Overview

Volkswagen has one of the widest ranges of SUVs of any manufacturer, but its smallest and most accessible high-riding model is the T-Cross. Introduced in 2019, it’s been a regular on our list of the best compact SUVs owing to its spacious interior, low running costs and decent driving experience. 

It’s established itself as an appealing small family car, undercutting Volkswagen’s popular T-Roc on price yet offering far more space than you’d get from a Polo supermini, which the T-Cross shares underpinnings with. 

The compact SUV segment is now bursting with options as almost every mainstream manufacturer has a car in this class. Sibling cars to the T-Cross include the more stylish Seat Arona and more sensible Skoda Kamiq, while the Ford Puma and Nissan Juke are each among the most popular new cars in the UK. 

Other credible options in this class include the Hyundai Kona and Renault Captur, while we think the Toyota Yaris Cross makes a great choice if you’re looking to cut your running costs owing to the impressive efficiency of its hybrid engine. 

Volkswagen introduced a revised version of its T-Cross in 2024 to try and keep it competitive. Key changes included an improved interior with more premium materials, as previously the cabin could feel quite cheap. Elsewhere, it received a new infotainment system and more optional technology – including fancy Matrix LED headlights, which have trickled down from VW’s far more expensive cars. 

Engine choice on the T-Cross consists of 1.0- and 1.5-litre petrol engines with between 95hp and 150hp, with four trim levels on offer – Life, Match, Style and R-Line. Prices start from £24,125, making it one of the more expensive cars in its class, though standard equipment is impressive. All models come with a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ambient lighting and electric folding mirrors.

The mid-spec Match model is our pick of the line-up as this adds more stylish alloy wheels, a reversing camera and keyless entry for hardly any more money than the entry trim. 

Over the next few pages we’ll assess all key aspects of the Volkswagen T-Cross – including its engines, interior, practicality and running costs – and most importantly, whether you should consider buying one. If you want to find out why you should trust Parkers’ reviews, read about how we test cars.