Volkswagen Up car lease deals

Performance and features

It’s no small feat to make a compact car that still prioritises performance, but the VW Up balances both practicality and handling well. Drivers can choose from a range of four 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engines that offer 59bhp, 74bhp, 89bhp or 113bhp respectively - although the range-topping engine is exclusively offered in the Up GTI. Regardless of which engine is chosen, all models are available with VW’s intuitive stop-start technology which helps improve fuel economy. There’s also the all-electric E-Up for eco-conscious drivers, which offers a respectable range of 161 miles and utilises five regenerative braking modes to help recharge the battery between stops.

Just because the Up is a small car doesn’t mean it can’t accommodate a family - every model comes with two Isofix points on the rear seats as standard and has more than enough storage space, with all trim levels excluding the base model coming with 60:40-split folding rear seats and an adjustable height boot floor. All Ups also come with safety options like stability control, automatic emergency braking and additional airbags for peace of mind. Other notable equipment available across the range includes MP3 connectivity and hydraulic brake assist.

Interior technology

The Up’s interior definitely favours convenience over class, with an intuitive layout that’s designed to make the minimalist dashboard easier to navigate. The highlight of the dashboard is the 5-inch colour infotainment system, which can be paired with a smartphone to become a second display with music streaming, radio and sat-nav. Where the interior really shines is when it comes to personalisation, with interior trims including nine upholstery designs, 12 different dashboard colours and a two-tone sunrise-inspired dash in the Beats model. The Up Beats model also benefits from a more powerful stereo that’s perfect for those who favour streaming on the go.