If we scan our eyes along the Volkswagen GTI timeline, we can see many similarities between the Lupo GTI of the 2000s and the Volkswagen Up! GTI.
Transport back further in time and we can also see that the 1976 Golf GTI may have influenced other members of the Up! family over the years.
How does the GTI compare with a standard Volkswagen Up?
Don’t be fooled by the fact that it looks from the outside like your standard Up! – the GTI model has been bolstered with a few nifty new features, such as with a 1.0-litre TSI engine tuned to deliver 113bhp or 200Nm of torque which is great for urban driving.
Furthermore, you can opt for a six-speed gearbox, which minimises engine noise by reducing engine revs at a higher speed.
The height and suspension of the car have both been revised and the Volkswagen GTI now features handsome 17-inch alloy wheels for an enhanced level of performance and handling.
Not only does the new Volkswagen Up! GTI look great up-close, but it also stands out at a distance. With its redesigned headlights and LED daytime running lights as standard, you can stand out in both style and safety.
Why the Volkswagen Up! GTI is: ‘A small car with big ideas’
The lightweight 995kg Volkswagen Up! is small but mighty with a low-end torque to make it one of the best-handling city cars on the market.
Guidance on fuel consumption, parking location and helpful tips on driving more economically is included in the in-built the infotainment system and Volkswagen Connect technology lets you bring your smartphone apps to the touchscreen.
Thanks to the ‘maps + more dock’ and smartphone app, you can access your smartphone and any playlists on it that you want to keep you company on a drive straight away. If you want your music to sound as powerful as your engine, you can opt for the beats by Dr Dre sound system with 300 watts of power.
Measuring just 3.6 metres long and 1.91 metres wide, the sleek and contemporary compact exterior of the Up! GTI makes it nimble for handling corners.
The Volkswagen Up! GTI beams its badge with confidence through its front and back stripes, sporty front grille, tinted rear side windows and darkened side windows. Rear spoilers, a chrome-plated tailpipe and a black diffuser also give it a strong road presence.
What colours does the Volkswagen Up! GTI come in?
To complement its bubble-pod-like looks, the model offers a myriad of ways to celebrate your individuality.
The choice of colours for the body, roof, door mirrors, side decals and dash pad enables you to create the look that’s right for you.
Five shiny exterior paint colours include Tornado Red, Pure White, Dark Silver, Black Pearl and, new to the GTI line-up, a Costa Azul. With the exception of cars painted in Black Pearl, the Up! GTI is also available with an optional contrasting black roof.
Step over the door sill protectors in stainless steel with ‘GTI’ logo and you’re greeted by the stylish ‘Jacara’ upholstery and red contrast stitching and chrome detailing on the steering wheel.
Complementing the stitching is the Red 2D pixels upper dash pad creating a touch of style and finesse.
Verdict
The Volkswagen Up! GTI is sheer proof that great things come in small packages.
To stay connected whilst out and about, you can secure your phone to the docking station if you want to use it as a sat-nav or listen to music, whilst the eye-catching interior offers a distinctive drive.
With an engine that is perfect for urban driving, we can see why it has been described as ‘the people’s supercar’, and how it has previously picked up BBC Top Gear Magazine’s Pocket Rocket of the Year.
In terms of size, the way it drives and a touch of whimsy on the inside, you’re onto a winner with the Volkswagen Up! GTI.
View our latest offers on the Volkswagen Up! GTI.
