Volkswagen’s T-Cross crossover SUV receives a makeover for 2024

The Volkswagen T-Cross is a silent competitor in the crossover market here in the country. It won’t necessarily find itself being a primary subject in a discussion about crossovers, but, it’s also not lagging behind either. It’s the same case overseas, this subcompact crossover has quietly achieved remarkable success with 1.2 million units delivered despite not receiving much attention. Now, approximately four years after its launch, this SUV is receiving a mid-cycle update to maintain its appeal in a highly competitive segment.

As we’ve seen from spy photos earlier in the year, the changes begin at the crossover’s front end. Matrix LED headlights are now standard on Europe’s Style and R-Line models, with the option to add them to the Life variant. A light bar connects these headlights on either side of the VW badge.

Moving ahead, Volkswagen is leaving behind traditional halogen headlights and equipping all T-Cross variants with non-adaptive LED headlights as standard. Furthermore, regardless of the trim level, every T-Cross will feature silver underbody protection. The base model will sport 16-inch alloys, while the higher-end versions will receive larger 17-inch wheels. The images of the 2024 T-Cross used in this article are the top-end R-Line variant in a color Volkswagen named Grape Yellow.

Towards the rear, the taillights of the T-Cross now feature an X motif, creating a visually appealing design element that converges at the VW badge at the center. With a sturdier drawbar, it can now accommodate heavier items, supporting up to 20 kg more weight compared to its pre-facelift version. The bottom part of the rear is also less busy, sporting a simple black trim that connects the reflectors flanking the sides as well as a final piece of silver trim underneath that highlights the bumper. Thanks to the redesigned bumpers, the 2024 T-Cross is now one inch longer than before. 

Moving to the interior, all 2024 T-Cross models will get a new instrument cluster that measures eight or 10 inches depending on the variant. Also different depending on the T-Cross is the infotainment system. The lower-cost T-Cross models feature an 8-inch diagonal screen while opting for the more luxurious configurations bags a larger 9.2-inch setup. Volkswagen emphasizes that the infotainment system incorporates cutting-edge hardware and software. In models equipped with automatic climate control, the console features illuminated touch and slider controls for enhanced usability and extra visual appeal.

The engine options for the T-Cross consist of two options. Leading the lineup is the 1.0 TSI engine, a turbocharged three-cylinder powerplant, available in two power outputs: 95 hp and 116 hp. The former variant is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the latter offers a choice between a six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. For those who want the DSG transmission, there's a larger 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine available, generating 150 hp. It's important to note that all three engines deliver power solely to the front wheels, as is customary for VW Group models based on the MQB A0 platform.

If ever Volkswagen decides to bring the refreshed T-Cross into the country, we can expect it to carry the 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and six-speed Tiptronic automatic combo. This power unit generates 111 hp and 145 Nm of torque. Since the T-Cross facelift has just been revealed, it might be some time before VW Philippines decide if this crossover will come to our shores.