Volkswagen T-Cross Auto Express Review

The new Volkswagen T-Cross is among the most accomplished compact crossovers in its class. Its strong points include a versatile cabin complete with a sliding rear bench seat; and an engine lineup which, while small, manages to combine more than adequate performance with decent fuel economy.

• The T-Cross is a small SUV that was first unveiled as a concept car at the 2016 Ceneva Motor Show; the production T-Cross is Volkswagen's contribution to the hugely popular small SUV segment and was released in March 2019.

  The T-Cross is the smallest of the five SUV's in the Volkswagen range, sitting below the T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg.

  The T-Cross is powered exclusivly by 1.0-litre TSI petrol engines, offered in two power outputs and with a choice of five and six speed manual gearboxes or a seven-speed DSG. A diesel model may follow in due course. 

  The usual Volkswagen trim line-up applies. S kicks off the range and brings a decent level of standard equipment, with 16-inch alloys, cloth upholstery, manual seat adjustment and an eight-inch infotainment system with DAB radio and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Manual air conditioning, all-round electric windows and start-stop are also included, as is Volkswagen Connect – the German brand’s connectivity system that allows the monitoring of various car functions via a phone app, plus 24-hour access to a customer service helpline.

• Auto Express' overal ratings

   

  MPG, CO2 and running costs - 3.9/5
   
  The mid-forties fuel economy and low CO2 emissions of the T-Cross are par for the small SUV course.

  
  Interior, design and technology - 4.5/5
   
  Some rivals are more funky to look at, but the cabin is smart and the in-car tech is class-leading

• Engines, performance and drive - 3.9/5

  Simple petrol-only engine lineup works well; driving experience safe and easy rather than thrilling.
  
  

  Practicality, comfort and boot space - 4/5 
   
  Cubby-filled, spacious cabin made even more versatile thanks to sliding rear seat bench

  
  Reliability and Safety - 3.3/5
   
  Strong safety scores are highly likely, but VW’s cars are only average as an ownership prospect