Volkswagen will present the smallest member of its
SUV range, VW T-Cross, in the autumn of 2018.
The VW T-Cross for global markets including Europe,
South America, and China is based on the MQB A0 architecture that underpins the
Mk6 VW Polo as well. The Euro-spec model is 4.10 m long and features a sliding
rear seat. It will have two petrol engine options - 1.0 L TSI petrol in 95 hp
and 115 hp guises, and 1.5 L TSI with 150 hp. Certain markets will get a 1.6 L
TDI diesel as well.
The VW T-Cross for the India market will be
underpinned by a heavily localised version of the MQB A0 called MQB A0 IN. It
will use a 1.0 L TSI petrol engine, which VW intends to localise. There will be
no diesel variant on offer as the 1.5 L TDI is set to bow out by 2020 following
the implementation of BSVI norms. Volkswagen is likely to lengthen the
wheelbase and adapt the exterior and interior to suit the Indian market better.
The Volkswagen Group has confirmed that it, along
with Skoda, will launch four products in India starting from 2021. The first
one will be a Skoda SUV, followed by the Rapid's successor. Expect VW to bring
mechanical cousins of both products with the T-Cross arriving first, followed
by the new VW Vento. Prices are expected to fall in the INR 10-15 lakhs
(ex-showroom) bracket.
