The Volkswagen Up! is a city car manufactured by the German automaker Volkswagen. Introduced in 2011, the Up! was designed as a modern, affordable, and fuel-efficient vehicle for urban environments. The model underwent a significant facelift in 2016, bringing updated styling, improved equipment, and enhanced safety features. This article focuses on the Volkswagen Up! (facelift 2016) powered by the 1.0 EcoFuel engine, producing 68 horsepower, and its specifications. While not officially sold in the United States, the Up! played a crucial role in the European microcar segment, competing with vehicles like the Fiat 500 and Toyota Aygo.
Volkswagen Up! (Facelift 2016) 1.0 EcoFuel: An Overview
The 1.0 EcoFuel variant of the Up! is particularly noteworthy for its bi-fuel capability, designed to run on both gasoline and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This feature aimed to reduce emissions and running costs, appealing to environmentally conscious drivers and those seeking economical transportation. The facelifted model, produced from 2018 to 2020, refined the original Up!’s design and incorporated technological updates, solidifying its position as a popular choice in the European city car market. The Up! is known for its compact size, nimble handling, and surprisingly spacious interior for its class.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Up! 1.0 EcoFuel is a naturally aspirated, three-cylinder 999 cc (60.96 cubic inches) engine. This engine develops 68 horsepower and 90 Nm (66.38 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate performance for city driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 16.3 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 15.5 seconds. The Up! reaches a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The key advantage of the EcoFuel version lies in its ability to switch between gasoline and CNG, offering significantly lower running costs and reduced CO2 emissions when running on CNG. The engine utilizes a multi-port manifold fuel injection system and meets Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter to further reduce emissions.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Up! (facelift 2016) is a compact hatchback available in both three-door and five-door configurations, seating four passengers. Its design emphasizes simplicity and functionality. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the front fascia, including revised headlights and a redesigned bumper. Inside, the Up! offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, with a focus on practicality. Key features include electric power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a range of optional equipment such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. The trunk space is versatile, offering 251 liters (8.86 cubic feet) with the rear seats up and expanding to 959 liters (33.87 cubic feet) when folded down. The Up! prioritizes safety with features like ABS and, in later models, more advanced driver-assistance systems. The vehicle’s compact dimensions and light steering make it exceptionally easy to maneuver in congested urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Up! |
| Generation | Up! (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 EcoFuel (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 3.6-3.7 l/100 km (65.3 – 63.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 2.6 l/100 km (90.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.9-3.0 l/100 km (81.1 – 78.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 81-82 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.2 kg/Hp |
| Power | 68 Hp |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 3000 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CPGA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1033 kg (2277.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 347 kg (765 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 251 l (8.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 959 l (33.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 10 l (2.64 US gal | 2.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 3600 mm (141.73 in.) |
| Width | 1641-1645 mm (64.61 – 64.76 in.) |
| Height | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2407 mm (94.76 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Up! (facelift 2016) 1.0 EcoFuel represents a practical and economical solution for urban transportation, particularly in European markets. Its bi-fuel capability, compact size, and efficient engine make it an appealing choice for drivers seeking a cost-effective and environmentally conscious vehicle.
