Volkswagen T-Cross and T-Roc Compact SUVs – What’s the difference

Indians are buying compact SUVs by the truck load and almost every automaker operating here either offers one or is in the process of offering one. Volkswagen is from the latter camp, and is expected to introduce one or two SUVs in the compact segment. Both the T-Cross and T-Roc compact SUVs could make it to Indian shores in the future. So, it’s always good to know what they’re all about.

First, the differences

The T-Cross is likely to be a sub-4 meter compact SUV, rivaling the likes of the Maruti Vitara Brezza and the Ford Ecosport. On the other hand, the T-Roc will be slightly longer, targeting the Hyundai Creta/Renault Duster. In keeping with this difference in length, the T-Cross is expected to be priced lower, slotting a segment below the T-Roc.

However, it’s the T-Roc that’ll be launched first in markets internationally, what with the compact SUV making its European debut by the end of this year. The T-Cross will arrive a year later. Engines on the T-Cross will be smaller than that of the T-Roc.

Now, for the similarities

Both compact SUVs are crossovers and will use monocoque bodies. They’ll sit on the Volkswagen MQB platform, and will predominantly be front wheel driven. All-wheel drive layouts could be offered in specific markets. Both SUVs look suitable for the Indian car market, with the smaller one rivaling the Brezza-EcoSport and the other rivaling the Creta-Duster.

However, Volkswagen India has not confirmed either SUVs just as yet. Both vehicles will dimensionally be smaller than Volkswagen’s largest hatchback – the Golf Mk VII. They’ll be close to the MQB Polo in terms of footprint, but will be taller and wider to justify their SUV tags.

Volkswagen India is mulling the introduction of smaller cars based on the MQB platform here. This program, if greenlighted, will allow the German automaker to launch the likes of the new Polo, and these compact SUVs here.