LIKE other city cars, the VW Lupo looks good but is not very practical if you want to carry passengers.
Rear headroom and legroom are very small if there is anyone of normal size up front, but it will fit three quite easily.
The entry 1.0-litre is very slow and to be avoided but other models are much better - a 1.4 with 75bhp, a 1.7 diesel with 60bhp and a 1.4TDI turbo diesel with 75bhp.
The 1.4 sport with 100bhp goes very well as you can imagine and the GTi 1.6 with 125bhp is also rather good.
The Lupo’s suspension is taut and the chassis excellent, giving great road-holding and still a comfortable ride.
Handling is also superb, with marvellous balance and excellent power steering.
Kit in the E trim level is good, including height adjust driver’s seat, 60/40 fold rear seat, two airbags and a stereo system. S trim adds electric front windows and central locking.
Interior
Not only is rear head and legroom small but the boot is tiny, with just about enough space for three shopping bags.
The driving position is excellent and safety is also very good, but the SEAT Arosa is built to the same standards in the same factory and it’s a lot cheaper.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Lupo
Price: Pay about £2,700 for an ‘03 53-reg E, or £3,700 for an ’04 54-reg Sport
Mechanical: 75bhp, 1,398cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving the front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 106mph
0-62mph: 12 seconds
Combined mpg: 38
Insurance group: 3
CO2 emissions: 151g/km
BIK rating: 15%
Marks: 8/10
Main rival: Vauxhall Agila