Here you can see it together with its forefather, the unusually successful founder of the GTI series from 1976. Attractive such a comparison with the now smallest. Less than 10 cm shorter, but 8 cm higher is the new one, but even though about 170 kg (driver at that time not counting) heavier. It accelerates slightly better from 0 to 100 km/h, thanks to its lively three-cylinder (picture above).

The more than 10 km/h more top speed is not surprising, but the almost halved fuel consumption. And that, even though the newest upgrade is no longer NEDC, but WLTP (and 6d Temp) certified. And while the hint of GTI performance is more subtle on the outside than on the old one, we naturally encounter the plaid 'Clark' seats inside.

The subtle impression on the outside continues while driving. With 15 millimeters lowering the Up GTI is still not the racing car. It seems to have stopped halfway there in terms of seats, cornering and steering precision and that's a good thing. There is even speech of a certain riding comfort.

Of course, the engine fulfills what people expect from it in this segment. The rear drum brakes has taken over as the only modern GTI, with big difference to the old GTI in terms of efficiency. One thing could not resist the concept of the Up GTI, however, the sound generator for the interior. If at least it could be switched off! 02/18