Volkswagen’s smallest SUV offering, the T-Cross made its world premiere in Amsterdam, followed by a showcase in Shanghai and São Paulo too.
The T-Cross is smaller than the T-Roc, which according to VW, makes it better suited for the city. It is built on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, which also underpins the new Polo. The 5-seater SUV measures 4.11 metres in length and 1.56 metres in height. Wheelbase measures 2,563 mm.
On the exterior, the T-Cross comes with LED headlights, fog lamps, heated wing mirrors, LED tail lamps that are connected with a reflective band, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can opt for 17- or 18-inch wheels.
The interior layout of the urban crossover is pretty similar to the latest VW models. Equipment list includes an optional digital cockpit, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto AC, height adjustable front seats, sport/comfort seats at the front (depending on the trim), and ambient lighting.
More options include up to four USB ports, inductive wireless charging, keyless locking and starting system, and 300-watt Beats audio system.
Assistance systems include Lane Assist, Hill Start Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Proactive occupant protection system, Pedestrian Monitoring, and City Emergency Brake. Options include Driver Alert System, automatic adaptive cruise control (ACC), Park Assist, and Light Assist which automatically switches the main beam on and off as soon as oncoming traffic approaches.
The rear bench seat can be slid forward or back by 14 cm. As for the luggage capacity, the backrest has a 60:40 split and when folded down, creates up to 1,281 litres of storage space.
Which then brings us to the business end of the story. Powering the T-Cross is a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI motor, with two states of tune – 95 hp or 115 hp. The former is paired with a 5-speed manual while the latter is available either with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG.
There is also a 150 hp 1.5 4-cylinder TSI engine on offer, which is paired to a 7-speed DSG. On the diesel side, there is a 95 hp 1.6 4-cylinder TDI on offer, paired either to a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG. All models are front-wheel drive.
Apparently, all engines have a start/stop system and brake energy recuperation, and comply with the latest Euro 6D-TEMP emission standards.
As with its sister model the Polo, the new T-Cross will be manufactured at the company’s factory in Navarra, Spain. Base model is priced at €17,975 in Germany. The company is also targeting South American and Chinese markets for the T-Cross.
Volkswagen plans to invest some one billion euros at the aforementioned plant by 2019, in order to serve the particularly strong growth in the market for compact SUVs.
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