VW unveils T-Cross city SUV

Volkswagen unveiled its new B-segment SUV at a world premiere in Amsterdam, Shanghai and Sao Paulo, thereby continuing an SUV offensive it began in 2015. This new model will be available on three continents but not in North America.

The T-Cross was presented by Ralf Brandstätter, Chief Operating Officer of Volkswagen Brand, together with Cara Delevingne, British supermodel and so-called testimonial for the T-Cross.

Based upon the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, the T-Cross has a driven front axle that is located very far forward. With a total vehicle length of 4.11 metres, the 2.56-metre wheelbase is comparatively generous, allowing a spacious interior with enough room for five people. The sliding rear seat can be adjusted by 14 centimetres, allowing more passenger leg room or more luggage space. The luggage compartment holds between 385 and 455 litres. The rear seat can also be folded down fully or partially, creating a flat loading space with up to 1,281 litres of storage volume.

Engines

The new T-Cross has a choice of four turbocharged engines: three petrol and one diesel. The two 1.0 TSI three-cylinder petrol engines with petrol particulate filter generate 70 kW / 95 PS or 85 kW / 115 PS. The top model is the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder engine with 110 kW / 150 PS. Completing the range is a 1.6 TDI four-cylinder engine with 70 kW / 95 PS. All engines comply with the latest Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard.

Ample driver assistance systems

Standard equipment for the new T-Cross includes numerous driver assistance systems which Volkswagen say were previously reserved for higher vehicle classes. Included as standard equipment are the Front Assist area monitoring system with Pedestrian Monitoring and City Emergency Braking System, the lane keeping assistant Lane Assist, Hill Start Assist, the proactive occupant protection system, and the Blind Spot Detection lane change assist system with the integrated Rear Traffic Alert. Also available as options are the Driver Alert System, automatic adaptive cruise control and Park Assist.

The T-Cross provides high levels of connectivity and allows smartphones to be charged inductively.

Three continents

The new T-Cross model is manufactured at the Spanish Volkswagen factory in Navarra for Europe. Versions tailored for local markets will be produced in South America and China. The T-Cross will not be offered in North America as Volkswagen considers the car to be too small to appeal to American customers.

Prices will start at just under €18,000 in Germany and the first vehicles will be available in the spring of 2019.

Image: Cara Delevingne, British supermodel and so-called testimonial for the T-Cross