The Volkswagen Cross Up! facelift, specifically the 1.0 TSI (90 hp) variant produced from 2016 to 2018, represented a slightly more rugged and feature-rich iteration of Volkswagen’s city car. Built on the A05 (VW Up!) platform – also known internally as the 1HX0/A3 – the Cross Up! aimed to broaden the appeal of the Up! range by offering a more adventurous aesthetic and a marginally increased ride height. This particular engine and trim combination occupied a mid-range position within the Cross Up! lineup, offering a balance between affordability and performance. It was positioned above the naturally aspirated 1.0-liter engine and below potential special editions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Up! |
| Generation | Cross Up! (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Power per litre | 90.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHZA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 976 kg (2151.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 384 kg (846.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 251 l (8.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3628 mm (142.83 in.) |
| Width | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Height | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2411 mm (94.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1412-1433 mm (55.59 – 56.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1408-1428 mm (55.43 – 56.22 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Cross Up! facelift, launched in 2016, was a response to the growing demand for small, versatile city cars with a touch of crossover styling. Building upon the already successful Up! platform, the Cross Up! added plastic body cladding, slightly raised suspension, and unique interior trim to create a more rugged appearance. The 1.0 TSI (90 hp) engine, designated with the CHZA engine code, was a key component of this variant, offering a significant performance upgrade over the base 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine. This engine was a relatively new addition to the Up! range, bringing turbocharging and direct injection to the diminutive city car.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cross Up! 1.0 TSI is the CHZA engine, a three-cylinder, 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 90 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power from 1500 to 3500 rpm. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the Up!’s nimble handling. The 1.0 TSI engine is part of Volkswagen’s EA288 engine family, known for its efficiency and reliability. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this variant. The transmission is known for its smooth operation and precise shifts, although it isn’t particularly sporty in its gearing.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 TSI engine transforms the driving experience of the Up! compared to the base engine. While not a performance car by any means, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in acceleration, making it much more comfortable for highway driving and overtaking. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.3 seconds is respectable for a car of this size and weight. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, allowing for efficient cruising at highway speeds. The slightly raised suspension of the Cross Up! provides a more comfortable ride over rough surfaces, although it doesn’t significantly alter the car’s handling characteristics. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cross Up! 1.0 TSI typically came equipped with a decent level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. The “Cross” trim added unique exterior styling elements such as black plastic wheel arch extensions, roof rails, and a rugged-looking front bumper. Inside, the Cross Up! featured unique seat upholstery and dashboard trim. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and heated front seats. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Cross Up! utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The suspension was slightly raised compared to the standard Up!, providing a marginally higher ground clearance. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are discs. The braking system is adequate for the car’s weight and performance, although it doesn’t offer particularly strong stopping power. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cross Up! 1.0 TSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and surprisingly spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained at higher speeds and that the interior materials were somewhat basic. Compared to other trims in the Up! lineup, the 1.0 TSI offered a significant performance advantage, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently drive on highways or carry passengers. Fuel economy was comparable to the naturally aspirated 1.0-liter engine, despite the increased power output.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Cross Up! 1.0 TSI, while a relatively short-lived model, has gained a reputation for reliability and affordability in the used car market. The 1.0 TSI engine has proven to be a durable and efficient powerplant, and the Up! platform is known for its simple and robust construction. These cars are relatively inexpensive to maintain, and parts are readily available. As a result, the Cross Up! 1.0 TSI remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical and reliable city car.
