Volkswagen has updated the T-Roc compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) with new features to keep it competitive. This refresh introduces new performance variants, including the sporty R and the open-top Cabriolet.
Size-wise, it measures 4,236 mm in length, 1,584 mm in height and 1,819 mm in width, making it shorter, wider and taller than the Golf. Notably, its trunk space is 17% larger than that of its sibling, further enhancing its appeal for those seeking a practical compact SUV. The wheelbase stretches to 2,590 mm, allowing for increased cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
[Source: Volkswagen]
The T-Roc is available in three trim levels: Entry-level Life, luxury-oriented Style and the sporty R-Line. The Life trim includes Lane Assist, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, an 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit, LED headlights and power-folding heated door mirrors, all powered by a 1.0-liter TSI 110 PS three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a six-speed manual transmission.
Moving up to the Style trim, buyers will find a larger Digital Cockpit Pro, Discover Media navigation, and sports comfort seats in ArtVelours microfleece. Additional features include privacy glass and LED “Plus” headlights.
For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the R-Line trim offers unique body styling, 17-inch “Valencia” alloy wheels, sports suspension and silver roof rails. Inside, the black roof lining, R-Line badging and gloss black trim contribute to a more dynamic atmosphere, complemented by progressive steering and selectable driving modes.
[Source: Volkswagen]
The interior design emphasizes spaciousness and a contemporary feel, highlighted by a decorative trim panel that spans the dashboard in either matte black or a contrasting color. The foam-cushioned dash and distinctive stitching enhance the overall quality, while the elevated seating position ensures an unobstructed view of the road.
Standard infotainment features include an 8-inch TFT color screen as part of the Digital Cockpit, displaying critical driving data and driver assistance status. Navigation systems provide real-time route instructions, and drivers can easily switch display styles via a button on the steering wheel. The T-Roc also uses Volkswagen’s third-generation Modular Infotainment Toolkit (MIB3), offering a range of online functions, including voice control and streaming services, alongside wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
[Source: Volkswagen]
The T-Roc incorporates a digital control system for automatic air conditioning, using touch sliders for temperature and fan adjustments, thereby reducing the number of conventional buttons. Optional electrically powered tailgate functionality enhances convenience, allowing users to load and unload by moving their foot under the rear apron.
[Source: Volkswagen]
Overall, the T-Roc’s interior is a blend of strengths and a few notable weaknesses. The driving position is comfortable and commanding, with supportive, figure-hugging sports seats that excel during spirited driving and remain comfortable on long journeys. The flat-bottomed steering wheel and R badging add a sporty flair, while the digital driver’s display is a highlight — highly configurable and able to show everything from navigation to trip data. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with logical menus, a rotary knob for easy navigation, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Slender front pillars and a raised seating position offer good visibility, although thick rear pillars restrict rear visibility. Standard front and rear parking sensors, plus an optional rear-view camera, help compensate for this limitation.
Material quality is a mixed bag. A midlife facelift improved things with a soft-touch upper dashboard and piano-black climate-control panel, but some scratchy plastics remain, meaning the cabin feels more upmarket than before but still falls short of the plushness offered by some rivals.
Front passenger space is generous, with plenty of head and leg room, even for tall adults. The cabin is practical, offering wide door bins and several useful storage cubbies. Trunk space is 392 liters in the all-wheel-drive R model, and the rear seat bench folds in a 60/40 split, although the rear seats do not slide or recline, nor is there an option to upgrade to a more versatile 40/20/40 split.
[Source: Volkswagen]
On the road, the T-Roc delivers the reassuring driving experience typical of Volkswagen, with precise steering, good grip and a stable ride. While adaptive dampers are available, the standard setup is well-suited for most drivers. The 1.5-liter TSI engine provides strong and efficient performance, delivering ample power for everyday use and impressive real-world fuel economy. However, the automatic direct-shift gearbox (DSG) can be jerky at low speeds, especially during parking. Overall, the T-Roc presents a comfortable and practical interior, although VW could improve on some design choices and rear seat flexibility to enhance its competitiveness in the segment.
VW T-Roc R Black Edition
[Source: Volkswagen]
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