Volkswagen T-Cross Breeze Is A New CUV Disguised As A Convertible

Volkswagen's press info says it all: "The T-Cross Breeze concept car offers a first look at a newly developed SUV model series. ... In future, the Tiguan and Touareg will be joined by three more SUV models." Furthermore, the company's head of design, Klaus Bischoff, says the concept "is a teaser for the most compact sport utility vehicle that Volkswagen plans to make." While the T-Roc concept from last year's Frankfurt Motor Show previews a crossover in the Golf size range, the T-Cross Breeze is even smaller – think Polo.

Power comes from a turbocharged, 1.0-liter inline three-cylinder engine, with 109 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission sends that power to the front wheels only, and Volkswagen estimates the 2,756-pound T-Cross Breeze can sprint to 100 km/hr in 10.3 seconds, with a top speed of 188 km/h. It's not quick, but it should be efficient. Volkswagen says the T-Cross should achieve around 5 L/100km, though we assume that's on the new European testing cycle.

Inside, Volkswagen's focus is on eliminating buttons and creating a user interface that relies on touch-sensitive surfaces and gesture controls. The concept uses a two-door, four-seat layout, but we assume a four-door, five-seat version will make the most sense when the final version arrives.

Could a convertible version of the T-Cross actually see production? Bischoff says the concept "reflects the new start for our brand," and calls it, "the nucleus of a new SUV and convertible design in the compact sector." All we know is: Don't get too hung up on the droptop aspect. This T-Cross Breeze has the building blocks of a neat little CUV for the entry-level end of the VW range.