THE tiny VW Lupo, which found a strong following in this country, was replaced by theFox in 2006.
However, the company’s idea of a world car does not have the same charisma as the Lupo, and has not attracted buyers in the same numbers.
The Fox is much more limited in its scope, appealing only to those who want a VW with low spec, small engines and little pzazz.
That said it is much more practical than the Lupo, with space for four people and a light airy cabin.
Engines are 1.2 or 1.4 petrol – there is no diesel – with power outputs of 54 and 73bhp.
Neither offers much performance but where the 1.2 is pedestrian, the 1.4 makes a hand at getting there a bit quicker.
The ride is comfortable over everything but rough town roads at slow speeds, and since it is based on the Polo, the roadholding is good and the handling very safe.
Interior
Air conditioning is an option on 1.2 models and they are the majority available secondhand. Standard kit includes two airbags, driver’s seat height adjustment, height and reach adjust steering, six speaker stereo.
The Urban Fox adds 50/50 split fold back seat, remote locking, sliding front seats for easier access to the rear and electric front windows.
FAST FACTS
VW Fox 1.2
Price: Pay about £3,700 for an ’06 06-reg base model, £4,800 for an ‘08 08-reg Urban Fox.
Mechanical: 54bhp, 1,198cc, 3 cylinder petrol driving the front wheels via a 5 speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 92mph
0-62mph: 16.9 seconds
Combined mpg: 46
Insurance group: 1
CO2 emissions: 139g/km
Marks: 7/10
Main Rival: Ford Ka