Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Up GTI (2017-2023) – performance and 0-62 time

113bhp is unlikely to create record-breaking performance figures, but the Up GTI’s 0-62mph of 8.8 seconds is certainly respectable

Evo rating
  • An entertaining car to drive, even if it isn’t in the conventional hot hatch manner; high quality interior
  • Some of the interior’s quality should have gone into the chassis

Outright performance really isn’t the Up GTI’s forte, but, anyway, that really doesn’t matter for a car of this sort. Still, although not outstanding, the Up GTI’s acceleration time and top speed are certainly impressive given its humble origins; VW’s hot supermini manages to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 8.8 seconds and it tops out at 122mph.

Advertisement - Article continues below

One of the big contributing factors in getting that acceleration time down to a respectable number is the Up’s 995kg kerb weight. However, its peak power of 113bhp, available between 5000 and 5500rpm, and maximum torque of 147lb ft from 2000 to 3500rpm, certainly also help.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Cupra Leon VZ review – Spain’s Golf GTI is better than Germany’s
Cupra Leon
In-depth reviews

Cupra Leon VZ review – Spain’s Golf GTI is better than Germany’s

The choice of full-sized front-drive hot hatches now doesn’t include the Civic Type R. Can the Cupra Leon VZ take the top spot?
25 Aug 2026
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa review – a yacht-inspired saloon for Ferrari-inspired money
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa
Reviews

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa review – a yacht-inspired saloon for Ferrari-inspired money

Many of the styling touches are in dubious taste, and the estimated £250k asking price for this special edition is faintly absurd, but any chance to r…
26 Aug 2026
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is more powerful and cheaper than BMW's M3
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45
News

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is more powerful and cheaper than BMW's M3

The CLA 45 is no more expensive than the old A45 but with 671bhp, is obviously way more potent
28 Aug 2026