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AUNCHED locally back in 2014, the Volkswagen Up! is an affordable entry-level hatchback that became an instant favourite of mine thanks to its fun driving dynamics and class-beating refinement. As time went by it became even better with the advent of a five-door model plus the slightly higherriding Cross: a faux-SUV clad with protective plastic mouldings. Marvellous. Well just recently the Up! reached a new level of excellence after the engineers treated it to a facelift. Although the 1.0MPI engine stays the same — something of a disappointment considering that overseas this car is offered with the turbocharged 1.0TSI motor — the exterior has been sharpened up some. There are new front and rear aprons, redesigned alloy wheels plus a new pair of headlamps with LED daytime running lights. It really does look better than ever.

Without doubt, this Volkswagen is the best small car on the market. By

Inside there are a few more welcome changes. Like the leather multi-function steering wheel borrowed from the Polo. I’ve always preferred the tactile qualities of a wheel wrapped in cowhide and it’s amazing how the presence of one also lifts the ambience of the cabin. Good move.

Then there’s the new infotainment system that packs a five-inch colour display. Unlike anything you’re likely to find inside a Volvo, it’s intuitive and devilishly easy to use. It will stream music from your smartphone or mate with it via USB. Heated seats are optional but air-conditioning and a tyrepressure sensor come standard. Ditto ABS brakes, four airbags and a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. It’s most unlike a Datsun Go or Renault Kwid.

Instead it just wants to please you. And it does so without fail.