Our gorgeous test unit came in a striking Grape Yellow which is the baby of Volkswagen’s all-important “T” family of SUVs and the best-selling SUV for VW in South Africa.
By Rubin van Niekerk
It shares its MQB A0 platform with the sixth-generation Polo Hatchback and is a trendsetter in our compact SUV market.
Subtle yet effective updates have a more muscular appearance without bulkiness which handicaps the advantages of compact proportions. Sexy styling features LED daytime running lights and IQ. Light HD matrix headlights are a completely new VW development on the T-Cross.
The central element in the interior is the free-standing infotainment display of a touchscreen measuring 8-inches diagonally and an 8-inch digital cockpit. The dash panel features soft-touch upholstered and significantly higher-quality surface materials.
Impressive lighting technology includes 24 LEDs per headlight module, full-LED taillights with animation, and an illuminated strip on the radiator grille, all complemented by the “Dynamic Light Assist” system, which allows permanent main beam.
The semi-automated Travel Assist package includes Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go functionality, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Cornering Assist, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist. Autonomous Emergency Braking with Front Assist, and Pedestrian Monitoring, ensures safety and effortless driving.
Powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine, the T-Cross delivers 85kW and 200Nm of torque through a smooth 7-spead DSG automatic transmission. It accelerates to 100km/h in 10.2 seconds, has a top speed of up to 193km/h, and achieved a fuel economy of 7.0 litres per 100km. Highway driving is a pleasure with low noise levels, responsive steering and a refined feeling which is not common in smaller SUVs.
Irrespective of compact dimensions the T-Cross master space utilisation incredibly well. A family friendly sliding rear seat offer flexibility between boot space versus rear seat passenger space. Cargo capacity ranges from 385 litres to 455 litres, expanding to 1 281 litres with folded seats which is unusually generous amongst compact SUVs.
It is definitely one of the cars that must be on your test list as it challenges competitors well, and due to its popularity offer resale peace of mind. Excellent build quality also makes it a good long-term car, if you do not like changing your cars often and parts availability on Volkswagens remain reliable for decades generally.
Pricing of R462 200 includes a three-year 45 000km service plan.
www.vw.co.za
