Volkswagen T-Cross SEL

THE T-Cross is Volkswagen’s latest and smallest SUV model, a compact five-seater with class-leading interior space, many safety and driver-assist features as standard and destined to make quite an impact in the crowded SUV sector.

There are two 1.0 litre turbo petrol engines available, offering 94 hp and 113 hp and all models are two-wheel drive with a choice of manual or auto transmission. There are four trim levels and prices start at €18,967 (£16,995).

Volkswagen says the T-Cross is ‘urban friendly’ and majors on practicality and convenience without sacrificing style, a point well made as I found during my week-long test drive.

The T-Cross has elegant styling and its size will seem to many people to be ideal – it’s not as bulky as many SUV models, yet is still surprisingly roomy. Boot space is 385 litres but it can be expanded to 455 litres by just sliding the rear seats forward meaning they can still be used for passengers. But if the rear seats are folded flat, luggage space is then a class-leading 1,281 litres.

The cabin has a quality appearance with durable materials and the dashboard has an efficient user-friendly layout. Overall the T-Cross impresses with attention to detail and VW’s traditionally high standard of fit and finish.

My test model was an upper-range SEL version  priced at €24,151 (£21,655). With the 113 hp engine and manual gearbox it has a top speed of 193 kph (120 mph) and a 0-100 kph time of 10.2 seconds. Average fuel economy is 17 kpl (48.2 mpg) and emissions are modest at 112 g/km.

I found it quiet and responsive to drive, with accurate steering, supple ride quality and assured handling. It provided the sort of smooth easy feel that makes everyday driving a real pleasure.

Standard kit includes sat-nav, connectivity including smartphone mirroring, roof rails, dual-zone climate control, LED headlights with auto adjustment, adaptive cruise control and a raft of safety features including city emergency braking, predictive pedestrian protection, front and rear parking sensors and a driver alert system.

The compact SUV sector is hard-fought, but the T-Cross ticks so many boxes when it comes to everyday family requirements, it seems certain to become a big seller.