Volkswagen T-Cross Towing Capacity: The Complete 2025 UK Guide

Understanding the Volkswagen T-Cross Towing Capacity

We have analysed every engine, model year, and drivetrain configuration of the Volkswagen T-Cross to deliver the most comprehensive towing-capacity guide available online. Whether you’re planning to tow a small trailer, a lightweight caravan, or bikes for a weekend getaway, the T-Cross offers a respectable and efficient towing setup when paired with the right engine and hitch rating.

This guide covers braked towing limits, unbraked limits, nose weight, GVW, GCM, engine-by-engine tow ratings, plus real-world towing advice.

Official Volkswagen T-Cross Towing Capacity (All Engines)

The Volkswagen T-Cross offers a maximum braked towing capacity of up to 1100kg, depending on engine and model year. This figure applies to the strongest variants in the lineup. Unbraked towing remains capped at 750kg across all versions, as per manufacturer regulations.

At-a-Glance T-Cross Tow Limits

Braked vs Unbraked Towing in the T-Cross

Braked Towing Capacity

When the trailer has its own braking system, the T-Cross can tow up to 1100kg depending on engine. This is ideal for:

• Small caravans
• Camping trailers
• Lightweight utility trailers
• Bike trailers
• Small boats

Unbraked Towing Capacity

Unbraked trailers are limited to 750kg, which covers:

• Small garden trailers
• Lightweight utility trailers
• Small leisure trailers

Volkswagen T-Cross Towing Capacity by Model Year

2019–2020 T-Cross

The launch-year T-Cross came with two 1.0 TSI options:

• 1.0 TSI 95PS – up to 1000kg braked
• 1.0 TSI 115PS (later 110PS) – 1100kg braked

Unbraked capacity remained at 750kg.

2021–2023 T-Cross

Updated DSG and minor chassis improvements kept the towing numbers steady:

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• 1.0 TSI 110PS (MT/DSG) – 1100kg
• 1.5 TSI 150PS – 1100kg

2024–2025 Facelift T-Cross

With enhanced driver-assistance technology and aerodynamic tweaks, towing remains consistent:

• 1.0 TSI 115PS/110PS – 1100kg
• 1.5 TSI EVO – 1100kg

Volkswagen T-Cross Nose Weight (Tow Ball Download Rating)

The maximum permissible tow-ball nose weight typically sits between:

• 50kg and 75kg depending on model and towbar setup.

A heavier nose weight improves trailer stability but must not exceed the VW-approved specification.

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and Combined Mass (GCM)

Understanding weight limits helps avoid overloading.

Typical Figures for the T-Cross

• GVW: 1740–1840kg
• GCM: Approximately 2840–2940kg depending on engine

This means you must factor in:

• Vehicle weight
• Passengers
• Cargo
• Trailer weight
• Nose weight allocation

Real-World Towing Performance

1.0 TSI 95PS

• Best for light loads
• Suitable for very small trailers
• Towing performance drops on steep gradients

1.0 TSI 110PS

• Smooth torque delivery
• Works well with small caravans
• DSG version better for stability

1.5 TSI 150PS

• Strongest performer
• Best for long motorway towing
• Handles 1100kg loads with confidence

Diesel 1.6 TDI (limited markets)

• Excellent low-end torque
• Best fuel economy when towing
• Not sold in UK but found in EU markets

Caravan Towing With the T-Cross

The T-Cross suits:

• Micro caravans
• Pop-top caravans
• Lightweight 2-berth caravans
• Folding campers

Safe Match Rule

Your caravan’s MTPLM should ideally be below 85% of the T-Cross’s kerbweight.
For example:

• T-Cross kerbweight approx.: 1250kg–1340kg
• 85% match ≈ 1060kg–1135kg

This makes the 1100kg limit perfectly aligned for beginners.

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Recommended Towbar Types

Fixed Towbar

• Affordable
• Always ready to use
• Slightly affects parking sensors

Detachable Towbar

• Cleaner look
• Protects reversing sensors
• Ideal for occasional towing

Retractable Towbar

• Premium solution
• Hidden when locked away
• Often dealer-fit only

Trailer Wiring Kits for the T-Cross

To ensure stability control and safety systems work while towing, fit:

• 13-pin dedicated wiring loom
• Activates trailer sway control
• Integrates with vehicle sensors

Avoid universal kits that may not support VW safety systems.

Real-World Fuel Consumption When Towing

Typical MPG When Towing:

• 1.0 TSI: 24–33 MPG
• 1.5 TSI: 27–36 MPG
• 1.6 TDI: 38–50 MPG

Actual MPG depends on:

• Load weight
• Road inclines
• Speed
• Weather conditions

Safety Tips Before Towing

• Confirm tyre pressures (including the trailer).
• Check towbar torque settings.
• Ensure trailer lights function correctly.
• Load heavier items low and forward.
• Maintain the nose weight within VW limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Volkswagen T-Cross tow a caravan?

Yes—lightweight caravans up to 1100kg MTPLM are suitable.

Does every T-Cross have the same towing capacity?

No. The 95PS versions tow less than the 110PS and 150PS variants.

Do I need trailer brakes for heavier towing?

Anything over 750kg requires a braked trailer by law.

Is the DSG gearbox good for towing?

Yes, especially for maintaining smooth, stable acceleration.

What is the best engine for towing?

The 1.5 TSI 150PS is the strongest and most stable option.

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