Volkswagen T-Cross Life 85TSI review reveals smart package

With a new version of the Volkswagen T-Cross SUV coming soon, watch for outgoing model bargains.

New models are typically a win for both buyer and manufacturer.

Improved safety, technology and design are the usual improvements. Volkswagen has an updated version of its T-Cross compact SUV coming in September.

Based on the Polo hatch architecture, it’s an extremely capable platform from which to work.

While we sampled the base model Life derivative during our family test drive, Volkswagen is offering the up-spec Style version for $35,990 drive-away.

There will be good deals available on both the Life and Style models leading up to the updated T-Cross’s arrival – with some dealers selling demonstrator models with less than 1000km on the clock for below $33k.

What do you get?

The colour palette has the standard greys, black and white, but the T-Cross is aimed at a younger cohort so those chasing more personality will appreciate the option of orange, blue and turquoise.

Also indicative of the perceived market is the prioritising of tech – with wireless phone charging, four USB-C charging ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an eight-inch infotainment system with six speakers.

Basic and simple, it’s easily identified as a base model with ample hard plastics, along with manual single zone aircon, turnkey ignition and analogue driver gauges.

Style models do gain superior kit, previously the jump was about $3000 with the current $1k discount it worth considering given it comes with safety upgrades such as radar cruise control, 17-inch alloys (Life rides on 16s), blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert, auto high beam, as well as luxuries like dual zone aircon, sports front seats, keyless entry and power folding side door mirrors.

Our test vehicle was armed with the optional 300-watt beats sound system, wireless smartphone mirroring functionality, satnav and digital driver instruments – all are part of the Sound and Vision Package which was $2200. Some of the demo models currently available already have it installed.

To get the Life version with the same safety kit as the Style it’s an extra $1200.

Covered by a five-year warranty, Volkswagen offers two prepaid servicing plans. The five-year plan is $2850 which is a saving of about $570 compared to paying as you go … the three-year offer saves about $200 and costs $1500.

Interior features of the Volkswagen T-Cross 85TSI Life.

How was the drive?

Composed and beautifully mannered, the T-Cross boasts impressive overall poise. Tested in metropolitan confines, on the highway and on surging undulating rural roads, the compact SUV had balance and confidence in all conditions – with only harsh ruts and potholes exposing a firm suspension design.

Acceleration can be subdued as the little 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine gets things moving and it comes with the typical three-potter engine soundtrack.

Shifting into sport mode does improve the right foot response.

The T-Cross trims through the gears low in the rev range and barely works up a sweat – achieving impressive efficiency results if you’re not gunning for quarter mile benchmarks.

Our week-long test saw the T-Cross return 5.9L/100km, while one highway trip was less than 5.0L/100km (using premium unleaded).

Boot space is 385L, but that can expand to 455L with the rear seats rolled forward on a rail-style system which does impede rear passenger legroom.

Our weekly grocery shop of about 10 bags spilt into the back seat with the boot at capacity.

Back seat space is OK for two adults, although the front passengers need to be mindful of not pushing the chairs too far rearward.

Once up and rolling, the Volkswagen T-Cross performs admirably on the open road.

Would you buy one?

Kel: While I liked the drive and size, the lack of radar cruise control, dual-zone aircon and keyless entry would mean I’d have to go for the Style variant. Even then there would be no heated seats option, and that’s my minimum requirement nowadays. We recently drove the slightly larger T-Roc, that would be my pick.

Grant: The new model coming in September will have a slightly different exterior and soft-touch dashboard materials, along with a hefty step forward in features for the Life variant. For a compact SUV it feels outstandingly well put together and it offers great confidence in charging directions. Current deals make the Style’s improved safety kit a no-brainer. Our family needs more space but empty nesters and young drivers will find the T-Cross a charming little all-rounder.

Originally published as Volkswagen T-Cross Life 85TSI review reveals smart package