Currently reading: Volkswagen T-Cross Breeze unveiled at Geneva motor show
New open-top concept previews entry-level SUV that could rival the Range Rover Evoque convertible

Volkswagen has revealed its plans for a new entry-level SUV with the unveiling of the smartly styled T-Cross Breeze at the Geneva motor show.

Set to head into production as a more traditional five-door fixed roof model, the new 4133mm long SUV is one of three high riding Volkswagen models confirmed for launch within the next two years as the German car maker seeks to diversify its traditional line-up and extend its reach into new market segments

Joining the T-Cross in the expanded line-up of Volkswagen SUVs will be production versions of the earlier 4177mm long T-Roc and 4987mm long CrossBlue concepts. They are planned to complement the recently unveiled second-generation Tiguan and upcoming third-generation Touareg in a five strong range of dedicated SUV models. 

Volkswagen calls the T-Cross Breeze a melding of the SUV and convertible worlds. Styled under Volkswagen brand design boss, Klaus Bischoff, it shares a number of key exterior styling elements with the two-year-old T-Roc, including its full-width grille, taut body surfacing, structured flanks and large wheel houses, in a bid to provide the two new SUV models with a common design lineage in much the same way as the existing Polo and Golf hatchbacks exist alongside each other.

Despite the common look, Volkswagen has provided the T-Cross with a number of distinctive styling flourishes, including large LED daytime running lamps mounted within the front bumper as well as more structure flanks with a more distinct swage line than the T-Roc. In a move that hints at a rival to the new Range Rover Evoque cabriolet, the latest concept also features an open top design.

“The T-Cross Breeze reflects the new start of our brand. We want to stir enthusiasm with a design that is equally crisp and expressive. We have pulled out all the stops and put what is surely one of the most exciting 4m SUVs of the modern day on its wheels”, says Bischoff.

At 4133mm in length, 1798mm in width and 1563mm in height, the T-Cross is 46mm shorter, 33mm narrower and 62mm higher than the earlier T-Roc – dimensions Volkswagen says will be mirrored on the production version, due in 2018.

As well as previewing its new entry level SUV, the T-Cross also provides clues to a new look interior Volkswagen is considering for future models featuring touch and pressure sensitive surfaces, a range of new connectivity functions and a 300 Watt Beat Audio sound system.

The new Volkswagen, which shares its MQB based underpinnings with the sixth-generation Polo, is set to face stiff competition from the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Vauxhall Mokka in what is shaping up as one of most hotly contested segments 

Relying on a combination of aluminium and hot formed high strength steel, the MQB platform helps provides the new price leading SUV with a claimed kerb weight of 1250kg.

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Power for the latest Volkswagen concept is provided by its new turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine – just one of a number of three- and four-cylinder units planned to be offered with the new junior crossover. With 110bhp and 129lb ft of torque on tap at 1500rpm, the compact direct injection unit channels drive to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual shift double clutch gearbox.

Performance and economy simulations suggest the T-Cross Breeze hits 62mph from standstill in 10.3sec and reaches a top speed of 117mph, while delivering combination combined cycle consumption of 56.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 115g/km.

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Andrew Lee 5 March 2016

Shameful

It looks like one of those Chinese copies of an Evoque. It's one thing to compete with a rival's model but not by just watering it down. A cynical 'new start of our brand' instead of admitting responsibility for Dieselgate and dealing fully with its consequences eg compensating UK VW owners.
pauld101 1 March 2016

Yeah right....

VW group, all in a panic, lashes up 'spoiler' as Evoque is launched... Desperation, as VW's market share plummets further. Can you smell something very unpleasant? Oh, yes, it's a Volkswagen.
bomb 1 March 2016

It's March 1st, not April 1st

It's March 1st, not April 1st.