The Volkswagen T-Cross and T-Roc are two popular SUVs from Volkswagen's lineup. The T-Cross is the smaller of the two and was introduced in 2019 as Volkswagen's entry-level SUV. The T-Cross is based on the VW Polo.
The T-Roc hit the market in 2017, and nowadays sits between the T-Cross and the larger Tiguan in Volkswagen's SUV lineup. The T-Roc is based on the VW Golf.
Car Comparison: Volkswagen T-Cross versus Volkswagen T-Roc
- Styling and Interior
- Practicality
- Driving Performance
- Technology and Equipment
- Running Costs
- Verdict
Styling and Interior
Despite being relatively small in terms of overall dimensions, the T-Cross stands out with its funky and distinctive SUV-like styling, making it an attractive option for those seeking a bold and adventurous appearance. However, the interior quality of the T-Cross has a standard of finish that falls below expectations for the Volkswagen brand.
Like the T-Cross, the T-Roc boasts enough in the way of SUV styling cues to look rugged and robust. It's a bigger vehicle than the T-Cross and also boasts a roomier interior. The T-Roc's interior quality came under criticism when it was first launched, but Volkswagen made improvements for the facelift model that arrived in 2022.
Practicality
The T-Cross offers a roomy interior by class standards, providing ample space for passengers and their luggage. The sliding rear bench, which is not available in the T-Roc, allows for more flexibility in balancing legroom and boot space. With the seats slid all the way back you get 385 litres of luggage capacity. This rises to 445 litres when the seats are moved forwards, although rear legroom will be at a premium.
The T-Roc offers a larger boot capacity of 445 litres, which rivals the MINI Countryman's and surpasses the Audi Q2's. It also more comfortably seats five passengers, offering plentiful leg- and headroom. However, if boot space is a priority, note that all-wheel-drive T-Roc models have reduced luggage capacity of 392 litres.
Driving Performance
Both models are known for their good driving performance. The T-Cross is easy to drive and handles neatly, making it suitable for city driving and daily commutes. The T-Roc delivers more engaging handling and a more comfortable ride, ultimately making it more fun on a twisty road.
Both cars offer a range of engines (many of which are the same such as the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol), all of which do a good job of blending effortless performance with good refinement. Those seeking a performance SUV will need to go for the T-Roc R with its impressive 296bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit.
Technology and Equipment
Both models come with a range of standard features, with the T-Cross boasting an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The T-Roc offers more trim levels, with the R-Line featuring additional sporty looks and a fully digital cockpit.
Unusually, the T-Roc is one of the few SUVs that also offers a convertible bodystyle, perfect for those seeking an open-air driving experience.
Running Costs
A T-Cross with VW's 1.6-litre turbodiesel returns 53.3-54.3mpg with a manual gearbox, and 51.4-52.3mpg with an automatic one. The 94bhp 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine achieves 47.9-48.7mpg, while the 113bhp version has 46.3-47.1mpg. The updated version of this engine matches the 94bhp with 47.9-48.7mpg, but loses around 4mpg when fitted with a DSG auto. The 1.5-litre petrol yields 42.8-47.1mpg with a DSG auto and isn't available with a manual gearbox.
For the T-Roc, the same 1.6-litre TDI diesel returns up to 54.3mpg, while the 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel provides up to 53.3mpg with a manual gearbox, or 51.4mpg with a DSG auto. Real-world driving should yield around 50mpg for the diesel models.
The 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine approaches 50mpg, while the 1.5-litre version delivers 40-45mpg, with manual versions being slightly more efficient than those with a DSG auto. The more powerful 187bhp 2.0-litre TSI is likely to give 35-40mpg due to increased power and four-wheel drive. The high-performance R version can be expected to deliver mpg in the mid to low 30s.
Verdict
Both the Volkswagen T-Cross and T-Roc have their merits and cater to different preferences and needs. The T-Roc is the smaller and more affordable choice, but doesn't give as much away in interior space as you might expect.
Both models offer a good balance of practicality and driving performance, but if interior quality and fun behind the wheel are your priorities, we'd recommend stretching to a post-2022 T-Roc as the best option. If budget-friendliness and city driving are priorities, the T-Cross is a better bet.
Choose the Volkswagen T-Cross if:
- You prefer a smaller, city-friendly SUV with a funky design.
- You value the sliding rear bench for flexible luggage and legroom options.
- You prioritise better fuel efficiency and a more budget-friendly option.
Search for a Volkswagen T-Cross on CarGurus
Choose the Volkswagen T-Roc if:
- You seek a roomier SUV with a more comfortable ride and engaging handling.
- You desire a more substantial boot capacity and spacious cabin for passengers.
- You are interested in a performance-oriented model like the T-Roc R.
Search for a Volkswagen T-Roc on CarGurus