VW lifts the wraps from T-Cross SUV 26 | 10 | 2018

    VOLKSWAGEN HAS LIFTED the wraps from its latest SUV. The all-new T-Cross is the smallest SUV from the German brand, and is set to go head-to-head with rivals such as the Seat Arona and Kia Stonic. It’s due to go on-sale at Scottish showrooms early next year, with prices starting around £16,500. (Related: Roadtest — VW Polo 1.0TSI SE)

    Sharing of its mechanical running gear with the Polo supermini, the T-Cross sits beneath the T-Roc in VW’s line-up. Based on the same MQB A0 platform, the newcomer is 4107mm long and1558mm tall; that makes it 54mm longer and 97mm wider than the Polo. As you would expect, drivers also sit 100mm higher in the T-Cross than they would in the hatchback. The T-Cross is 127mm shorter than the bigger sister T-Roc, which is broadly similar in size to a Golf. Related: VW T-Roc gets new 1.6TDI engine

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    Visually, the T-Cross has a more prominent, powerful look than its rivals thanks to its chunky wheel arches, boxy profile and tall bonnet. Figures also suggest it will also be more practical; the 385-litre boot is actually larger than a VW Golf’s, and can expand to 455 litres with the rear bench slid forward by 14cm. Fold the rear seats down completely and luggage space rises to a whopping 1281 litres.

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    VW says the T-Cross is aimed at young, small families, but it’s looks, size and practicality are likely to attract many more buyers than the narrow range the company appears to be targeting initially. (Related: Roadtest — VW T-Roc)

    The company has also taken the sensible decision not to include a four-wheel driver version, which also helps keep costs down. That means all T-Cross models will be front-wheel drive.

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    UK buyers get the option of a 95bhp or 115bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. Both are mated to a six-speed manual as standard, though a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is available as an option.

    There will be no diesel derivative in the UK, at least certainly at launch. While a 1.6-litre TDI engine is available to buyers on mainland Europe, VWUK will only elect to bring it here if there is sufficient demand.

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    There are also no current plans for a hybrid version, simply due to the cost of installing the powertrain in smaller cars, although VW is not ruling one out in the future. However, there will definitely not be a GTI or R version.

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    Inside the cabin, it’s instantly recognisable as a Polo. There’s a central touchscreen — offered in two sizes: 6.5 and 8.0 inches — which gives access to all of the car’s functions. Active Info Display — VW’s digital instrument cluster — is also available and will be standard on higher-spec models.

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    The traditional current range of VW spec trims will be available on the T-Cross. That means an entry-level S model, moving up through SE, SEL and R-Line. Blind spot monitoring, alloy wheels (ranging from 16 to 18 inches), aircon, Bluetooth and four USB charging ports will all be standard. Goodies such as a sunroof, adaptive cruise control, keyless go and wireless phone charging will all be on the options list.

    Related: VW Polo GTI R5 gets new livery

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    Jim McGill

     

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