Volkswagen T-Cross review - MPG, CO2 and running costs
Decent fuel economy and solid residual values point to the T-Cross being reasonable to run
Running costs are a major consideration for the majority of small SUV buyers. The T-Cross isn’t available with a hybrid powertrain like the Renault Captur, or as an EV like the Peugeot 2008, but thankfully both the current petrol and older diesel engines on offer can provide good fuel returns.
Basic T-Cross models come with a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet. The entry-level 94bhp version is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, and manages a claimed maximum of 49.4mpg, with CO2 emissions from 130g/km.
The 108bhp model gets a six-speed manual gearbox, has a 49.6mpg claimed fuel economy, and emits 130g/km of CO2. If you opt for the DSG auto, claimed fuel economy drop to 45.6mpg, while CO2 emissions increase to 141g/km.
When we tested the T-Cross Move with the 108bhp engine and manual ‘box, we managed to average well over 40mpg with ease, and got into the fifties when driving more gently on A-roads.
The formerly available 1.6-litre diesel model offers a maximum 54.3mpg with the five-speed manual transmission, although the figure drops to 52.3mpg when the engine is mated to the seven-speed auto 'box. The diesel emits between 136g/km and 146g/km, depending on trim level.
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Used car tests
If you feel the need for more power and choose the 1.5-litre three-pot turbo petrol engine, VW says this motor will average 48.9mpg, and emits 137g/km of CO2 in R-Line trim or 135g/km in SEL cars.
Insurance Groups
The Volkswagen T-Cross will be relatively cheap to insure, much like the majority of its rivals. Move-spec models with the lower-powered engine sit in group 10, while those fitted with the 108bhp engine sit in group 11. On the other end of the spectrum, an R-Line model with the most powerful engine and automatic gearbox tops out at group 17. Equivalent versions of the SEAT Arona and Citroen C3 Aircross sit in similar insurance groups.
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Depreciation
Our experts predict that the T-Cross will hold onto between 54 and 61 per cent of its value after 36,000 miles or three years, with the entry-level Move models expected to retain the most.
These figures are above average for the class, most likely thanks to the cachet of the VW badge. By contrast, the Skoda Kamiq is expected to retain around 52 per cent of its value, and the Renault Captur is projected to retain 54 per cent on average.
To get an accurate valuation on a specific model check out our valuation tool...