The Volkswagen T-Cross line-up has been expanded once again with the addition of the acclaimed 1.5-litre TSI 150PS petrol engine being added to the compact SUV’s range.

It is the second time the versatile T-Cross has delighted even more customers with a new engine in less than a year on UK roads. In 2019 a frugal 1.6-litre 95PS diesel joined the line-up, in addition to the 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI units offering 95PS and 115PS at launch.

With the more powerful, four-cylinder 1.5-litre turbocharged engine installed, this variant is the swiftest T-Cross available, taking 8.5 seconds to sprint to 62 mph from standstill, before going on to a top speed of 124 mph where permitted. Despite the nippier performance, economy is still among the T-Cross’s top talents, returning 44.0mpg on the combined WLTP cycle while emitting 118-119g/km of CO2 (NEDC), depending on specification.

This new engine will be offered on the SEL and R-Line trims, and will be available exclusively with a 7-speed DSG transmission, bringing the number of engine and gearbox configurations for the T-Cross up to a total of six. As part of Volkswagen’s five-strong SUV range, the T-Cross joins an ever-expanding family, with the soon-to-launch T-Roc Cabriolet, new T-Roc R performance SUV and recently extended Touareg line-up ensuring there is Volkswagen SUV to suit all needs.

The 1.5-litre T-Cross starts at £24,910 in SEL specification, or from £26,810 for sportier R-Line trim. Both variants get front and rear parking sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist, LED headlights and an 8.0-inch Discover Navigation infotainment system as standard, as well as two USB ports in the rear of the car.

The R-Line trim adds sportier exterior styling, 18-inch ‘Nevada’ alloy wheels and a 10.25-inch Active Info Display for the driver. The T-Cross’s signature sliding rear bench also features on both trims, maximising versatility by giving the choice between an extra 14cm of leg room for rear passengers, or an additional 70 litres of luggage volume.

Claire Haynes, T-Cross product manager at Volkswagen UK, said: “At Volkswagen, we are committed to making sure we live up to our People’s Car name by making a car for everyone. The T-Cross is no different, and those who would like an even more potent engine can now be catered for.”