BMW X Models vs Volkswagen T-Cross
What's the difference?

BMW X Models

$63,400 - $254,300

2026 price

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Volkswagen T-Cross

$19,990 - $39,990

2024 price

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Summary

2026 BMW X Models

2024 Volkswagen T-Cross

By Chris Thompson

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

0.0L

Turbo 3, 1.0L

Fuel Type

Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

0.0L/100km (combined)

5.6L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Smooth ride, steering acceleration
Premium look and feel
Value for power and range

Lots of features for not much money
Easy and fun to drive
Spacious and practical for the class

Dislikes

Huge battery should mean more range
Lack of physical controls
No cover on sunroof

A hybrid version is needed
Some rivals start at a lower price
Some turbo lag in stop-start traffic

2026 BMW X Models Summary

When the BMW iX first showed up a few years ago, it was a promising look at what BMW seemed capable of when it comes to electric cars.

While mildly flawed, the iX was fast, comfortable and felt properly premium. Now it’s had a decent update, with the iX xDrive45 M Sport here to replace the former entry-level xDrive 40.

BMW claims among other mechanical and tech updates a power increase of 25 per cent, a 30 per cent greater energy content for the battery, a 38 per cent increase in driving range and a 17 per cent faster charging rate.

But in the time since the iX launched, there have been big strides in the premium electric SUV space, including new arrivals from European opposition like the Polestar 3; even a new American in the form of the Cadillac Lyriq.

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2024 Volkswagen T-Cross Summary

The Volkswagen T-Cross is the smallest SUV in the brand’s entire range, but it’s incredibly practical, great to drive and has an excellent level of safety.

It’s just been updated with some new features and it’s probably more affordable than you think.

So if you are thinking of a Mazda CX-3 or a Toyota Yaris Cross, then put the T-Cross on your list to check out, too.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BMW X Models 2024 Volkswagen T-Cross

Verdict

If anyone was worried that it would be too late to get a decent bit of value out of an entry-level iX, there's reassuring news.

With more power, range and features added to the model and the cost remaining close to its former sticker price, the iX has held up well despite now existing in a more competitive environment.

Verdict

There are so many new little SUVs out there and it might be easy to think they’re all the same - a tiny cheap SUV is just a tiny cheap SUV. But I’m convinced the Volkswagen T-Cross isn’t like the others.

Yes, it’s tiny and relatively cheap, but it can do more than most of the others from the storage and space it offers to the value-for-money and its level of refinement. Then there’s the way it drives - which can’t in my books be matched by any of its rivals.

The sweet spot in the range is the entry grade Life. At $35K drive-away the value is best and with no difference in engines between the grades there are no huge reasons to step up higher in the range unless you have the money.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

BMW X Models vs Volkswagen T-Cross What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW X Models vs Volkswagen T-Cross
What's the difference?