What is it?
The Volkswagen Up has wide appeal, and not just from the cost-conscious end of the market. Yes, you can get a base-spec Up for less the £7,995, but the kudos of the VW badge means buyers who wouldn't necessarily fancy such a small car are attracted.
That enviably leads to a desire for lots of equipment. So we arrive at the High Up Bluemotion Technology with five doors. It is one of the most expensive Ups available, but comes with plenty of big car kit, including standard-fit sat-nav and heated seats – as well as Bluetooth audio streaming and ESP.
What is it like?
The £11,240 High Up is further justification for Volkswagen charging full-sized supermini cash for a car a size smaller. Because it’s a car that has undoubtedly brought new levels of technological richness – luxury, even – to the city car class. It’s also a city car available with five doors.
Although it’s very well packaged, the VW is short and particularly low of roofline. If you’re taller than 6ft 2in and sitting behind someone of the same size, you’ll find kneeroom and headroom tight. Space for shoulders, elbows and feet is good, though.
The decent size of the rear door aperture makes it easy to lean in over a child seat. The rear windows don’t slide down, but can be opened a few degrees at the rear edge – adult occupants might consider that restrictive, but parents may prefer it.
Should I buy one?
Truth is, if you’re regularly going to carry older teenagers or adults in the back, a Hyundai i10 would serve you better than an Up. Overall, though, it’s not enough to tip the scales against the VW. The Up remains one of our favourite small cars.
Volkswagen High Up 1.0 Bluemotion Technology 5dr
Price £11,240; 0-62mph 13.2sec; Top speed 106mph; Economy 67.3mpg; CO2 98g/km; Kerb weight 957kg; Engine 3 cyls, 999cc, petrol; Power 74bhp at 6200rpm; Torque 70lb ft at 3000-4300rpm; Gearbox 5-spd manual
