Australian buyers are ditching hatchbacks and turning to small SUVs in record numbers. Volkswagen is cashing in on the trend with the T-Cross, a high-riding version of the Polo.
VALUE
The T-Cross is the cheapest SUV in Volkswagen’s local line-up.
There are two variants to choose from: the Life, which costs about $35,000 drive-away, and the better equipped Style grade, which costs about $2500 more.
Aimed at younger buyers, the T-Cross is fitted with plenty of tech and connectivity features.
The eight-inch central touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and there are four USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad to keep all passengers’ devices fully juiced.
The Life variant we drove has 16-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights and black roof rails. The Style version upgrades to bigger 17-inch-alloys, brighter LED bulbs and flashier chrome roof rails.
Metallic or pearlescent paint costs $600 or $900 extra depending on the shade you choose.
A $2200 “sound and vision” package adds a Beats stereo, digital driver display, wireless smartphone mirroring and voice and gesture control.
Volkswagen covers its vehicles with a five-year/unlimited km warranty and a prepaid servicing pack costs $2450 for five years of scheduled visits.
COMFORT
The Life’s cloth-wrapped seats are manually adjustable, while the Style has premium cloth and sport seats that provide more lateral support.
The high seating position provides a clear view of the road ahead.
There are lots of hard wearing plastic surfaces broken up by some textured inserts that add some pop to the otherwise spartan interior.
A leather-wrapped gear shifter and flat-bottomed steering wheel add a touch of panache.
There are several small storage areas scattered throughout and despite its small size there is plenty of room upfront for adults.
The back seat is snug, especially if taller passengers are sitting upfront.
Boot space is generous for this size SUV and the back seat can slide forward to liberate extra storage space if needed.
The suspension is on the firmer side and you’ll feel most bumps and road imperfections through your seat.
Road noise can be intrusive too, especially over coarser road surfaces.
SAFETY
Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are two notable omissions from the list of safety equipment.
The former warns you when a vehicle is in your blind spot and the latter sounds the alarm when a car is approaching from the side as you reverse.
The Life version has auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist as standard, but if you’re looking for radar cruise, which maintains a safe distance to the car in front, you’ll have to upgrade to the Style. All versions are covered by six airbags.
DRIVING
The T-Cross is a charming little SUV to drive.
Its 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine makes just 85kW but has a healthy 200Nm of torque available from low in the rev range, which helps add some oomph off the mark.
The seven-speed dual-clutch auto helps to keep that torque on tap but it takes some getting used to. Drivers need to have a delicate touch when accelerating otherwise it can be indecisive and jerky at lower speeds.
The T-Cross is zippy around town and its compact dimensions make it ideal for parking in tight underground car parks and cramped inner city streets.
It has typical VW sharp, accurate steering that boosts driver engagement.
Firm suspension increases the driver appeal on twisting back roads but is less than compelling in town where poor quality roads lead to an at times bumpy commute.
Fuel use of 5.4L/100km is impressive but it does need pricier premium unleaded petrol.
ALTERNATIVES
Mazda CX-3 Evolve, from about $35,000 drive-away
Non-turbo engine feels unrefined next to the VW but has safety tech the T-Cross misses.
Toyota Yaris Cross GX Hybrid, from about $34,500 drive-away
Fuel sipping hybrid power for the same money as the VW, but it is sparsely equipped.
Kia Stonic GT-Line, from $32,990 drive-away
Cheaper turbocharged little SUV has a generous seven-year warranty but isn’t as polished to drive.
VERDICT 3.5/5
Sharp steering and stylish small SUV that could do with a little bit more safety tech.
VOLKSWAGEN T-CROSS LIFE
PRICE: About $35,500 drive-away
ENGINE: 1.0-litre three cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, 85kW and 200Nm
WARRANTY/SERVICING: Five years/unlimited km, $2450 for five years
SAFETY: Six airbags, auto emergency braking, lane-keep assist, driver fatigue warning
THIRST: 5.4L/100km
SPARE: Space saver
LUGGAGE: 385 litres
Originally published as 2023 Volkswagen T-Cross Life new car review