VW unveils T-Cross Breeze 01 | 03 | 2016
VOLKSWAGEN HAS LIFTED the wraps from its T-Cross Breeze in Geneva today: the car signals VW's plans to introduce an entry-level SUV which could rival the Range Rover Evoque cabrio (see more photographs of the VW T-Cross Breeze concept).
One of three SUV-type models which VW has confirmed for launch within the next two years, the 4133mm-long T-Cross will initially enter production as a more traditional five-door fixed roof model.
The T-Cross will be joined by production versions of the 4177mm long T-Roc and 4987mm long CrossBlue concepts. Together with the recently unveiled second-generation Tiguan and upcoming third-generation Touareg, they will form a five-strong range of dedicated SUV models.
The T-Cross, which shares its MQB based underpinnings with the sixth-generation Polo, will go head-to-head with the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Vauxhall Mokka.
Using a combination of aluminium and hot formed high strength steel, the MQB platform helps provides the new price leading VW SUV with a claimed kerb weight of 1250kg.
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According to VW, the T-Cross Breeze is a melding of the SUV and convertible worlds. Its full-width grille, taut body surfacing, structured flanks and large wheel houses are shared with the two-year-old T-Roc.
Despite the common design — the new SUV models share a lineage in much the same way as the existing Polo and Golf hatchbacks exist alongside each other — the T-Cross does boast a number of distinctive styling cues.
Most noticeable are the large LED day time running lamps mounted low down within the front bumper.
The T-Cross Brzze clearly indicates VW is planning a rival to the new Range Rover Evoque cabriolet, its latest concept also features an open top design.
At 4133mm long, 1798mm wide and 1563mm tall, the T-Cross is 46mm shorter, 33mm narrower and 62mm higher than the earlier T-Roc, dimensions Volkswagen says will be mirrored on the production version of the new concept due out in 2018.
Power for the latest T-Cross Breeze concept comes from VW's new turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which is just one of a number of three- and four-cylinder units planned to be offered with the new junior crossover. Delivering 110bhp, the power is channelled to the front wheels via a seven speed dual shift double clutch gearbox.
According to VW, the T-Cross Breeze will scamper from standstill to 62mph in 10.3sec and carry on to a top speed of 117mph. It'll also return 56.5mpg at the pumps, and emit 115g/km CO2.
Related: VW unveils Tiguan GTE Active
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Jim McGill