Vehicle Overview
The Volkswagen up!, launched in 2011, has long been one of Europe’s most beloved city cars, combining compact dimensions, smart packaging, and German engineering precision. It’s the smallest model in VW’s lineup, sitting below the Polo and designed for urban mobility, low running costs, and big-car quality in a tiny footprint.
The up! has evolved over its lifespan with improved efficiency, subtle design tweaks, and the introduction of the e-up! — a fully electric version that broadened its appeal. By 2025, it remains a clever, dependable, and surprisingly refined small hatchback, perfect for city dwellers, commuters, and first-time drivers.
Key Specifications (2025 Volkswagen up! Range – UK/EU)
| Specification | 1.0 Petrol | e-up! (Electric) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | NSF (New Small Family) | Same |
| Engine / Motor | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol | 32.3 kWh electric motor |
| Power Output | 65 hp (48 kW) / 75 hp (55 kW) | 83 hp (61 kW) |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / ASG auto | Single-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 14.6 sec (65 hp) | 11.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 101 mph (163 km/h) | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy (WLTP) | 55–60 mpg (4.7–5.2 L/100 km) | |
| Range (e-up!) | 162 miles (261 km, WLTP) | |
| Charging (DC Fast) | 40 kW (0–80% in ~60 min) | |
| Charging (AC) | 7.2 kW (full in ~5 hrs) | |
| Length / Width / Height | 3,540 mm / 1,641 mm / 1,504 mm | Same |
| Boot Capacity | 251 L / 951 L (seats folded) | 250 L / 923 L |
Exterior Design
The Volkswagen up! may be compact, but it has enduring charm thanks to its minimalist, timeless design.
Design highlights
Boxy yet stylish shape for maximised space
Short overhangs and upright stance for excellent manoeuvrability
Updated LED daytime running lights and halogen headlights
Optional contrasting roof and mirror caps
Compact 15- to 16-inch alloy wheels
Clean rear with distinctive glass tailgate
GTI variant styling (on select markets) for sportier appeal
It’s instantly recognisable — cute, practical, and cleverly proportioned for tight urban environments.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the up! offers surprising space and solid build quality for its class. VW’s smart packaging ensures it feels roomy despite its small footprint.
Interior highlights
Simple, functional dashboard with body-coloured accents
High-quality plastics and robust switchgear
Smartphone docking cradle (Move/Style trims)
Optional 5-inch infotainment display or app-based system
Comfortable seats with good support for long drives
Heated front seats (on higher trims)
Split-folding rear bench (60:40)
Excellent visibility from tall glass area
Despite its size, the up! feels well-built and premium, reflecting VW’s attention to detail.
Features & Infotainment
The up! offers essential connectivity while keeping things simple and distraction-free.
Smartphone integration with VW “Maps + More” app
Bluetooth connectivity and USB input
DAB digital radio
Air conditioning
Heated seats (Style trim)
Rear parking sensors (optional)
Manual or automatic climate control (on e-up!)
Voice control (via smartphone app)
It’s minimalist but smartly equipped — ideal for drivers who value function over excess tech.
Safety & Ratings
Despite its size, the Volkswagen up! performs impressively in safety, achieving a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (2011).
Standard safety features include
Front, side, and curtain airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
City Emergency Braking (AEB)
Hill Hold Assist
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Rear parking sensors (trim-dependent)
ISOFIX child seat anchors on rear seats
The up! provides a secure, confidence-inspiring driving experience, especially for urban or new drivers.
Driving Performance
The Volkswagen up! prioritises lightness, simplicity, and agility — the perfect recipe for city driving.
Driving impressions
1.0-litre petrol engine is quiet and refined at city speeds
Precise, light steering and small turning circle (9.8 m)
Comfortable suspension that handles potholes well
Surprisingly stable at motorway speeds
Manual gearbox offers a clean, direct shift
e-up! version provides instant torque and whisper-quiet performance
The up! GTI (where available) adds fun to the mix, with 115 hp and go-kart handling — a true city hot hatch.
Efficiency / EV Range
For urban drivers, efficiency is where the up! truly excels.
| Petrol versions | 55–60 mpg real-world economy |
e-up! range (WLTP): 162 miles
Charging (e-up!)
| DC fast (40 kW) | 10–80% in ~1 hr |
| AC wallbox (7.2 kW) | 0–100% in ~5 hrs |
| Low running costs | ~3p per mile (EV) or ~45 mpg equivalent (petrol) |
Both variants offer exceptional affordability, with the e-up! delivering zero-emission driving for city users.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The up! might be a city car, but it punches above its weight in practicality.
| Boot space | 251 L (petrol) / 250 L (EV) |
Split-folding seats expand capacity to nearly 950 L
Excellent headroom front and rear
Tight turning circle ideal for city streets
Four-door versions add family flexibility
Easy access and upright seating position
It’s an ideal city companion, offering surprising usability and comfort for daily driving or short trips.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Vehicle warranty | 3 years / 60,000 miles |
Battery warranty (e-up!): 8 years / 100,000 miles
| Service interval | Every 12 months or 10,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 1 year included |
| Low-cost maintenance | Simple mechanicals and strong VW reliability |
The up! remains one of the most dependable small cars on the road, with affordable servicing and proven longevity.
Price & Value for Money
| Trim | Powertrain | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Up! | 1.0 Petrol 65 hp | ~£15,000 |
| Up! Style | 1.0 Petrol 75 hp | ~£16,500 |
| e-up! | 32.3 kWh EV | ~£22,000 |
| Up! GTI (limited markets) | 1.0 Turbo 115 hp | ~£19,500 |
The up! offers outstanding affordability, low insurance, and low running costs — making it a smart long-term buy for urban use.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range / Economy | Boot | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VW up! | 1.0 Petrol | 55–60 mpg | 251 L | £15k |
| Fiat 500 Hybrid | 1.0 Petrol Hybrid | 53 mpg | 185 L | £16k |
| Hyundai i10 | 1.2 Petrol | 52 mpg | 252 L | £16k |
| Kia Picanto | 1.0 Petrol | 55 mpg | 255 L | £15k |
| Honda e | Electric | 131 mi | 171 L | £36k |
The up! remains one of the most well-balanced and affordable city cars, especially with the efficient e-up! variant.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Superb city manoeuvrability
High-quality interior for its size
Low running and insurance costs
Available as petrol or EV
Surprisingly refined ride
Cons
Limited motorway performance
Small boot for longer trips
e-up! availability limited in some markets
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Volkswagen up! is a masterclass in compact car design — easy to drive, efficient, and built with the quality expected of a VW. Whether you choose the fuel-sipping petrol or the zero-emission e-up!, it’s a smart, stylish solution for city life.
The up! delivers big-car polish in a tiny package, offering unbeatable urban practicality and long-term reliability at an accessible price.
| Who it’s for | City drivers, commuters, first-time buyers, and anyone seeking a dependable, easy-to-park small car with character. |
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The up! is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the up! good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.