find too high, apart from that i love it.😀.Keep up the good work. 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Philip! Clutch bite has come up before, it's in the middle which some people find odd. My problem is I drive so many cars I automatically adapt to oddities and they don't really register. Glad you love the car otherwise 👍👍

[@ThiagoCBarna]

140whp??

[@iantownsend500]

Love the UP gti. I’ve been subscribed since you bought the up GTi

[@JM00-v9c]

I am always interested to see what kind of people drive these cars. It seems to be a) Petrol heads who have other cars and want a decent fun run about. B) random old people - I wonder if they know what they have bought or if they just got sold "top of the range" small car 🤣

[@volkswizard]

That's a fair assessment, I've bought a lot off the older owners and they do know for sure, they are still car people but might have a normal other car rather than a really fast car which is what the petrolheads usually have

[@mpick9404]

I'm a random old person with an UP Gti. 🧓🏼 Do you know what you've bought? that's the question. An evolution- at least in spirt of the original 80's pure fun over power Gtis which I owned & adored back in the day. I'm just impressed you youngsters who weren't there to enjoy them back then are able to recognise where the fun is to be had 😉

[@JM00-v9c]

@@mpick9404 you're not old! 😆 It's such a cool car.. I'd have one if I could get a mountain bike in it 😆

[@mpick9404]

@@JM00-v9c Lol. I am... & I have always ridden bikes too, mtb, cyclocross, road. Love it all. That was my main worry getting my 🤏🏼 UP! Gti believe it or not... Wish I could attach a pic here. But my UP! has roof bars & a pair of Thule bike rails on the roof. No wind noise, just a slight increase in fuel consumption. But, it's actually been a non problem for me. Just got back from a few days biking & camping with a mate. Two bikes, tents & all our gear in that car. What's your excuse now? 😅

[@JM00-v9c]

@@mpick9404 haha you can't put bike racks on an up !! that's mad!! haha. well you must drink less beer then, because I've had 2 bikes, food and beer for the weekend in the back of a gti and it was full... no roof racks.

[@TIM612826]

Awsum vlog. U explained everything so well. What was the 0/60 before an after tho?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks, before was 8.7 (factory figure). After I couldn’t time so hard to say. In gear times are where it’s at and it’s mega now 👍

[@d333my]

ATS often run deals on Michelin tyres. After discounts and cashback it’s £81 a tyre for PS5’s. Testing in Germany has confirmed a 20% longer tyre life - I went with the PS5 after some proper research.

[@volkswizard]

So it's cheaper and it last longer - if they are your priorities then go for the Michelin

[@MauriceNL1]

I saw that jbsautodesigns makes a traction control disable switch for the up GTI. Maybe something to look for! I remember saying you hated the traction control in the Up GTI

[@volkswizard]

I do but I need to like the supplier of any tuning parts and....

[@MauriceNL1]

@@volkswizard Understandable. Maybe a good diy project😅 traction switch from a old Up! and coding it in... maybe it is that simple🤓.

[@Kyrz13]

So nice to see new videos with our lovely little car ! Can't wait to remap my Up Gti 😍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks! I see you have a Greek or Cypriot name, are you in Greece or Cyprus with an Up! GTi?

[@Kyrz13]

@@volkswizardHi! I am Greek and my little baby lives in Athens Greece! 😎

[@grahamknibbs5481]

Brilliant review.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks! There's more on this car coming on the channel on Friday so hope you enjoy that too Graham 👍🏻👍🏻

[@davidmoss5823]

Excellent video as always, just got a white 5 door so this is very interesting 👍🏻

[@volkswizard]

Nice one David, enjoy👍

[@Maurice_Moss]

Worth saying about the Michelins, that they have the most tread depth out of all their competitors, so will last significantly longer, whic should ofset some of the extra cost. I also heard that the goodyears have less tread than the previous model too.

[@volkswizard]

I’ll check the tread depth out on Asymmetric 6 but have to point out that there is a lot more to a tyre’s longevity than how much tread it starts off with

[@kopkoon]

Be good to see how the 90 tsi is after a remap

[@volkswizard]

It will be great but chassis is borderline even with just 90 PS, it's super soft so rolls a lot!

[@sobrecarros3385]

Eu tenho o modelo tsi vendido no Brasil. Carro muito bom

[@Birmingham_racing]

Anything with a turbo is worth mapping. It's not just about 0-60 times it's the driving experience giving you more effortless driving by having less lag and more midrange torque

[@volkswizard]

Indeed, factory maps are full of holes to help pass emissions tests (legitmately) so as long as the law allows us to change them then we should, more power and torque is a bonus

[@Birmingham_racing]

@@volkswizard exactly aslong as your car is maintained properly you should be ok. I mapped my golf diesel at 80k and just hit 167k

[@colinw1591]

Interesting review Andrew, and looks like money well spent 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Colin W, at £360 it's not too expensive for a map from a reputable source like Racingline who you know have developed and tested it properly.

[@MrAndyS]

Audio sounds really good 👍

[@volkswizard]

Good to hear! Thanks for the feedback, pretty sure no wifi on the older cameras when filming, the newer grey GoPro had wifi on but for some reason didn't cause an issue this time.

[@colinsavidge9121]

I have an Up White and a Golf R estate (Mk7).The Up with 70 BHP is great fun!

[@volkswizard]

It is, driving the lower powered stuff was what convinced me GTI would be a riot

[@colinsavidge9121]

@@volkswizard Yes, the UP GTI is on my shortlist. Reminds me of my old Mark 1 1600 GTI.

[@andyhall8937]

This is the best colour and pan roof 👌

[@volkswizard]

Indeed, if only it had auto lights

[@chrispeckham5551]

Hi would raceline do a deal on a tune plus induction kit.......

[@volkswizard]

It’s up to the Racingline agent, you can always ask your local one

[@chrispeckham5551]

@@volkswizard I'm in Portsmouth would you happen to know any in the south.....

[@DR-lg6xr]

be good to compare a mapped car to a dtuk tuning box fitted car, which could be done when car is still under warranty, as it leaves no trace if you remove it

[@volkswizard]

I've not had a good experience of DTUK tuning boxes, might be better now but first impressions count. As for warranty, I've researched this before and DTUK (sensibly) will not guarantee that a tuning box "leaves no trace" and that it doesn't affect the warranty. It's not beyond the realms of possibilities that ECUs record maximum boost pressure recorded (for example) which will be higher than stock, and that if VW in Germany suspect a car has been modified, they can look hard enough to find evidence to throw out a warranty claim. It will be harder to trace than a remap but it's still a risk.

[@DR-lg6xr]

@@volkswizard good points Andrew.... My gti is standard, but I like the idea of doing something to the power output that can be easily removed if you wanted.... There are plenty of these tuning boxes out there on other petrol and diesel turbo's cars.... Seems 50 50 some love them, others wouldn't touch them.... Plus if you didn't get on with the tuning box you can always remove it and sell it on.... Thanks for taking the time to reply 👍

[@adriandickinson204]

Fully agree on the tyres, I have PS4 on my S3 & F1 Assy 6 on my Yeti. The S3 will get thee F1 assy 6 as soon as the PS4 are done.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for the feedback Adrian. I actually went to Goodyear's test track in France to test Assymetric 6 vs Assymetric 5, video will drop in September but safe to say I was very impressed

[@GloriaL28]

All these driving comments on this car------- I've had mine from new nearly a year and I would just like to know------ where on earth are the paint codes ( mines 2 colours) up to now 4 people looked we must be blind, looks like over to VW to sort🙄🙄

[@TheWackyRacer]

Brilliant video. Love mine 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Lee, glad you liked the vid and love car 👍

[@TheWackyRacer]

@@volkswizard I recognise some of those roads too ! Lots of luck with the channel 👍

[@mc1996]

That tire on that size may be an overkill. I am running PS4 at that size on a Fiesta ST with 220HP and 320NM and it's OK. On wet we get third gear wheel spin, but that what the right pedal is for.

[@volkswizard]

Fiesta ST has a bit more sophistication to its chassis so probably has more mechanical grip. For example reducing pitching to rear under acceleration will keep more tyre in contact with ground so it’s not as simple as bhp/NGM vs tyre size as many other factors have an impact

[@stujeffrey]

So want an Up gti

[@volkswizard]

Me too weirdly!

[@cfbm125]

Moooo!🐄

[@volkswizard]

I took that pic on the way to RL and having watched Fight Club again last week (if you know, you know😉) I thought I'd drop it in as the concrete cows are legendary!

[@samfield3773]

Am I an idiot for wanting to swap my focus rs for one😂

[@volkswizard]

Not an idiot but you’d probably get bored quickly

[@samfield3773]

@@volkswizard we shall see, focus rs has been nothing but trouble and love the idea of the MUCH cheaper running costs

[@jamescollins408]

Nope!

[@Murphy252000]

@@samfield3773 love mine and.will miss it when it goes, looking a clubsport s now but

[@nickaf5262]

That up gti is bloody mint 👍

[@volkswizard]

It's done 20k miles and has worn them well

[@709andre]

12:46 I am sorry to point this out but no car presenter can be taken seriously with such a poor steering wheel hand position.

[@semicolon101]

Oh shut up

[@GTIMAN2010]

Sweet car!

[@wynhughes9072]

Wish they did an automatic/ dsg version. Would buy one tomorrow

[@volkswizard]

The ASG in lesser models is not very good and don't think there is the room for a proper auto sadly but I can see the appeal

[@JM00-v9c]

NO!!!

[@wynhughes9072]

Have a Up asg at the moment. Not the best of autos but my wife loves it. She would love an Up GTi but as stated they don't do it in auto transmission.

[@spinnetti]

Cute car.. wish they sold them here.

[@noel5ilv3rlake]

Honestly sorry, this UP is horrible name horrible style for “GOLF-Famine”.

[@beano6452]

Rear drum brakes on a ‘GTI’ is unforgivable.

[@volkswizard]

Honestly drums are only a problem because how many red calliper cars have them at the back? Functionally, on the road at least, they are fine. I am sure some very clever engineers calculated that the braking force required for a one tonne car on rear was already exceeded with the drums. And some even cleverer accountants said "just as well because you nicht having bespoke rear axle with discs"😁. When it what £13750 on the road at launch it was fine at £17465 4 years later, it's more of an issue. Having said that everything else (especially Polo GTI) has gone just as much

[@beano6452]

@@volkswizard VW-Kostensenkung!

[@johnstannard8366]

Just get a Golf R and be done with it...

[@volkswizard]

For all the Golf R's positive, fun at sane speeds isn't a strong point

[@johnstannard8366]

@@volkswizard Point taken however... remapping invalidates warranty. So if you want something more nippy it's best to buy it in the first place.

[@volkswizard]

Nippy & fun are 2 different things as Golf R confirms. Up! GTI is massively more fun than a Golf R, even stock. Yes it’s slower & flawed in certain areas but with 60 mph the speed limit on a good road, when it comes to fun this is no hindrance. For example, look at how getting the front tyres to squeal at 40mph makes me smile, 140 in an R and it might just do the same

[@dont5363]

@@volkswizard thats you bro , id be embarrassed driving that when a real car shows ul behind me , il stick to my TCR

[@johnguidetti5839]

Washing machine on wheels.

[@michaelbuchanan6289]

Have you driven one?

[@johnguidetti5839]

@@michaelbuchanan6289 No, although i’ve driven a Polo gti & Golf gti.

[@johnguidetti5839]

@Betony Spirit Hit a nerve have i? Enjoy your washing machine. I’m sure you get a thrill sitting on top of it on max spin.

[@volkswizard]

Tricky to comment on cars without driving them wouldn't you say? Whatever, Up! GTI is not a car for everyone which suits me (and many others) just fine.

[@johnguidetti5839]

@@volkswizard Drum brakes, sub par gearbox, torsion beam suspension, terrible looks, Says it all really. Doubt i have to drive it to know it’s not as good as a Polo GTI or Golf GTI…

[@timsutherland4033]

Just buy a fast car