Buying Used: Volkswagen T-Cross (2019

Buying Used: Volkswagen T-Cross (2019–2024)

December 15, 2025

The Volkswagen T-Cross made a big impression upon its 2019 arrival. Six years later, is the pre-facelift model still good enough as a used buy?

Image: CAR

The Volkswagen T-Cross launched in South Africa in 2019 and immediately became a dominant force in the compact-SUV segment. This pre-facelift model, which defined the market until the refreshed version arrived in 2024, was a carefully calibrated product, successfully bridging the gap between the compact Polo hatchback and the larger T-Roc and Tiguan models. It is built on the popular and reliable MQB A0 platform. The crossover’s success was underpinned by VW’s brand appeal, a suite of efficient turbocharged engines, and a youth-focused aesthetic. The T-Cross was not just another vehicle; it was a statement that offered German build quality and technology in a right-sized package.

Related: 2025 Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Style DSG Road Test

A Rundown on the Volkswagen T-Cross

The pre-facelifted VW T-Cross lineup in South Africa was built around two primary turbocharged petrol engines, both belonging to the fuel-efficient TSI family. The core of the range was the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine, offered in two output levels: 70 kW/175 N.m and 85 kW200 N.m. The less powerful unit was exclusively paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. Performance was modest and the claimed combined fuel consumption figure stood at 5.9 L/100 km. The most popular option was the higher-output 1.0 TSI. This engine was paired with a smooth and quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), which aided the crossover in achieving its impressive combined fuel consumption of 5.6 L/100 km.

For a period, Volkswagen also offered a halo model, the 1.5 TSI 110 kW R-Line. This model featured a four-cylinder engine that generated a punchy 110 kW and 250 N.m of torque, and was mated with a seven-speed DSG. This was the performance champion of the range, capable of reaching 100 km/h in under 9.0 seconds (claimed) and topping out at 200 km/h, though it was subsequently phased out before the facelifted model arrived.

In our 2020 review of the Volkswagen T-Cross 85 kW Highline DSG, we noted:

“When it comes to the overall driving experience, there’s little to complain about with the T-Cross. The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbopetrol engine has already proved itself a capable performer in both the Polo and Golf, and it continues to impress here. The engine’s segment-typical 85 kW is backed up by a hearty 200 N.m of torque, making it feel nippy in town and well within its depth on the motorway. The (T-Cross) is an altogether more balanced and wieldy demeanour (than the Polo). Mechanical refinement is especially impressive; the engine proving smooth and quiet at speed with just a hint of three-pot warble when leaning on the accelerator. This peaceful powerplant does mean road and wind noise are noticeable on the motorway.”

Image: CAR

In terms of the cabin, the luggage compartment offers between 377-455 litres of packing space, expanding to 1 281 litres when the rear seats are folded flat. Trim levels included Comfortline and Highline, with the sporty R-Line package often applied to the higher-spec models, which included 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels and a distinctive body kit. Depending on which trim you chose, optional extras included R-Line exterior with 17-inch ‘Manila’ alloy wheels, a Beats sound system, inductive wireless mobile charging, Composition Media with App-Connect, Discover Media (includes navigation), active info display, park assist with rear-view camera, foldable mirrors, adaptive cruise control (includes blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist), LED headlamps, keyless entry and a removable towbar.

What to Look Out For When Buying a Used Volkswagen T-Cross

DSG transmission: Judder/hesitation often indicates worn clutch packs or a need for a software update to the transmission control module.
Infotainment System Glitches: Check for common “software gremlins”. This can manifest as an unresponsive touchscreen, random reboots, or intermittent failure of Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). This is often solved by a software update.
Turbo Actuator Failure (1.0 TSI): This fault is more commonly reported on earlier models (2019-2020) and causes a sudden reduction in power and illumination of the check engine light. It is caused by a faulty wastegate actuator on the turbocharger.
Suspension Noise: Clunking or knocking sounds from the front axle when driving over speed bumps or potholes are usually symptomatic of worn anti-roll bar links or degraded suspension bushings.

Which One to Get?

For the optimal balance of performance, efficiency, and driving convenience, the 1.0 TSI 85 kW DSG variant – in either Comfortline or Highline trim – is the recommended choice for a used purchase. The combination of the 85 kW engine and the seven-speed DSG gearbox is superior to the entry-level 70 kW manual. The 200 N.m of torque delivered smoothly through the dual-clutch ‘box makes the car far more comfortable and responsive in daily traffic and for overtaking on the motorway, despite the small engine capacity. When searching for a used model, focus on one that includes popular optional extras which will significantly enhance the experience.