# Volkswagen Up! — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Volkswagen Up! on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-up

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: Move Up
- **Target mileage**: 30,000
–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £11,595

## Why this model

The Volkswagen Up is a fantastic little city car, perfect for navigating tight UK streets and parking spaces. It's known for its surprisingly spacious interior for its size, decent build quality that feels more premium than some rivals, and excellent fuel economy. It's a solid choice if you're looking for something reliable, cheap to run, and easy to drive.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2020 Volkswagen Up! Move 1.0 with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sells for around £11,595. Prices can vary a bit depending on exact mileage, condition, and optional extras, but this is a good target to aim for. Don't be afraid to negotiate a little, especially if you spot any minor imperfections.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Move Up' trim hits the sweet spot for value. It adds essential features over the basic 'Take Up' like air conditioning, electric front windows, and a split-folding rear seat, which make a big difference for daily usability and comfort. You get a lot more car for a relatively small price increase compared to the 'Take Up', without paying the premium for the 'High Up's' less essential luxuries.

## What to check before you buy

- Water ingress (rear lights/boot seal)
- Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., infotainment)
- Clutch wear on manual models (especially in city driving)
- Rear brake drum issues (sticking)

## Running costs

Running costs for the Up are very low, which is one of its biggest appeals. For a 1.0-litre petrol engine, you can expect fuel costs of around 11-12 pence per mile, assuming petrol at £1.45/litre and achieving around 55 mpg. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model will be £180 per year. Insurance is typically very cheap, falling into low groups (2-5), making it ideal for new drivers or those looking to save money. Servicing costs are also generally affordable.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 60-75 hp
- **Mpg**: 55-60 mpg combined
- **Reliability Score**: 4/5 stars
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2011)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Take Up | £9,500 | £10,250 | 14-inch steel wheels; Remote central locking; Radio with CD player |
| Move Up | £10,500 | £11,595 | 15-inch steel wheels; Air conditioning; Electric front windows |
| High Up | £11,800 | £12,850 | 15-inch alloy wheels; Front fog lights; Heated front seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £11,595 | 0% |
| 2027 | £10,667 | 8% |
| 2028 | £9,910 | 7% |
| 2029 | £9,315 | 6% |
| 2030 | £8,849 | 5% |

Buying a 3-4 year old Volkswagen Up like the 2020 model means you're past the steepest part of its depreciation curve. New cars lose a significant chunk of their value in the first few years, so by buying used, you're letting someone else take that initial hit. The Up holds its value relatively well for a city car, so while it will continue to depreciate, the rate will be much slower, making it a smart long-term purchase.

Total value lost since new: 23.68%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Kia Picanto](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-picanto.md)
- [Hyundai i10](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/hyundai-i10.md)
- [Toyota Aygo](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-aygo.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.