A second generation of Volkswagen’s hugely popular T-Roc model has been unveiled, writes James Stinson
The latest version of VW’s big selling SUV boasts a significantly improved interior and a radical hybrid drivetrain that will be rolled out across the brand’s line-up.
Despite selling more than two million units of the old car since it launched in 2017, this is a hotly contested market and the competition has moved on – something not lost on VW. Developed completely from scratch, the latest T-Roc is more striking to look at, roomier and has a far classier interior.
It retains the characteristic T-Roc DNA with the coupé-like rear end and makes the most of the advantages of 12 cm more overall length compared to its predecessor. The larger proportions are what make the dynamic design possible, says VW.
The lighting design also plays a significant role in the new T-Roc. New LED headlights at the front are standard. IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights are available as an option and are connected to the white illuminated Volkswagen logo by a narrow light strip. The rear end of the new T-Roc also features a continuous LED crossbar with a red illuminated Volkswagen logo (depending on equipment).
Being longer than its predecessor, VW says the new T-Roc can accommodate five people in comfort, including six footers. The boot is bigger too, by some 30 litres.
The interior has been significantly improved, with premium quality, soft surfaces and innovative technologies. For example, the dash panel is upholstered in a newly developed fabric, which creates a “lounge-style atmosphere” together with the background lighting.
The new T-Roc also adopts numerous features from the larger Tiguan model, with a 10 inch digital instrument display, a 12.9 inch infotainment touchscreen, a head-up display as well as Volkswagen’s new multifunction digital rotary dial in the centre console, which can adjust the drive mode, audio volume or interior settings.
T-Roc will also have more advanced safety systems. These include features like automatic lane changes, automatic parking which can perform tricky manoeuvres by itself and an exit warning system to prevent you opening doors into cyclists or other traffic.
At launch, there will be two 1.5 litre mild hybrid petrol engines with either 134bhp or 168bhp. Both are only available with an automatic gearbox; there’s no manual option.
Volkswagen is also adding a full hybrid system to the T-Roc at a later date, making this the first model it’s ever offered with a system like this. It’ll likely work in a similar way to the hybrid system in the Toyota C-HR, which means it’ll be able to travel in town on electric power only, making it much more economical. A sporter R version is also on the cards as is a four-wheel-drive variant.
The T-Roc will be launched with a choice of four trims – base, Life, Style and R-Line – with various options and packages available on top.
Prices haven’t been revealed yet, but the T-Roc is likely to slot in between the Golf and the Tiguan slightly above £30,000.