We live in straitened times, and no-one knows this better than a car manufacturer. Volkswagen's Lupo was a fine car, with lots of charm - but the German manufacturer would be the first to admit that it probably got a little carried away in the execution, ending up with a car that it couldn't make much money out of, just as Audi did at the beginning of last decade with its technologically-advanced A2 supermini.
The Lupo's replacement, the Fox, lacks some of its predecessor's charm, and doesn't feel as sophisticated either. It is built in Brazil, which is no comment on its quality, but rather an indication that this is a true world car, intended to be sold in many markets across the planet.
If the Fox might be said to lack some charm compared to the Lupo, then it can definitely be said that it is not as exciting as some of its rivals. Volkswagen doesn't do emotion and charisma, certainly not in the same way that a Fiat Panda or Hyundai i10 might be able to win you over.
The car is too tall and conspicuous in stance to be a sly fox, but that does mean that it has an impressive amount of space inside. The interior is of good quality compared to rivals and there is more space for passengers in the back of the Fox than you would expect in this segment. You can even get in certain trims a rear bench seat that slides backwards and forwards to prioritise luggage space or leg room.
The entry-level 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine is adequate for urban driving, but quickly feels out of its depth outside of the city, as the high revs at cruising speed quickly grate. The 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine offers more power and a better balance of performance, but is less refined than the other motor. Neither is the Fox a particularly exciting car to drive - the steering refuses to engage with you, merely doing its job.
The Fox is a capable car, and although it does get unjustifiably expensive higher up the range, it is a cheap car to run. The VW brand is a strong one, and some people will no doubt be swayed into buying the Fox because of its badge alone. Other buyers might want to have a look around first.