The Volkswagen T-Cross is one of the most popular compact SUVs in the world, with more than 1.2 million units sold since its launch in 2019. For 2024, the T-Cross has received a major update that makes it even more attractive, versatile, and technologically advanced. In this article, we will review the main features and benefits of the new T-Cross, and compare it with some of its rivals in the segment.
Design and Style
The 2024 Volkswagen T-Cross has a refreshed exterior design that gives it a more modern and dynamic look. The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned, and the LED headlights and taillights have been integrated into the bodywork. The T-Cross also offers the optional IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, which are a new development from Volkswagen and provide optimal illumination in different driving situations.
The T-Cross is available in three new colors: Grape Yellow, Clear Blue Metallic, and Kings Red Metallic. These add to the existing palette of eight colors, giving customers more options to personalize their T-Cross. The T-Cross also offers a range of alloy wheels, from 16 to 18 inches in size, and various styling packages, such as the Black Edition and the R-Line.
The interior of the T-Cross has also been upgraded, with improved materials and a new dashboard. The dashboard features soft-upholstered surfaces and a free-standing infotainment display. The display measures 8 inches as standard, and 9.2 inches as an option. The digital instrument cluster is now standard on all versions of the T-Cross, and the air conditioning system can be either manual or automatic, with touch sliders.
The T-Cross has a spacious and flexible cabin, with a rear bench seat that can slide by 140 mm, and a luggage compartment that can vary from 385 to 455 liters, depending on the position of the rear seat. The luggage compartment can also be expanded to 1,281 liters by folding the rear seat. The T-Cross can accommodate up to five passengers, and offers plenty of storage spaces and USB ports throughout the cabin.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2024 T-Cross is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, with two power outputs: 95 hp and 110 hp. The 95 hp version comes with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the 110 hp version comes with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The T-Cross is front-wheel drive only, and does not offer a diesel or hybrid option.
The T-Cross is not a very fast or sporty SUV, but it offers enough performance for everyday driving. The 95 hp version can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 11.6 seconds, while the 110 hp version can do it in 10.8 seconds. The top speed is 112 mph for the 95 hp version, and 120 mph for the 110 hp version. The T-Cross is also relatively economical, with a combined fuel consumption of 47.9 mpg for the 95 hp version, and 46.3 mpg for the 110 hp version. The CO2 emissions are 136 g/km for the 95 hp version, and 139 g/km for the 110 hp version.
The T-Cross is easy and comfortable to drive, with light steering and good visibility. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and potholes, and the cabin is well-insulated from noise and vibrations. The T-Cross is also agile and maneuverable, with a turning circle of 10.6 meters, making it ideal for city driving and parking.
Technology and Safety
The 2024 T-Cross is equipped with a host of technology and safety features, making it one of the most advanced compact SUVs on the market. The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and can be controlled by touch, voice, or gesture. The system also offers wireless charging, online services, and a premium sound system by Beats.
The T-Cross also offers the optional Travel Assist system, which enables semi-automated driving up to 130 mph. The system combines adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and traffic jam assist, and can adjust the speed and steering of the T-Cross according to the traffic and road conditions. The system also monitors the driver’s attention and alerts them if they need to take over.
The T-Cross has a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, and comes with a range of standard and optional safety features, such as:
- Front assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- City emergency braking
- Blind spot monitor
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Park assist
- Rear view camera
- Driver alert system
- Multi-collision brake
- Tire pressure monitor
- Hill start assist
Price and Competition
The new T-Cross is expected in early 2024. The price has not been announced yet, but it is likely to be similar to the current model, which starts from £24,000 ($32,400). The T-Cross is available in four trim levels: S, Black Edition, SEL, and R-Line. The S trim is the most basic, while the Black Edition adds some black accents and features. The SEL trim is the most luxurious, while the R-Line trim is the most sporty.
The T-Cross faces a lot of competition in the compact SUV segment, from both mainstream and premium brands. Some of the main rivals of the T-Cross are:
- Ford Puma: The Puma is one of the best-selling compact SUVs in the UK, and one of the most fun to drive. It also offers a mild-hybrid option, and a spacious and practical boot with a removable floor. The Puma starts from £22,000 ($29,700).
- Skoda Kamiq: The Kamiq is a close relative of the T-Cross, sharing the same platform and engine. It is slightly larger and more spacious than the T-Cross, and offers a more conservative and elegant design. The Kamiq starts from £20,000 ($27,000).
- Nissan Juke: The Juke is one of the most distinctive and quirky compact SUVs, with a bold and polarizing design. It also offers a turbocharged petrol engine, and a high-tech interior with a large touchscreen. The Juke starts from £18,000 ($24,300).
- Audi Q2: The Q2 is one of the most premium and expensive compact SUVs, with a sleek and stylish design, and a high-quality interior. It also offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, and a quattro all-wheel drive option. The Q2 starts from £27,000 ($36,450).
Conclusion
The 2024 Volkswagen T-Cross is a small SUV with big appeal, offering a refreshed design, a high-quality interior, and a host of technology and safety features. It is not the fastest or the cheapest compact SUV, but it is one of the most spacious, versatile, and advanced. The T-Cross is a great choice for anyone looking for a practical, comfortable, and reliable SUV that can handle both city and country driving.