2025 Volkswagen T-Cross Review

The T-Cross is Volkswagen’s baby SUV package that aims to over-deliver when it comes to driving refinement, fuel efficiency and fun.

With small SUVs exploding in popularity, the T-Cross sits as one of the most affordable members of the Volkswagen lineup, positioned in a segment showing no signs of slowing down.

To increase its appeal, Volkswagen gave the T-Cross lineup a mid-life update, headlined by a new styling package, upgraded infotainment and safety equipment lists, and a new R-Line range-topper.

With no shortage of competitors, how well does the VW T-Cross stack up against its rivals and perform as a sleek, more sophisticated European compact SUV? Let’s take a closer look to find out.

Volkswagen T-Cross Competition

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How Much Does the Volkswagen T-Cross Cost?

The MY24 Volkswagen T-Cross range is priced from $34,990 for the entry-level T-Cross 85 TSI Life.

Stepping up to the T-Cross 85TSI Style brings the price to $39,990 while the range-topping T-Cross 85TSI R-Line is priced at $43,990.

Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and do not include on-road costs.

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What Features & Specs Does the Volkswagen T-Cross Have?

The entry-level VW T-Cross 85 TSI Life comes riding on a set of 16-inch alloys and receives automatic LED headlights, cloth upholstery with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, a rear-view camera with front & rear parking sensors, roof rails, a wireless smartphone charger, 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster and an updated safety equipment suite.

Stepping up to the T-Cross 85 TSI Style adds a set of 17-inch alloys, Matrix LED headlights, keyless entry & start, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, an illuminated front grille, chrome roof rails and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

Finally, the flagship T-Cross 85 TSI R-Line picks up 18-inch alloys, an R-Line styling upgrade inside and out, a drive mode selector, rear privacy glass and an upgraded sound system.

Volkswagen T-Cross Connectivity & Infotainment Features

Every member of the T-Cross lineup, from the entry-level Life to the flagship R-Line comes equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display sitting atop the dashboard.

There’s DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity in the base model, while the mid-range Style receives satellite navigation and voice controls.

Life base models receive a six-speaker sound system while upgrading to the R-Line adds a premium sound system courtesy of Beats by Dre.

Does the Volkswagen T-Cross Have Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto?

While all T-Cross variants receive Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, not every member of the range comes boasting wireless smartphone mirroring.

The entry-level T-Cross Life range still requires a physical connection via a USB-C cable to access Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, in the absence of wireless support.

For 2024, Volkswagen has added wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for the mid-range R-Cross Style and the range-topping R-Line, which were previously reserved for VW’s optional Sound and Vision pack.

Is the Volkswagen T-Cross Comfortable to Drive?

The T-Cross impresses behind the wheel, asserting itself as one of the most refined small SUVs in the segment.

It’s a cheerful ride that can confidently tackle a zip around town, with excellent handling dynamics that make it a great driving package.

Power for the T-Cross range comes supplied by a pint-sized 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine that pushes out a modest 85kW but hefty 200Nm of torque.

While it’s not a powerhouse, there is a generous heaping of torque to help waft you up to speed, with great bursts of acceleration provided by the turbocharger that makes the T-Cross feel light on its feet.

This is complemented by a slick seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the front wheels, with snappy shifts on offer as you pick up the pace.

One of the drawbacks of the dual-clutch transmission is, however, the momentary lapses and lurches between gears at slow speeds and while taking off from the line.

Admittedly a small gripe, this does take away from the T-Cross’ urgency off the line and often presents itself in less-than-convenient situations around town, though you do get used to it and begin to account for the momentary pause.

With its platform borrowed from the Polo hatchback, the T-Cross is super user-friendly around town.

Thanks to its lightweight steering rack, it’s easy to park and squeeze through traffic, while great grip levels make it perfect for easy driving through the urban jungle.

There’s also a compact turning circle which, combined with its featherweight 1,289kg kerb weight, makes it more engaging to drive than you might have first anticipated.

The suspension works well to iron out small and moderate bumps around town, though the firmer setup means that it’s not a huge fan of rough, country roads.

That said, the T-Cross is a solid performer on a mix of town and highway driving, offering a refined and user-friendly small SUV package that is amongst the best in the segment for driving comfort.

Is the Volkswagen T-Cross Fuel Efficient?

Volkswagen says that the T-Cross consumes just 5.4L per 100km on a combined cycle, making it an extremely fuel-efficient small SUV.

The small-capacity, 1-litre three-cylinder engine combined with a turbocharger means that the T-Cross is a strong contender for fuel economy figures, without the added cost of a hybrid powertrain.

The T-Cross has a 40L fuel tank and requires 95 RON fuel, which is something to keep in mind for running costs, with a maximum fuel distance of 800km dropping to a minimum of 667km.

How Much Fuel does the Volkswagen T-Cross use Around Town?

VW T-Cross City Consumption: 6.0L per 100km

How Much Fuel Does the Volkswagen T-Cross use on the Highway?

VW T-Cross Highway Consumption: 5.0L per 100km

Is the VW T-Cross Practical and Spacious?

While the VW T-Cross is ultimately limited to its Polo-sized platform, the company has done well to maximise interior space and make it feel like an upmarket product, fitting of the wider brand.

Step inside and you’ll notice a decent view of your surroundings thanks to a nice elevated ride height for the cabin.

You’ll also notice a clean, straightforward approach to the updated cabin design which mixes more traditional design features with some modern, high-tech touches.

With two displays at the top of the dashboard, the T-Cross feels like a contemporary package, while those upgrading to the mid-range T-Cross Style also benefit from a larger 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

In terms of space, there’s a decent amount of headroom for taller drivers to get comfortable, while the mid-life update has seen some soft touchpoints applied to the doors, which is a nice, curated touch.

Storage options in the front of the cabin include a tray sitting behind the gear lever, a pair of cupholders beside the handbrake, added storage inside the folding armrest, glovebox and a pair of huge door bins.

Move to the second row and the T-Cross definitely passes the test for the small SUV segment.

There’s enough room for adults to sit in the rear without banging their knees up against the seatback, while headroom is also pretty accommodating for taller occupants.

While there’s not quite enough width in the cabin for comfortable three-abreast seating, there are at least amenities like a pair of USB-C charging ports and the same large door bins to swallow up loose items… but no rear air vents.

The rear bench is also able to slide back and forth if you’re in need of extra legroom or to make way for bulky cargo.

The T-Cross retains the existing two pairs of ISOFIX anchors as well as three top tether mounts for forward and rear-facing child seats, with easy access into the second row through the wide-aperture doors.

All up, VW has done a great job at extracting the maximum space from the T-Cross’ limited platform, making it one of the most spacious options in the small SUV segment.

How Big is the Volkswagen T-Cross’ Boot?

While small SUVs typically have a microscopic boot, the T-Cross impresses once again with a large boot capable of handling some family duties.

With the rear bench standing, there’s 385L worth of boot space in the back of the T-Cross, expanding to 455L with the rear seats slid forward.

Fold down the rear bench and you’ll unlock a very handy 1,289L of boot space when you need to lug around large suitcases, sports gear or a run back from the hardware store.

Is the VW T-Cross Safe?

Recent updates for the Volkswagen T-Cross range have seen more active safety equipment make its way to the entry-level T-Cross Life, which is a particularly nice touch for price-conscious buyers.

As standard, the entry-level T-Cross comes packaged with autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assistance with lane-centring, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, a rear-view monitor with front & rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and proactive passenger protection for the seatbelts.

This is a welcome addition after VW removed several active safety features in the wake of component shortages which, thankfully, have now returned to the T-Cross range.

Does the Have an ANCAP Safety Rating?

The updated VW T-Cross lineup wears a five-star ANCAP safety rating after 2019 testing saw its pre-update siblings score the following marks.

Adult Occupant Protection: 97%

Child Occupant Protection: 85%

Vulnerable Road User Protection: 81%

Safety Assist: 80%

What Warranty Does the Volkswagen T-Cross Come With?

The Volkswagen T-Cross is backed by VW’s five-year/unlimited-kilometre factory warranty.

The company offers five capped-price services for the MY24 T-Cross range, which total $3,221 over the course of five visits.

Service intervals stand at 12 months or 15,000-kilometres, whichever elapses first.

Our Verdict: Is the Volkswagen T-Cross Worth it?

While there’s no shortage of competitors, the Volkswagen T-Cross range stands confidently on its feet as a well-equipped, refined and user-friendly small SUV package.

Volkswagen’s numerous updates for the T-Cross range make it more competitive than ever before, particularly when it comes to key safety features coming back into the mix.

The T-Cross ticks all the important boxes, from its impressively practical cabin, responsible fuel use from its turbocharged engine and great handling that makes it a pleasure behind the wheel.

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, be sure to put the T-Cross on your shortlist.

On that note, if you’re thinking of upgrading to a new car, our team of car-buying specialists is on hand to take the stress out of the buying process and help find the best possible price.

Five Volkswagen T-Cross Specs You Need to Know

1. Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty
2. 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine
3. 455 - 1,289L boot space
4. 5.4L combined cycle fuel economy figures
5. Five-star ANCAP safety rating