Volkswagen South Africa is preparing to introduce a new entry-level version of its popular T-Cross, offered in Comfortline specification with a peak power output of 70 kW.

As its name suggests, the T-Cross 1,0 TSI 70 kW Comfortline employs the Wolfsburg-based firm’s turbocharged 1,0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, but here it’s been detuned somewhat to deliver 70 kW and 175 N.m to the front axle via a five-speed manual (rather than seven-speed dual-clutch) gearbox.

As a result, the obligatory sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes a claimed 11,5 seconds, with the crossover topping out at 180 km/h. VW claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 5,0 L/100 km.

So, how much will it cost? Well, thanks to our studious friends over at duoporta.com, we know the new base model will be priced at R342 300, slotting in below the 1,0 TSI 85 kW Comfortline DSG (now R381 900), 1,0 TSI 85 kW Highline DSG (R416 100) and 1,5 TSI 110 kW R-Line DSG (R437 600).

Since it will arrive in Comfortline trim, we can expect the new derivative to ship standard with items such as 16-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails, front foglamps, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, parking sensors (fore and aft) and cruise control.

Of course, VW SA had earlier planned to bring in a base Trendline version with the same powertrain (to push the starting price “below R300 000”) but the company backtracked in August 2020. This Trendline model was to be aimed at the rental fleet market but with sales in this part of the industry down thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdown, it’s no longer coming.

At the local launch of the T-Cross in September 2019, the line-up had comprised a Comfortline and Highline variant (with the option of an R-Line package), each powered by an 85 kW/200 N.m 1,0 TSI engine mated to the front axle via a seven-speed DSG. The flagship 1,5 TSI R-Line model later joined the range, boasting 110 kW and 250 N.m.

Original article from Car