BY Sipho ‘Alphi’ Mkhwanazi
In the dynamic landscape of compact SUVs, the Volkswagen T-Cross has carved out a niche with its blend of practicality, comfort, and German engineering. I will never forget the day the T-Cross landed in South Africa around September 2019.
The second I saw the first advert, I knew I had to own one. A few weeks later, I drove home with a stunning metallic blue version (named him Makabongwe), and it’s been happy memories since. Having owned the 2019 model for several years, the opportunity to test the latest 2024 R-Line variant presents an exciting chance to witness the evolution firsthand.
The 2019 VW T-Cross introduced a fresh, youthful design to the segment, characterised by its compact dimensions and distinctive front grille. It exuded a sense of modernity with its sharp lines and compact proportions, making it ideal for urban environments.
Fast forward to 2024, and the R-Line package elevates the T-Cross with sportier accents: larger alloy wheels, a more aggressive front bumper design, and subtle R-Line badging that enhances its athletic stance without compromising its practical appeal.
Step inside the 2019 T-Cross—let’s call it Makabongwe—and you are greeted by a thoughtfully designed interior that maximises space efficiently.
The cabin was ergonomic, with intuitive controls and ample storage options, ideal for daily commutes or longer journeys. Almost five years later, I am sitting at just over 160,000 km on the clock, and I have never had an issue to date. The seating is still comfortable, if somewhat utilitarian in its approach, focusing on functionality over luxury.
In contrast, the 2024 R-Line variant takes interior refinement to the next level. The quality of materials has noticeably improved, with soft-touch surfaces and premium upholstery options. The driver-focused cockpit now integrates VW’s latest digital interface, offering a seamless blend of infotainment and vehicle control.
Enhanced ambient lighting and upgraded sound insulation contribute to a quieter, more refined driving experience. VW has definitely perfected the ideology of not reinventing the wheel but just improving its functionality and appearance.
Makabongwe is competent in city driving and light off-road excursions, thanks to its responsive turbocharged engine and nimble handling. It strikes a balance between efficiency and agility, appealing to drivers seeking versatility without sacrificing fuel economy.
If you are an xplorer like myself, it’s absolutely perfect for almost any destination, as it is fuel-efficient and can handle nearly any terrain.
Technological advancements have been a hallmark of the T-Cross, and the 2024 R-Line model continues this trend with an array of cutting-edge features. The latest iteration boasts an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, wireless smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
These additions not only enhance convenience but also elevate safety standards, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. I really enjoy the seamless transition from Makabongwe to the newer version; everything remains the same, but it looks and performs so much better.
The Volkswagen T-Cross has evolved significantly from its 2019 debut to the 2024 R-Line iteration. While the 2019 model established its practicality and modern design, the 2024 R-Line variant refines this formula with sportier aesthetics, enhanced performance, and a technologically advanced interior.
Whether you prioritize style, comfort, or driving dynamics, the latest T-Cross delivers a compelling package that meets the demands of modern drivers without compromising its inherent versatility. As a motoring journalist and owner, I can confidently say that Volkswagen has once again raised the bar with the 2024 T-Cross R-Line, setting a new benchmark in the competitive compact SUV segment.
