VW Up: derivatives galore

In the fast-paced world of new car launches, the Volkswagen Up is already cooling down, such is the length of time since it were first off the press. VW obviously isn’t ignorant to this fact as it wheeled out five concept versions of its perky A-segment.
It’s interesting to see elements of the car have been designed to be changed for each version (particularly bumper and grille inserts) as well as VW’s quite blatant desire to create an iconic sub-brand:
Buggy Up
While the others are variations on the standard car’s bodyshell to a lesser or greater extent, the Buggy is a complete rebody, with a two-seat, open (both up top and to the sides), as well as lower body cladding and a raised ride height. Its format is strongly reminiscent of some of VW’s earlier buggy-esque concepts, albeit on a smaller scale. Lovely detailing abounds with delicate hood latches, infotainment controls weatherproofed behind a rubber membrane and a combination of rear rollover hoop and deck ribs that evoke that other pocket-sized plaything, the Fiat X 1/9.

Giugiaro Up
Fun – if rather cliched – take on the beach car concept. Dripping with nautical references – oiled wood, chrome, netting and white leather – it’s the equivalent of a wheeled deck shoe. Removing the sides of the car whilst retaining the C-pillar has resulted in an awkward side profile that resembles a child’s push-along toy. Details such as the built-in shower head remind us it’s not to be taken too seriously.

Cross Up
Serves the dual purpose of previewing the 5-door Up and the possibility of a slightly more rugged-looking version along the lines of the existing Cross Polo and Cross Golf. Considering popularity of the Fiat Panda 4×4, this seems like a dead cert for production.

e-Up
Wearing flush wheels and blanked-off grilles the e-Up is, as you may have guessed, the electric version of the Up. Like the others here, specific color and trim have a major effect on the perception of the car – in this case the light blue hue and pale interior upholstery asre instantly recognizable as belonging to the Bluemotion family.

GT Up
Along with posh, scary, and, err, eco, comes sporty. Rather predictable trapezoidal grille gives a little more facial aggression, while a rear diffuser and wide-set double exhaust and a set of larger rims complete the visual masculization. Inside, tartan upholstery is a neat nod to performance VWs of the past.