The 2022 Volkswagen up! GTI proves that big fun can come in a small package. Inspired by the original Golf GTI, this pint-sized hot hatch brings a healthy dose of performance, character, and charm to the city car class — and does so with surprising refinement and everyday usability. Under the bonnet, the up! GTI is powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 115 PS and 200 Nm of torque. Paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, the car delivers an engaging drive with a 0–62 mph time of around 8.8 seconds. While that figure doesn’t scream performance on paper, the up! GTI feels nippy, responsive, and eager thanks to its low weight and short gearing. The exhaust note has a surprisingly throaty growl for a three-cylinder, and the throttle response is sharp enough to keep things entertaining on a twisty B-road. Despite its modest power, the up! GTI captures that classic GTI spirit — agile, fun, and unpretentious. On the road, the up! GTI is nimble and well-balanced. The steering is light but accurate, and body roll is kept in check thanks to a sportier suspension setup. Around town, the compact dimensions make it incredibly easy to park and manoeuvre, while on country roads, it’s genuinely fun to throw around. The ride is firmer than the standard up!, but not overly harsh — it strikes a decent balance between sportiness and comfort, although you’ll feel sharper bumps at lower speeds. Inside, the GTI treatment includes tartan ‘Jacara’ cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and red accents that pay homage to its heritage. The cabin design is simple and functional, with solid build quality for the price point. There’s decent space in the front, but rear legroom is tight for adults. The boot is small at 251 litres, but fine for everyday use. While tech is fairly minimal — with no built-in sat nav or advanced driver aids — smartphone integration via the docking cradle works well for most needs.