Volkswagen has just presented the new T-Cross, the most affordable SUV of the German brand for our market. Manufactured in Pamplona, together with the Polo and the Taigo, the T-Cross is also the smallest SUV in the range.
We are talking about a successful car, one of the best-selling models of the manufacturer and its segment (B-SUV) in Europe and which is now launching an aesthetic update, equipment and a whole rethinking of the interior.
Compact, practical and economical, the T-Cross is a rival to the Citroën C3 Aircross, Jeep Avenger, Ford Puma or the Toyota Yaris Cross. In other words, models in which design counts, since they are preferably aimed at a young user profile.
In just four years, the T-Cross has conquered a leading position among compact SUVs: about 1.2 million people have chosen it for its versatility.
With an average of 300,000 units produced each year, the T-Cross, which is also offered outside of Europe under the names Tacqua and Taigun, is currently one of the most successful Volkswagen models in the world.
But the European market is very demanding, and what works today may not work tomorrow. To do this, at Volkswagen they have not hesitated to listen carefully to their customers: “We have systematically based ourselves on the strengths of the T-Cross. The refreshed design, the new infotainment system and the higher quality of the entire interior have been geared towards the next higher segment of vehicles.”
It debuts a new front end and a redesigned rear end, with integrated LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and rear light clusters. The IQ.Light matrix LED headlights are a completely new development from Volkswagen and are offered for the first time on the T-Cross.
In addition, three new colors are offered to the range: a striking and sporty yellow (Grape Yellow), a light blue that is very pleasing to the eye (Clear Blue Metallic) and a very colorful bright red (Kings Red Metallic).
Destined for a new generation of drivers, who value technology and connectivity in a special way, the main element of the interior is the independent screen of the infotainment system.
The standard touch screen measures 8 inches; the top-of-the-range version has a 9.2-inch screen with a diagonal of 23.4 cm. In addition, all versions will be equipped as standard with digital instrumentation.
The T-Cross' dashboard has also been completely redesigned. Like Volkswagen's larger models, it features upgraded-quality, smooth-surface materials.
The same is true of the front door trims on the Style and R-Line versions. The standard air conditioning system is manual and, as an option, the Air Care Climatronic automatic climate control with backlit touch controls is available.
Volkswagen has always understood that this type of car is aimed at active people, who usually use it daily, but also at the weekend for outdoor activities or simply going out to disconnect.
To do this, the T-Cross has a spacious and versatile interior, for five people if necessary. And a rear bench that can be moved by 140 mm and, above all, a trunk of between 385 and 455 liters. Everything depending on the needs.
In addition, the passenger seat can be folded down, from Life equipment. The continuous load surface from the rear to the front is 2,398 mm in length and can transport everything from surfboards to paragliders.
On the other hand, the tow hook load has been increased from 55 to 75 kg. At the same time, the maximum weight allowed for transporting bicycles is increased, an important factor for carrying the new, and so fashionable, e-bikes.
Volkswagen offers, as a technological novelty, an improved version of the Travel Assist system. Depending on the traffic, the T-Cross can control the speed, with automatic acceleration and braking. Within the law, the system can also intervene in speed limits, curves and roundabouts.
At the same time, Lane Assist can help keep the vehicle in its lane. Also, the T-Cross can automatically perform stop and start operations when equipped with DSG.
With no official price yet, Volkswagen ensures that the new T-Cross will continue to have a very attractive starting price. It will not arrive until February, approximately, but the pre-sale and online access (official website) begins in the fourth quarter of this year.
The three available options, all with a gasoline engine, are the 1.0 TSI three-cylinder (95 and 115 CV) and the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder 150 CV. The German brand has not said anything, for the moment, about electrified versions.
