AT THE CROSS ROADS

The T-Cross shapes up as a rival to the likes of Hyundai’s Venue, Mitsubishi’s

ASX and Mazda’s CX-3.

It is priced from $29,990 drive-away in entry-level “Life” form and standard kit includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and a basic safety suite with auto emergency braking and lane keeping assistance. An 8-inch central touchscreen has wireless phone charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but no satnav.

Spend $32,990 drive-away and the “Style” adds 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, smart keys, active cruise control, blind spot monitoring and dual-zone climate control. Life customers can add the extra safety kit for $1200, while both variants offer a tech pack with digital dash, Beats stereo and upgraded infotainment system for $1900. Metallic paint is $600 or $800 depending on your choice of tone and Style customers can choose an R-Line bodykit with bigger wheels for $2500.

Both models are powered by the same 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine found in the Polo. Turbocharged to make 85kW and 200Nm, the T-Cross has more low-down punch than most cars this size. It also returns a frugal 5.4L/100km.

It’s a modern driveline with effortless real-world punch compared to non-turbo alternatives that must rev hard to deliver.

As with many cars in this class, the TCross’ lofty suspension isn’t as plush as its low-riding cousin. It feels a touch busy on bumpy roads and floaty at speed. It has a roomy cabin with space for full-sized adults in the back — something that can’t be said of many competitors.

There are twin USB points in the rear, and the back seat slides fore and aft to prioritise leg room or cargo space as required. The boot varies between 385 and 455 litres, making it among the biggest in this class.