Entry-level VW T-Cross could be the pick of the range

TimesLIVE

7 days ago

In time, the market evolved with more budget-friendly offerings such as the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonetin addition to the Suzuki Vitara Brezza, all made in India, espousing emerging market sensibilities and pricing that reflected this thrifty slant.
The T-Cross was set apart by the typical Volkswagen brand hallmarks, from sturdy on-road characteristics to a solid interior (even though certain surfaces were not all that plush), bolstered by punchy engines and attractive styling.
As expected, the model carried a more premium price tag versus rivals. While this was largely warranted from a quality and substance perspective, the level of standard specification, it was felt, could have been more generous.
That criticism was given further credence when players such as the Haval Jolion and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro came to town, offering a much longer list of goodies at prices that upstaged the German.
However, loyal fans continue to appreciate what the T-Cross represents. Even brand impartial shoppers without an allegiance concede to the strength of the Volkswagen emblem, its proven reputation in South Africa and the fact that its local manufacturing operations contribute greatly to the economy.
Though it is getting on in years, the T-Cross remains an important vehicle for the Volkswagen brand locally, boosting the compact end of the portfolio alongside the Polo Vivo and Polo. In 2027 the range will gain the Tera, which would realistically replace the T-Cross in Mzansi as the most attainable Volkswagen crossover.