Volkswagen T-Cross vs. Volkswagen T-Roc: which is better?

Not sure whether to buy the Volkswagen T-Cross or T-Roc? Read our comparison guide to see which is better for you in 2024

Update as of August 2024: this is a comparison review between the pre-facelift Volkswagen T-Cross and T-Roc. Watch our facelifted VW T-Cross review to find out more about the 2024 model.

T-Cross vs. T-Roc

The small SUV category is always growing, and it’s at the point where brands are fighting for the top spot.

But if you’re after a used Volkswagen and have the choice of two of the best crossover SUVs, how do you decide which is the better one for you?

While VW wouldn’t compare the T-Cross and T-Roc because it’s like comparing children, we can, so we’ve run them both through a series of category tests to help you decide which is better for you.

Take a look at our T-Cross vs. T-Roc review.

Our guide will answer:

Is the T-Roc or T-Cross better to drive?
Does the T-Cross or T-Roc have better tech?
Which VW SUV has the better styling?
Is the T-Roc or T-Cross more reliable?
What are the T-Cross vs. T-Roc dimensions?

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: styling

on the left is a blue vw t-cross driving on a road and on the right is a T-roc driving on a mountain road

Because both these cars are made by the same company, they follow similar design cues.

VW has managed to make them so that they're approachable yet sleek, which is just how small SUVs should look.

The larger T-Roc looks predictably like a Golf on stilts which is no bad thing because that's one handsome car.

Likewise, the T-Cross borrows its looks from the Polo but with a grown-up feel and overall look.

Both models are sleek and stylish, effortlessly blending into the SUV trend. On the school run or work commute, these won't look too rugged or outdoorsy like some SUV options.

At the end of the day, looks are subjective but we think they both look excellent as small SUVs go.

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: what are they like to drive?

on the left is a light blue vw t-cross driving into an underground carpark and on the right is a vw t-roc driving on a mountain road

When you get behind the wheel of either model, you instantly know you’re in a Volkswagen.

The smaller T-Cross is based on the VW Polo whereas the T-Roc is based on the larger VW Golf hatchback, meaning they offer similar driving experiences, but one feels slightly more refined.

Both start with a small 1.0-litre petrol engine, but other options are available, including a larger and more economical diesel.

With the T-Roc being the larger of the two, it offers slightly more powerful engines, which may be a deciding factor for you.

When it comes to handling, both are very much like the hatchbacks on which they’re based, with the T-Roc offering a more supple suspension setup that may be favourable if you’re after a softer ride, but the T-Cross will feel sportier.

But if none of this really matters that much to you, and instead you like a convertible summer experience, the T-Roc Cabriolet may be the one for you.

Not only can you feel the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, but you also get high levels of practicality and comfort.

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: interior and technology

on the left is a vw t-cross orange and black interior and on the right is a black vw t-roc interior

Inside, both offer similar interiors to the cars they’re based on, which gives you comfortable seats and lots of tech including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

As an added bonus, some T-Cross models get a wireless charging pad, but not all get this optional extra feature.

These may not be the largest of cars, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be spacious. The T-Roc has a higher roofline, so fitting taller people in the front or back shouldn’t be an issue.

As for the T-Cross, this has a sliding rear bench, which means you can create more rear legroom or increase the boot size.

Best car tech

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: bootspace and practicality

on the left is a vw t-cross rear seats and on the left is a t-roc open boot

As you move to the rear of the car, you get to the part that matters the most for your family or leisure activities.

Whether you have active kids or just do large weekly food shops, both cars would be a great option for you.

The T-Cross gets a 385-litre boot that grows to 1,281 litres when the rear seats are folded flat, while the T-Roc has a slightly larger 445-litre boot that expands to 1,290 litres.

Both cars can seat up to five people, but like with most small SUVs, we’d always recommend sticking to a maximum of four for longer journeys to maximise comfort.

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: safety and reliability

on the left is a t-cross engine bay and on the right is a t-roc's

In terms of safety, both cars scored a full five-star rating following their most recent Euro NCAP crash testing, with high adult and child occupant protection.

They’re also very reliable because they share so many parts with other VW Group cars, such as the Polo, Golf and SEAT Ibiza.

This means they all feature tried-and-tested engines and vital components to ensure little goes wrong.

However, if something were to go wrong, you’d be able to get it sorted easily due to parts being readily available and warranties being reasonable.

T-Cross vs. T-Roc: dimensions