The Volkswagen Up! GTI is a sporty subcompact hatchback produced by Volkswagen. Introduced as part of the Up! range’s facelift in 2016, the GTI variant, specifically the 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) model, aimed to bring a touch of Volkswagen’s hot hatch heritage to the smallest car in the lineup. While not officially sold in the United States, the Up! and its GTI version were popular in Europe as an affordable and efficient city car with surprisingly engaging driving dynamics. Production of this specific iteration ran from January 2018 to 2019, representing a short but notable period in the Up!’s lifecycle.
Volkswagen Up! GTI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp): An Overview
The Up! GTI occupies the subcompact or city car segment, designed for urban environments where maneuverability and fuel efficiency are paramount. It distinguishes itself from the standard Up! models through its enhanced performance, sporty styling cues, and upgraded interior features. The GTI version was positioned as a more driver-focused option, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a fun-to-drive experience in a small package. It’s important to note that the Up! was never a high-volume seller outside of Europe, but it gained a loyal following for its practicality and surprisingly refined driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Up! GTI is its 1.0-liter TSI turbocharged three-cylinder engine. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 5000-5500 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000-3500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger contribute to both its power output and its relatively good fuel economy. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 8.4 seconds, and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 196 km/h (121.79 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is a respectable 8.7 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5 kg/Nm, contributing to its lively performance. The inclusion of a particulate filter demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Up! GTI is a hatchback available in both three-door and five-door configurations, offering seating for four passengers. Its compact dimensions – 3600 mm (141.73 in) in length, 1645 mm (64.76 in) in width, and 1478 mm (58.19 in) in height – make it easy to navigate tight city streets and park in confined spaces. Stylistically, the GTI features a red stripe across the front grille, a roof spoiler, and unique alloy wheels, differentiating it from the standard Up! models. Inside, the GTI boasts sport seats with red accents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upgraded infotainment options. The trunk offers a minimum of 251 liters (8.86 cu. ft.) of cargo space. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and, depending on the specific trim level, additional driver-assistance systems. The Up! GTI prioritizes practicality and efficiency, offering a comfortable and well-equipped interior for its size.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Up! |
| Generation | Up! (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | GTI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DKRA, DKRF |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 995 kg (2193.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 251 l (8.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3600 mm (141.73 in.) |
| Width | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2410 mm (94.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1412-1433 mm (55.59 – 56.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1408-1428 mm (55.43 – 56.22 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
The Volkswagen Up! GTI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) represents a compelling package for those seeking a fun, efficient, and practical city car. While not available in the US market, it remains a popular choice in Europe for its blend of performance, economy, and everyday usability.
