Volkswagen T-Cross 2025 review: European city SUV gets midlife update to better rival Mazda CX-3

The 2025 Volkswagen T-Cross is playing in a highly competitive segment in Australia, with light SUVs quickly becoming one of the go-to options for younger and older drivers, who might have opted for a small hatchback in the past. Either way, it's up against the popular but ageing Mazda CX-3 as well as the newer Toyota Yaris Cross.

It's fortunate, then, that VW has given the T-Cross a midlife update, with standard equipment significantly increased from the entry-level grade and beyond. That said, these lighting, multimedia and safety upgrades have come at a cost, with the resulting prices increases up to 10 per cent in the base model.

In this expert review, CarsGuide Senior Journalist Richard Berry gets behind the wheel of the updated T-Cross at its national media launch to find out how much better it has become without any major mechanical changes. Yep, it's still powered by an 85kW/200Nm 1.0-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine that's mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

#Volkswagen #TCross #Review

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Timecodes:
00:00 Intro
00:33 Design
01:18 Pricing and features
02:34 Practicality
04:00 Under the bonnet
04:27 Efficiency
05:26 Driving
09:21 Safety
10:32 Ownership
11:12 Verdict
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Read Richard's full review:
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CarsGuide - Go beyond the test drive

[anthonywillis]

I have one of these to assist my poor ability of vehicle entry. It is a previous model but has many of the facilities the revamped model has. I have the 1.5 ltr turbo auto and I have been astonished by all this car does. And I no longer have to struggle to enter or exit. So many safety features also that I will leave others to list.

[MLife]

I like your reviews but I do get annoyed when you rough-house with the cars. It just seems a bit disrespectful to put that nasty scuff in the centre seat when you jumped in.
As for the car, I love the T-Cross but I'd prefer the 1.5 litre engine that is offered in the UK.

[familyaccount]

With a 18% price increase on the mid spec model, and a 55% increase on the 5 year maintenance plan, this vehicle cannot present great value. The Skoda Kamiq offers far greater value with a 7 year warranty. No mention of significant warranty issues with the DSG gearbox and premature brake pad wear. You have to be stupid to spend money on this car (thanks Mara).😂

[wrigzzx]

I realise handling is subjective, but I drove the old model before I drove a cx3 and the T-cross handled like a boat. Agree this is a great little engine though.

[lucassitanggang]

My choice:
1. Citroën C3 Aircross ✅
2. Volkswagen T-Cross ✅
3. Toyota Raize ❌ no