Volkswagen T-Cross 2020 review: 85TSI Style snapshot

Topping the initial range of VW T-Cross models is the 85TSI Style, which is priced from $30,990 plus on-road costs.

It is powered by the same engine as the model that sits below it, the 85TSI Life - which is to say that under the bonnet hides a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, producing 85kW of power and 200Nm of torque. It is exclusively available with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and is only available in two-wheel drive (FWD). Fuel consumption is claimed at 5.4L/100km.

It competes in a busy part of the small SUV market, against the likes of the Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi ASX and Toyota C-HR. 

Explore the 2020 Volkswagen T-Cross range

• Volkswagen T-Cross 2020 review
• Volkswagen T-Cross 2020 review: 85TSI Life snapshot
• Volkswagen T-Cross 2020 review: 85TSI Style snapshot
• Volkswagen T-Cross 2020 review: Life
• Volkswagen T-Cross 2021 review: Style

But it’s a pretty good value offering, the T-Cross 85TSI Style comes handsomely equipped with gear for the money.

Over and above the 85TSI Life, the 110TSI Style gains 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, front sports seats and chrome exterior highlights.

That’s in addition to the standard LED daytime running lights, front fog lights, automatic headlights, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto wipers, air-conditioning, wireless smartphone charger, four USB ports, leather multi-function steering wheel, and 8.0-inch multimedia system with app-connect (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) functionality.

Plus on the safety front, the 85TSI Style has a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, front and rear low-speed AEB, driver fatigue detection, low-pressure tyre indicator, dual ISOFIX child seat anchor points and six airbags (dual front, front side, full-length curtain). And over the 85TSI Life, it includes standard adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with auto brake, and automatic high beams.

Buyers of the 85TSI Style model can also choose to option the R-Line pack for $2500, which adds 18-inch wheels, R-Line badges and body additions, R-Line scuff plates and steering wheel, and unique upholstery.

There’s also the Sound and Vision pack ($1900) which adds VW’s excellent digital cockpit driver info display, as well as inbuilt sat nav and a Beats 300-watt sound system. 

A four-cylinder petrol version of the T-Cross, the 110TSI Style, will arrive later in 2020, with a big performance upgrade over its three-cylinder compatriot.