Which 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross variant should you buy? [Comparison Guide] 

Updated Nov 24, 2022 | Same topic: Which Car Variant to Buy?

The top-spec SE variant has more safety features. 

Volkswagen Philippines’ latest addition to its model lineup is the all-new T-Cross subcompact crossover. So, if you’re in the market for a crossover, you might be considering this model from the German marque. 

A picture of the Volkswagen T-Cross

The all-new 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross in Tribu Yellow

This new model has two variants for the Philippine market: the entry-level T-Cross S, and the top-spec T-Cross SE.  So, to guide prospective buyers, we’ll be pointing out just how different these two are from each other. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Exterior 

In terms of size, both the T-Cross S and SE are pretty much identical. Both have a length of 4,218mm, a width of 1,760mm, and a height of 1,599mm. Both also come with a wheelbase length of 2,651mm. 

A picture of the side of the all-new VW T-Cross

The new T-Cross from the side

As far as exterior equipment, both are equipped with a rear fog lamp, electronic side mirrors with side turn lamps, roof rails, and a rear spoiler. The top-spec SE however does have LED headlamps, whereas the S only comes with a pair of halogens. Also, the higher-spec variant uses a set of 17-inch alloys, while the S rides on a smaller 16-inch set. 

Other features available on the SE that are absent on the lower-spec S include daytime running lamps, front fog lamps, and a panoramic sunroof.  

A picture of the T-Cross's rear end

A closer look at the T-Cross' rear end

Lastly, the S variant only has two available colors: Chinchilla Gray and Polar White. The SE meanwhile, can come in those two aforementioned colors, as well as Syringa Violet, Tribu Yellow, and Romance Red. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Interior 

As a five-door subcompact crossover, both the T-Cross SE and S can comfortably seat up to five occupants including the driver. Both also come with 12-volt accessory outlets, manually adjustable driver and front passenger seats, a four-piece speaker system, a multi-function steering wheel, and cruise control. 

A picture of the VW T-Cross' interior

The T-Cross is colorful on the inside too

To keep its occupants cool, both variants come standard with a manual air-conditioning system. The SE comes with rear vents, while the S does not.  

Moreover, the top-spec SE features a different touchscreen headunit. While the S is fitted with an eight-inch unit, the higher-spec variant gets a 9.2-inch unit. Both however, are capable of connecting to smartphones via Apple CarPlay, MirrorLink, Bluetooth, Aux-in, or USB.

A picture of the VW T-Cross' rear seats

The new Volkswagen crossover's rear cabin 

Other interior features that are standard on the top-spec SE but are not present on the S are the following: a push to start button, ambient lighting, and an LED reading light. The SE also comes with leather and fabric seats, while the S only has fabric seats.  

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Engine and Performance 

Powering both variants of the T-Cross is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. At most, it can make up to 113 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. Power is sent to its front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.  

A picture of the VW T-Cross' engine

Both variants are propelled by a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine

Standard on the T-Cross is a MacPherson strut type front suspension and a composite torsion beam semi-independent rear suspension. Both variants also use disc brakes for both rear and front wheels. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Safety 

In terms of safety, both trims of the T-Cross come equipped with a driver and front passenger airbags, ISOFIX, anti-lock braking, stability control, hill hold control, traction control, rear parking sensors, an engine immobilizer, as well as a tire pressure monitor. 

The top-spec SE however has more airbags than the S trim. It comes standard with driver and front passenger side airbags, as well as head curtain airbags. Also, parking it can be easier thanks to its rear camera. Lastly, the SE also has an autonomous emergency braking system. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Price 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants 

Price 

T-Cross S 180 MPI AT 

Php 1,098,000 

T-Cross SE 180 MPI AT 

Php 1,198,000 

Volkswagen T-Cross Variants: Conclusion 

To conclude, the biggest difference between the T-Cross SE and the T-Cross S is their safety kits. The top-spec SE might be better at keeping its occupants safe in the event of a crash as it comes with side and curtain airbags that the S variant lacks. Parking will also be easier thanks to its reverse camera, and it will provide more forward visibility since it comes with LED headlamps, as well as front fog lamps. On top of that, it also has automatic emergency braking, which can be useful in the chaotic traffic common in major Philippine cities. 

A shot of the rear quarter side of the Volkswagen T-Cross

The T-Cross in general has the potential to be a great daily driver

When it comes to the model’s mechanical bits and infotainment system though, there aren’t many differences. They use the same 1.5-liter mill, and the same brake and suspension setup as well. Sure, the SE’s touchscreen unit is a bit larger, but it's only a one-inch difference. 

Did this help you differentiate the Volkswagen T-Cross SE from the T-Cross S? If it did, read more car buying and selling guides here on Philkotse.com

Know more about Volkswagen T-Cross 2024

Volkswagen T-Cross

The Volkswagen T-Cross is a five-seater, subcompact crossover. Locally, it has only one different variant priced at Php 1,340,000.

Size-wise, the T-Cross is 4,218mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,599mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,651mm and a ground clearance of 185mm. 

Under the hood of the Volkswagen T-Cross is a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine that can make 111 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. The said engine is then paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, which sends power to its front wheels. 

Locally, the Volkswagen T-Cross competes against the likes of the Toyota Raize, Kia Seltos, MG ZS, Geely Coolray, Honda HR-V, among others. 

Volkswagen T-Cross: Is it your next crossover? | Philkotse Reviews

>>> New and used Volkswagen T-Cross 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Volkswagen T-Cross Launch

The Volkswagen T-Cross first made its world premiere in October 2018. Volkswagen Philippines officially launched the T-Cross in May 2021 offering two variants that are both powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. The said power unit can put out 113 hp and 145 Nm of torque. The engine is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen T-Cross Exterior

The Volkswagen T-Cross comes with a sharp and distinctive exterior design. It is equipped with sharp-looking headlights, and a large mesh grille, and it is the first locally sold car model that features the new Volkswagen logo. Turning to the side, the new T-Cross comes with straight character lines, a distinct design detail that Volkswagen is known for. The rear is fitted with large wraparound taillights, a spoiler, and a muscular bumper. The Volkswagen T-Cross is offered with five exterior color options: Tribu, Romance Red, Chinchilla Gray, Syringa Violet, and Polar White.

Volkswagen T-Cross Interior

Inside, the T-Cross Philippines features a two-tone interior theme. The top-of-the-line T-Cross SE variant is equipped with a 9.2-inch infotainment system as well as leather trims for the seats. Standard features in the two variants of the Volkswagen T-Cross include the following: multifunction steering wheel, 12V sockets, USB ports, and four speakers. The top-spec T-Cross SE also comes with a panoramic sunroof. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Tech & Safety

The new Volkswagen T-Cross comes with notable safety features that include the following: electronic stability control, anti-lock braking system, hill hold control, anti-slip regulation, tire pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX, among others. The entry-level T-Cross variant is equipped with dual airbags, while the top-spec SE trim comes with additional airbags such as side, and curtain airbags. Of note, both T-Cross variants come with cruise control, Apple Carplay and Mirror Link, and rear sensors. Only the top-spec T-Cross has a rear camera and an autonomous emergency braking tech. 

Volkswagen T-Cross Platform & Chassis

The Volkswagen T-Cross Philippines is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that puts out 113 hp and 145 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and power is sent to the front wheels.

The Philippine-spec Volkswagen T-Cross is available in five different colors. These include Polar White, Chinchilla Gray, Syringa Violet, Romance Red, and Tribu (Yellow). 

The Volkswagen T-Cross sits in the middle of the pack when compared to its local rivals in terms of engine output. Features-wise, the same is the case, though do note that this Volkswagen model already comes with cruise control, tire pressure monitoring, hill-start assist, and Apple CarPlay as standard. 

Volkswagen T-Cross 2024 Price List

Let's check out the Volkswagen T-Cross 2024 price in the Philippines.

Variants  Price
Volkswagen T-Cross 180 MPI SE AT ₱1,340,000

Volkswagen T-Cross Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Good looks 
  • Roomy 
  • Comfortable 

Cons

  • Not the most powerful example in its class

Volkswagen T-Cross FAQs

1. Does the T-Cross have parking sensors?

No, T-Cross doesn’t have parking sensors.

2. Does the T-Cross have a sunroof?

No, the Volkswagen T-Cross 2024 doesn’t have a sunroof.

3. Does the Volkswagen T-Cross come with an automatic transmission?

The T-Cross 2024 comes with an automatic transmission.

4. What are the Dimensions of the Volkswagen T-Cross?

The dimensions of the Volkswagen T-Cross are 4,218 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,599 mm in height.

5. Is the Volkswagen T-Cross an MPV?

No, the T-Cross is an SUV car.

 

₱ 1,098,000 - ₱ 1,340,000

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Cesar G.B. Miguel

Cesar G.B. Miguel

Author

Cesar Guiderone B. Miguel was born and raised in Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte. He graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in English degree from Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology. He previously worked as a freelance writer for various websites, as a member of the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction Management's training staff, and as a medical sales representative.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goridus.goridus

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