By Clive Funziwe

If you are going to be late, best you are fashionable, like the T-Cross is, to the compact cross over market. Here to cause trouble for the king of the segment, the Mazda CX-3, the ubiquitous Ford Eco Boost, the reliable Suzuki Vitara, the forgettable Honda HR-V – it is in for a tough fight. All the above cars have a strong following so we were definitively excited to put the T-Cross through its paces.

Driving the T-Cross

It’s off to a starting price of R347,100 for the range which means its competitively priced. Our test unit was the Comfortline derivative and it is powered by a 1.0-ltre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol powerplant. It produces 70kW/175Nm via satisfying to shift, 6-Speed manual. During our time with the T-Cross, we managed a comfortable average of 6.0l/100kms. Worth noting is that the engine does not feel underpowered at any point, from brisk take offs and any overtaking that may be required. Based on the current Polo platform, the T-Cross rides well and feels reassuring on the road.

Inside and outside the T-Cross

Anyone who is familiar with the Polo, can expect the T-Cross to have similar traits with a higher ride height along with a increased headroom. Build quality is good, despite having more plastic materials than we would prefer but still better than some of its competitors. We also welcomed the inclusion of a wireless charger, Park Assist with Rear View Camera and Power fold mirrors and MIB3 composition media with App connect.

One of the coolest things we experienced was the automatic display of the camera when you let the car coast in reverse or forward. It will also show any near by objects as though you have the reverse gear engaged. It is a small but very neat and worthwhile touch to have. Our turquoise-like coated test car is fitted with LED headlights and R-Line 17-inch wheels.

Final thoughts

The T-Cross is a worthy contender, in a category or class where the potential buyer is more than spoiled for choice. In our view, it sits on the higher echelons against its competition and is also assisted by its freshness, or is that fashionably lateness, which is working in its favour.