THE facelifted VW T-Cross, its a sign of investment considering some of established manufacturers are scaling down production due to the controversial tariffs matter in the US.
Popular in mzansi following its entry as far back as 2019, this specific model has maintained its status and made it a popular choice for buyers in this segment.
Upon its delivery to inspect how it performs on the road, the exterior is loaded with lighting system, and new VW’s ID Lighting upfront and a full LED system at the rear. Both systems receive a long LED lightbar connecting the left and right lenses.
This came in handy especially when driving in the evening or facing rain, since we’re in the rainy season!
The T-Cross Style boasts larger, 17-inch “Manila” alloy wheels, which are a step up from the base model’s 16-inch options and fill the wheel arches better, giving the car a more substantial stance. This trim also adds chrome and silver accents, such as silver roof rails, providing a functional and stylish element. You will also find subtle chrome accents on the front bumper or around the fog lights.
I did investigate, it has a balance in rugged roads I was traveling on, making it perfect for off-road or city driving experience.
As a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch) transmission, it delivers combination of 85kW and 200Nm, which translates to it being a little slow off the line but picks up speed very quickly.
Impressively, it does 0-100km sprint in just over 9 seconds, and can reach a limited top speed of 193km/h, especially on open roads, between Jozi and Ventersdorp.
The interior has been upgraded, such as soft-touch materials on the dashboard. The Style trim includes front sport seats offering better support and comfort for the driver and passenger and upholstery is a step up from the base model, often featuring a more stylish cloth. Ambient lighting is a standard feature on this trim level.
The new free-standing infotainment display is the interior’s central element, thus it gives a minimalist look. It also features standard with automatic climate control, a system that has a touch-sensitive control panel (often prone to fingerprints) but allows separate temperature settings for the driver and front passenger.
Also fitted are more advanced Digital Cockpit Pro, a larger, high-resolution screen measuring 10.25 inches that is highly customisable. The central infotainment system is an 8.0-inch touchscreen display. The system is intuitive and responsive, featuring a clean user interface. It is a major improvement over previous generations.
You also get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone’s functions without needing to plug in a cable. The system also includes a wireless charging pad for compatible devices, and multiple USB-C ports for charging devices or making a wired connection.
A standout feature is the sliding rear bench seat. This allows you to prioritise either rear passenger legroom or boot space. You can slide the seats forward to expand the cargo capacity from 385 litres to 455 litres.
Talk of luggage compartment, it did accommodate some luggage- thanks to my elder sister, who is prone to such, especially when doing long haul.
On the safety, according to VW it has earned a 5 Star NCAP rating, due to its comprehensive list of safety equipment such as:
- Airbags: The T-Cross Style has six airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags to protect occupants in a crash.
- Robust Structure: The vehicle’s body is engineered to maintain a stable passenger compartment in the event of an impact.
- Proactive Occupant Protection System: This system can sense an imminent collision and automatically take protective measures, such as closing windows and pre-tensioning seat belts.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors: These anchor points are standard and provide a secure way to install child safety seats.
Active Safety and Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The 2025 T-Cross Style has a range of ADAS features, many of which fall under Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE suite. This system includes the following:
- Front Assist with City Emergency Braking: This crucial safety feature uses radar to monitor the distance to the vehicle ahead. If it detects a potential collision, it provides visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver doesn’t react, the system can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate an impact. It also includes Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system goes beyond standard cruise control by maintaining a set distance from the vehicle in front. The “Stop & Go” functionality allows it to bring the car to a complete stop in traffic and automatically resume driving.
- Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System): This system detects lane markings using a camera and helps keep the vehicle centred in its lane. If the car starts drifting, it warns and can even apply gentle steering corrections.
- Lane Change System (Side Assist) with Rear Traffic Alert: This system monitors your blind spots for other vehicles. If you indicate a lane change while a car is in your blind spot, a warning light flashes on the side mirror. The Rear Traffic Alert function warns you of crossing traffic when reversing out of a parking space and can automatically brake if a collision is imminent.
- Park Assist: This feature can help with parallel and perpendicular parking by assisting with steering, while the driver controls the accelerator and brake.
- Rear View Camera and Parking Distance Sensors: The T-Cross Style includes front and rear sensors and a rear-view camera to assist with parking and manoeuvring.
- IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights: Standard on the Style trim, these advanced headlights can automatically adjust the beam pattern to provide optimal illumination without dazzling oncoming drivers.
- Driver Alert System: This system monitors driver behaviour for signs of fatigue and recommends taking a break.
- Hill Start Assist: Prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting on a slope.
On petrol consumption, it claimed figures of 6.5 L/100km.
It retails for R511 300.
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (6)
Fuel 1-10 (5)
Image supplied (VW T-Cross Style delivers combination of 85kW and 200Nm, which translates to it being a little slow off the line but picks up speed very quickly).
