Volkswagen has announced the launch of the T-Cross First Edition – the initial iteration of the brand’s practical new compact SUV.

This exclusive First Edition model is reserved for the first 250 UK customers of VW’s newest model, and appears ahead of the full T-Cross range opening for order in March.

The T-Cross First Edition gets a suite of equipment upgrades including a Beats sound system with 300-watt output and an extra subwoofer, Discover Media satellite navigation and LED headlights.

Each of the exclusive 250 First Edition models will be finished in Pure White with silver roof rails and unique black styling throughout, with 18-inch ‘Funchal’ Adamantium alloy wheels. An exclusive decal on the car’s C-pillar further marks out the First Edition.

All T-Cross First Edition models are powered by VW’s frugal 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine with 115 PS, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, and two-wheel drive. As with the regular T-Cross a high level of safety technology is included, with Front Assist including autonomous emergency braking, blind spot sensors, adaptive cruise control and Lane Assist all featured as standard.

Practicality is high on the newcomer’s list of talents with sliding rear seats fitted as standard, allowing an additional 70 litres of storage capacity, or up to 140 mm of extra rear leg room.

The T-Cross First Edition, at £23,150, represents a value-packed launch of the new T-Cross in the UK, with an extensive standard-fit equipment list applied to all 250 examples.

Volkswagen Retailers will be accepting orders for the new model from this week, with the first cars of the 250-vehicle run arriving on UK roads in April.

T-Cross Product Manager, Claire Haynes, said: “The T-Cross is an exciting new addition to the growing Volkswagen SUV range, and there’s no better way to introduce it to the UK than offering something even more special to early customers.

“These first 250 cars represent everything the exceptional T-Cross stands for – practicality, usability, comfort, and of course, fun.”