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VW · Compact SUV · 2019–2026

VW T-Cross 1(C11)

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Engine Overview

The VW T-Cross 1 is available with 2 engine variants — from 95 to 116 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.6L TDI · Diesel· 95 PS
2019 2020
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.0L TSI · Benziner· 95–116 PS Engine Change
2019 2024
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2019 2024
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The VW 1.6L TDI (Diesel, 95 PS) has the DGTD (1.6L TDI) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The VW 1.0L TSI (Benziner, 95–116 PS) comes with 2 different engines: DKRA (2019–2024, Be Careful) und DKRA (2019–2024, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.0L TSI!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!7-speed DSG DQ200: clutch wear and juddering

The dry-clutch DSG DQ200 is prone to premature clutch wear and juddering on pull-away in stop-and-go traffic. Clutch replacement costs €900–2,300. Manual transmission considerably more reliable.

Symptoms: Juddering on pull-away especially uphill or in traffic jams, delayed response on the throttle, jerk when reversing, shuddering at standstill
from 80,000 km
Ad clutchspaket DQ200 T-CrossDoppelclutch 7-Gang DSG T-Crosstransmission fluid DQ200 T-Cross
 High

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 20 weaknesses have been documented for the VW T-Cross 1 (2019–2026) — 10 engine-related and 10 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Other, Brakes, Electronics.

T-Cross (DGTD, 2019–2020) — Be Careful: DPF Clogging (Ibiza KJ Diesel), EGR Valve Coking, EGR Valve Blocked by Soot Deposits. Power: 95 PS.

T-Cross (DKRA, 2019–2024) — Be Careful: Recall: Vacuum Line Check Valve Defective, Camshaft Adjuster — Loose Bolts, Timing Belt Snap, Wet Timing Belt Running in Oil Bath. Power: 95 PS.

T-Cross (DKRA, 2019–2024) — Be Careful: Recall: Vacuum Line Check Valve Defective, Camshaft Adjuster — Loose Bolts, Timing Belt Snap, Wet Timing Belt Running in Oil Bath. Power: 110–116 PS.

What to watch out for with the VW T-Cross? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the VW T-Cross 1 have? +
The VW T-Cross 1 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 10 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used VW T-Cross 1? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: DKRA (1.0L TSI), DGTD (1.6L TDI). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the DKRA (1.0L TSI).
Which VW T-Cross 1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the VW T-Cross 1 — rated: "Not Really". {description} 95 hp and a small three-cylinder have to push a full SUV body — on the motorway the T-Cross runs noticeably out of breath.
Is the VW T-Cross 1 worth buying used? +
The VW T-Cross 1 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the VW T-Cross 1? +
The VW T-Cross 1 is available with engine variants from 95 to 116 hp. Petrol: DKRA (1.0L TSI). Diesel: DGTD (1.6L TDI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee