• No hybrids, but efficient petrol engines
• Average warranty length
• Decent reliability reputation

What are the running costs?

While the T-Cross might seem behind the times in the fact you can’t get it as a hybrid, it’s not particularly a disadvantage considering the efficiency of its petrol engine. Volkswagen claims 50mpg for both the 1.0-litre engines, but we managed more than this on a steady motorway commute. 

Even the 1.5-litre petrol engine isn’t too far behind on paper, with Volkswagen quoting a fuel economy figure of 47.1mpg. It’s worth being mindful that the T-Cross’s CO2 emissions are higher than hybrid rivals, though, ranging from 127-135g/km, depending on version.

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As it’s based on a Polo, insurance premiums shouldn’t cost too much either, with the T-Cross sitting in insurance groups as low as eight. To benefit from the lowest premiums, it’s worth opting for the entry-level 95hp petrol model.

Servicing and warranty

The T-Cross comes with Volkswagen’s standard three-year warranty included. There is no mileage limit in the first two years and then a third year which has a total 60,000 mileage cap. You can extend this warranty further at additional cost – with a typical one-year extension costing around £200. 

Volkswagen’s warranty does lag behind plenty of rivals, however, including Kia’s seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty and also Toyota’s warranty, which extends for an additional 12 months after every service at a Toyota main dealer, up to when the car is 10 years old or has done 100,000 miles. 

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With many of the T-Cross’s parts shared with other small Volkswagens (or those from the wider VW Group), servicing costs should be competitive. A simple oil service and inspection at a VW dealer will cost £220 (as of August 2024). 

Reliability 

The T-Cross has a decent reliability reputation, and benefits from sharing a variety of parts with some of the most popular small cars – including the Volkswagen Polo and Skoda Fabia. We are aware of a few issues with the car, though, including squeaks from the A-pillar (the pillar that helps to support the windscreen).

Some owners have reported issues with the clutch and juddering where the car feels like it’s about to stall or the engine cuts out completely. Make sure you test drive any example you’re looking to buy (whether new or old) for this reason.