Volkswagen introduces new Active trim level

• New trim level brings more kit at a reduced price
• All models to feature model-specific alloy wheel design 
• Sits above existing Match, SE, Design or Life trims

Volkswagen has introduced an Active trim level that sits above the familiar Match, SE, Design and Life trims across various models in its lineup. It brings more standard equipment and styling upgrades to the Polo, T-Cross, T-Roc, T-Roc Cabriolet, Golf and Tiguan. 

Volkswagen Tiguan review (2016-2024)

All Active models are available with a variety of engine and gearbox combinations across the six models and will sit on ‘Galway’ alloy wheels that vary in size from 15 to 18 inches, depending on the model. They also feature specific ‘Active’ badging and upholstery, plus a logo light projection from beneath the door mirrors on the majority of models.

The key appeal of the new Active trim is the fact it effectively bundles optional extras into an affordable upgrade. The Active model of the Polo supermini, for example, gains a number of upgrades over the Match specification which, if specified as options, would add £1,665 to the car’s price tag. However, they come packaged together in the Active trim for only £700, with prices starting from £18,100. Extra kit includes a larger touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a winter pack, climate control and carpet mats. 

This cost-saving theme continues across the other models. The T-Cross Active has an enhanced specification over the SE trim with equipment worth £2,065, yet the overall price is only £500 more, at £21,035. The T-Roc Active is also positioned above the SE trim, with an additional equipment value of £2,160, but it only costs £300 extra. The T-Roc Cabriolet Active, meanwhile, gains a number of specification upgrades over the Design trim worth £975, yet buyers only need to pay an extra £200. 

The T-Cross Active has Discover navigation, heated seats, parking sensors, privacy glass and electric folding door mirrors. The Active version of the T-Roc is £24,035 and gets front fog lights, privacy glass and an electrically operated tailgate, while the T-Roc Cabriolet gains keyless entry and costs £28,060.

The Volkswagen Golf also benefits from the new Active trim level. Positioned above the Life trim, it gets equipment worth £1,495 as individual options but buyers will only have to pay £500 more than for a Life model, with prices starting from £23,860. It gains a selection of extras including heated front seats, climate control, 30-colour ambient lighting and front and rear carpet mats. 

The most expensive model to benefit from the new Active trim is the Tiguan SUV. It gains specification upgrades over the existing Life trim, offering additional equipment value of £1,730 for only £500 extra. Prices start from £27,860 and highlights include a winter pack (including heated front seats and heated steering wheel), keyless entry, including the addition of an electric tailgate, electric folding door mirrors and ambient lighting.

Check out our latest review of the Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback.