Volkswagen T-Roc Model Update
The Volkswagen T-Roc, one of the most popular models in the brand’s lineup, has received a significant update. Eight years after the debut of the first generation, the second generation of the crossover has been introduced with a larger body, updated design, and a completely redesigned interior. For the first time for the Volkswagen Group, a full-fledged hybrid powertrain is also presented alongside updated mild-hybrid variants.
Exterior Appearance and Design
The exterior of the new T-Roc retains the character of the original model but receives modern proportions and a more confident stance. The front end is inspired by Volkswagen’s family of electric models, replacing the traditional radiator grille with a sleeker look featuring a full-width LED light strip and an illuminated logo. Sporty air intakes and subtle underbody protection complement the design.
The profile remains recognizable thanks to the characteristic line flowing into the robust C-pillar, although cleaner surfaces and flared wheel arches give it a fresh look. Buyers can now choose wheels up to 20 inches in diameter, and the raked rear window and wide LED rear lights add a coupe-like appearance. Thanks to the updated body, aerodynamic efficiency has improved by 10 percent, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.29 cd.
Trims and Dimensions
Volkswagen will offer the new T-Roc in base, Life, Style, and R-Line trims. The sportier R-Line features larger air intakes, a rear diffuser, and an optional Black Style package that adds darker accents to the exterior. Six colors are available, including Canary Yellow, Flamed Red, and Celestial Blue, with a contrasting black roof on selected combinations.
Regarding dimensions, the SUV now has a length of 4,373 mm, which is 122 mm more than before. The wheelbase has increased by 28 mm to 2,631 mm, creating slightly more space. This places the T-Roc between the smaller Taigo and T-Cross and the larger Tiguan and Tayron in Volkswagen’s European SUV range.
Interior: More Technology and Improved Quality
Volkswagen claims the interior of the new T-Roc now meets the standards set by the Tiguan and Tayron. The dashboard has been replaced from the hard plastics of its predecessor with fabric, combined with higher-quality materials throughout the cabin and ambient lighting that shines through perforated artificial leather surfaces. Sustainability also plays a role, with about 20 percent of the plastic in the interior obtained from recycled materials.
At the center of the dashboard is a freestanding infotainment screen, available in 10.4 or 12.9-inch sizes, complemented by a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and an optional head-up display. Although the much-criticized touch sliders remain below the screen, Volkswagen balances them with a physical dial on the center console, borrowed from the Tiguan. The multifunctional dial controls volume, drive modes, and even background “atmospheres,” reducing reliance on touch menus.
Optional features include an ergoActive seat with 14-way electric adjustments and a massage function, as well as a Harman Kardon audio system.
The T-Roc has also improved its ADAS systems. A new version of the Travel Assist system supports automatic lane changing and has improved predictive control for speed limits. This is combined with a new exit warning system and Park Assist Pro, which allows for learned and fully automatic parking at distances up to 50 m with an optional memory function.
Practicality is also improved. Taller passengers benefit from increased cabin space, and cargo capacity grows to 465 liters, which is 20 liters more than before.
Electrified Variants
Under the body, the T-Roc is based on the updated MQB Evo platform. The starting lineup includes two mild-hybrid variants of the 1.5-liter eTSI engine. The base produces 114 hp and 220 Nm, while the more powerful variant offers 148 hp and 250 Nm. Both are paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission and are supported by a 48-volt system that can briefly add 19 hp.
A bigger development will come later with Volkswagen’s first full-fledged hybrid system, a milestone for the group. This setup combines a 1.5-liter TSI evo2 with an electric module and a lithium-ion battery under the rear seats. Two power levels will be available: 134 hp or 168 hp, each producing 306 Nm of torque.
For those who prefer a traditional powertrain, a 2.0-liter TSI will later join the lineup in both standard and mild-hybrid forms, with an additional 4Motion all-wheel-drive option.
Availability and Sales
Pre-sales of the new T-Roc in Europe will start at the end of August, with deliveries planned for November. Prices will be announced closer to the launch. Volkswagen does not plan to supply the T-Roc to North America, where the role of the brand’s smallest crossover is performed by the Taos.
Since its debut in 2017, the T-Roc has sold over 2 million units worldwide. In 2023 alone, Volkswagen delivered 292,000 units, making it the brand’s second most popular SUV after the Tiguan.
The T-Roc update demonstrates how Volkswagen is adapting to modern demands, combining the growing popularity of crossovers with environmental trends. The introduction of a full hybrid, along with improvements in the interior and technology, could significantly enhance the model’s competitiveness in the European market, where demand for cleaner and more technologically advanced cars continues to grow.