2021 Volkswagen T-Cross Goes On Sale In PH, Starts At P1.068M

The first global model to reach the Philippines since the Golf GTS and Jetta, the all-new 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross has now arrived in the Philippines. The most affordable German crossover SUV to date aims to usher in a revival of Volkswagen’s presence in the country. Even before you start reading this article, we’re already going to tell you that if you’re not going to give this T-Cross a look, you’re making a huge mistake.

As of 2020, more than 300,000 units have already been sold across 55 countries. Key to its popularity is its distinct styling. Compared to Volkswagen’s generally conservative design, the T-Cross’s youthful styling features more distinct styling elements such as the bold front end, striking side character lines, and a black panel that connects the two taillights.

Two generously-equipped variants of the T-Cross will be sold: S and SE. As standard, the entry-level S gets 16-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails, halogen headlights, and LED taillights. Moving up to the top trim SE gets you a large panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, front foglights, and silver roof rails.

As for the design of those 17-inch alloy wheels, the style that will be offered will be the more conventional silver alloys. The two-tone 17-inch alloys called “Manila” seen in the first batch of press photos (as shown above) will be offered as an accessory.

The interior of the Volkswagen T-Cross is just as youthful as its exterior. Color-matched interior panels come as standard, which should definitely brighten up the ambiance.

Thanks to the T-Cross having a 2,651 mm wheelbase–the longest in its class, there’s no doubt that interior space for both passengers and cargo will be generous.

In terms of interior features, the S variant is equipped as standard with fabric seats, front and rear USB ports, multifunction steering wheel, tire pressure monitoring system, and an 8-inch touch screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and AppConnect (which displays compatible apps into the infotainment screen). On the other hand, the top trim SE gains a larger 9.2-inch touch screen infotainment system also with Apple CarPlay and AppConnect, reverse camera, leather and fabric combination seats, ambient LED lighting, and rear aircon vents.

Under the hood of the Volkswagen T-Cross is a 1.5-liter inline-4 naturally-aspirated gasoline engine that produces 113 hp and 145 Nm of torque. This Euro 6 compliant engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. When we asked whether the Volkswagen T-Cross will be offered with a small-displacement turbocharged gasoline engine available in other markets, Volkswagen says that they have no plans to offer the turbo engine as of the moment.

Volkswagen Philippines is also making huge strides in lowering the ownership costs of its vehicle. Apart from its signature once-a-year/10,000-kilometer interval preventive maintenance, spare parts also have a 2-year warranty. In addition, running costs for the T-Cross will be 40 percent lower than competing small SUVs over a period of 5 years. If that’s still not enough for you, the T-Cross also comes with the standard 3-year/100,000-kilometer warranty.

Safety is also paramount for the German automaker, which is why the Volkswagen T-Cross is generously equipped with electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, two airbags, and rear parking sensors. Moving up to the SE variant increases the airbag count to six, along with the addition of automatic emergency braking, which is still a rare advanced driver-assist feature to see in this class of vehicles in our market.

The 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross is destined to go on sale this May 26 at all Volkswagen dealers nationwide. To make this small German SUV even more enticing, Volkswagen is offering a P30,000 pre-launch discount on top of these already highly-competitive prices, which is valid until June 30:

• T-Cross 180 MPI AT S: P1,098,000 (P1,068,000 with pre-launch discount)
• T-Cross 180 MPI AT SE: P1,198,000 (P1,168,000 with pre-launch discount)

Additionally, those who are able to take a photo of the 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross out in the open will get a chance to win gadgets. See the promo mechanics here.