Volkswagen has launched a First Edition model of its new T-Cross compact crossover ahead of the full range opening for order in March.

Order books for the rest of the T-Cross range open in March

Unveiled last autumn in three separate world premieres, the T-Cross sits at the bottom of the VW SUV line-up, under the T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg, and provides a rival to the newly revealed Skoda Kamiq.

The model will play a key role in Volkswagen’s accelerated SUV ambitions; the brand is planning a line-up of 30 models by 2025 and expects them to account for half of its global sales by that point – more than twice their current share. VW is also ramping up for the launch of its first fully-electric SUV, the I.D. Crozz, due from 2020.

The First Edition T-Cross provides a taster of the new compact crossover for the first 250 customers and becomes available to order on 5 February. It’s powered by the 115hp 1.0-litre TSI petrol and brings equipment including a beats sound system with 300-watt output and an extra subwoofer, sat nav and LED headlights. Each of the 250 First Edition models feature Pure White paintwork with silver roof rails and bespoke black styling throughout, along with 18-inch alloy wheels and an exclusive first edition decal on the car’s C-pillar.

It also features sliding rear seats as standard, allowing an additional 70 litres of storage capacity, or up to 140mm of extra rear leg room.

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