VW United over new models 27 | 07 | 2020

VOLKSWAGEN HAS LAUNCHED a new trim level for the Polo, T-Cross and T-Roc ranges. Badged ‘United’, the trim — not surprisingly — delivers more equipment and unique visual upgrades at a more competitive price than existing versions. Prices for the United start at £17,350, £20,410, and £23,550 for the Polo, T-Cross and T-Roc respectively. (Related: VW Tiguan gets PHEV and 316bhp R)

Both the United T-Cross and T-Roc are based on the existing SE trims; the Polo United is most closely aligned with the still-available Match version.

All three United models sit on alloy wheels — Polo gets 15in, T-Cross 16in and T-Roc 17in — plus there’s subtle ‘United’ badging on the B-pillar. Inside the cabin, all versions get leather steering wheels and smartphone mirroring featured as standard on SE and Match models. And while the trim inserts and pedals gain a brushed aluminium finish, the most noticeable upgrade is the seats are now trimmed in a blue/grey upholstery. (Related: VW ID.4 unwrapped in China)

All three models also get heated front seats and windscreen washer jets, a warning light to signify when the washer fluid is low, plus voice control for the infotainment system. (Related: Review — VW T-Roc 1.0TSI Design)

There are also individual upgrades to all three models. The Polo gains automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers and a dimming rearview mirror, and most significantly, a navigation system installed within the eight-inch touchscreen. And while the T-Cross (immediately above) adds parking sensors all round, the T-Roc United (main picture) gets puddle lights with United branding. Both the crossovers also get rear privacy glass. (Related: 2020 VW Golf prices and trims)

Powerplants in all three United models are petrol-only. The Polo is available as either 79bhp or 94bhp variants of a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard with both engines, though a seven-speed dual clutch automatic is available as an option on the 94bhp version. The T-Cross also gets the 94bhp petrol unit, though only with the manual ‘box. But there is a 113bhp version of the 1.0-litre turbocharged engine, which buyers can choose to mate with either a standard six-speed manual or seven speed auto. (Related: VW reveals 341-mile range ID.3)

Those opting for the T-Roc United get the choice of the same 113bhp 1.0-litre as found in the T-Cross, plus a 148bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder; the latter is available as a manual or an auto.

Prices, as detailed above start at £17,350, £20,410, and £23,550 for the Polo, T-Cross and T-Roc respectively. Despite the extra kit, the Polo United is just £320 more than the Match. Volkswagen says the United models — in certain trim and engine combinations — offer an extra £1760 of kit for the equivalent outlay.

Related: VW unveils portable EV charging station

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Jim McGill