Road test Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI DSG 115 CV: ready for the city

Over time, we have witnessed how the SUV sector has gradually taken over different segments. Today, there is a large number of vehicles belonging to this branch of the automotive world that have come to dominate the much-loved city car segment. We are referring to B-SUVs, the category to which our protagonist directly belongs, the Volkswagen T-Cross. This name corresponds to the smallest SUV from the German brand, which arrives ready to present itself as an ideal ally for tackling the city and other terrains, but has it managed to do so? Let’s find out.

Equipped with the 1.0 TSI engine producing 115 CV, the DSG automatic gearbox and the Advance trim, the small T-Cross has tried to win our approval. Without a doubt, the combination it offers is extremely appealing, especially for those looking for a modern, stylish SUV that delivers a more than satisfactory performance.

Modern but true to its principles

Volkswagen is in the middle of a transition era, as it moves towards a new design language that arrived with the T-Cross and has continued through the recently presented Golf 8. However, the designers in Wolfsburg have been traditional and faithful to their principles when conceiving their most modest SUV.

The T-Cross will try to win us over with an imposing presence, conveyed through its bold front end. This is dominated by a considerably sized bumper that, besides integrating the fog lights, features various chrome details. The grille gives the same impression, with a black panel and a chrome strip running across its full width, creating an attractive contrast.

It is at the side of the T-Cross where we see its most SUV-like character. This impression comes from pronounced wheel arches, a considerable ground clearance and roof rails. But the rear is the area that shows the most innovation. Newly designed taillights with a somewhat retro look steal the spotlight, together with a central strip that, although it has no lighting function, joins both , adding a dose of modernity to the overall look.

A modern yet spartan cabin

Volkswagen has wanted to reaffirm these new design patterns through the cabin of the small T-Cross. To do so, certain elements have evolved but, as with the exterior, in a very conservative way. This should not be seen as negative, since the German firm has managed to create something new that does not require a period of adaptation. It is very easy to find your way around the interior of the Volkswagen SUV, as everything is where it should be.

The steering wheel features a new design capable of bringing a breath of fresh air not only to the T-Cross, but also to any other model in the brand that uses it. Behind it sits the instrument cluster which, in the case of the test unit, was analogue, but optionally it can be equipped with the innovative Virtual Cockpit.

The dashboard is dominated by an 8-inch touchscreen. As is customary in vehicles from the Volkswagen Group, it features intuitive, easy-to-use software, complemented by a fluid response. However, as a counterpoint to these positive aspects, the interior of the T-Cross is built from hard plastics which, although they have very good fit and finish, feel somewhat coarse and inappropriate for a car at this price point and aimed at urban use.

Space in the front seats is superb, and driving the T-Cross is a pleasant and relaxed experience. The same can be said of the second-row seats, where two adults can sit comfortably thanks to more than adequate headroom and generous legroom. And, although the middle seat is somewhat narrow and tight, this is offset by the capacity of the rear bench to slide longitudinally, which means we can gain space in the boot or, alternatively, for the passengers in the rear seats.

Speaking of the boot, it offers a capacity of 385 litres, framed by a flat loading lip and very usable shapes. The second-row seats can be moved forward by up to 14 centimetres, raising the total capacity to 455 litres.

Ready for any circumstance

But enough about design or space. The time has come to get down to the task of telling you what driving the Volkswagen T-Cross is like and what sensations it produces once you take the wheel. But before getting into it, I feel obliged to introduce you to its mechanical layout.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, the unit that accompanied me for a week was powered by the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine capable of delivering 115 CV and 200 Nm of torque. These figures were managed through the already familiar DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox with seven speeds.

Despite its three-cylinder configuration, the engine does not vibrate excessively and generally has a friendly, calm character. From around 2,000 rpm the 200 Nm of torque make their presence felt, providing a strong push in the early stages of the rev counter. However, once past 3,500 rpm, the 1.0 TSI shows a very linear and even somewhat bland behaviour. It is no wonder that its performance is more than sufficient to handle any terrain.

The T-Cross feels most at home in the city. Thanks to its compact dimensions, good visibility and a really good turning circle, we can navigate the streets without complications behind the wheel of the German SUV. This task is also made easier by the DSG gearbox, whose smooth and quick behaviour will make us completely forget that gear changes are taking place. The only thing that weighs the experience down in this context is the suspension, which has a rather firm setup and makes speed bumps and broken asphalt feel more harshly than in other models. Fuel consumption in the city stands at a very respectable 7.6 litres/100 km.

On the motorway, the T-Cross surprises with its solidity. Despite its compact dimensions — 4.11 m long, 1.78 m wide and 1.55 m high — the Volkswagen SUV rides with composure. The 115 CV and 200 Nm of torque are more than enough to reach 120 km/h and carry out overtaking manoeuvres with ease. On this type of road it is easy to achieve consumption figures of 5.8/5.9 litres/100 km.

On open roads we find a car that, although not aimed at sporty driving, rewards us with a more than correct behaviour. Thanks to that rather firm suspension setup, the small T-Cross controls body roll very well. However, its soft and rather uncommunicative steering makes it lose some effectiveness.

Conclusion

Volkswagen continues to bet on the SUV segment, which is experiencing strong growth at present. The T-Cross arrives as the most modest option within the German family, but with a series of practical solutions and a driving character that will make us consider it against various competing models.

However, the finishes of its interior and a starting price with the 1.0 TSI engine and Advance trim of 21,310 euros make the Volkswagen T-Cross look like an expensive option without strong arguments to justify that price, although discounts or financing can always help adjust it. In its favour, I want to stress once again its impeccable dynamic behaviour, very contained consumption and a smooth, capable engine.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverVolkswagen T-Cross7 versions · from 25,550 €