The T-Roc has been yet another success story for Volkswagen and I discovered just recently that it is one of the best-selling SUV in mainland Europe, quite an achievement in a market which is crowded by SUVs.
Now comes the latest model which is designed in Germany and built in Portuga. The T-Roc first appeared in 2017, since then two million have been sold. Four years ago there were a number of enhancements and now the latest generation model; which has been improved in all areas. Volkswagen is confident that everything it takes to continue this success story: progressive design, innovative technologies, top quality and value, intuitive operation and pleasantly balanced handling will continue to make this compact SUV attractive to not only existing customers but to conquest new sales. A major development with the latest model is brand-new hybrid drive systems, a newly developed and high-quality interior, new infotainment, cockpit and operating systems from the larger Tiguan and Tayron In answer to existing customers there is more space in the interior and luggage compartment, and assist systems such as Travel Assist that are in some cases unique in its class.
Hybrid power reigns with the new model and one of the most successful Volkswagen drive systems will be offered, a 1.5 litre turbocharged engine as a 48 V mild hybrid (1.5 eTSI) in two output levels with 85 kW (116 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS). Both versions are high-tech systems: they convert kinetic energy into electrical energy by means of recuperation and store this in a compact lithium-ion battery. As a result, the efficient combustion engine can be switched off repeatedly during a journey, this coasting mode saves fuel and reduces emissions. If the four-cylinder engine is in operation, two cylinders are also shut down as often as possible, which also reduces fuel consumption. In addition, the hybrid system’s electric boost optimises the performance when driving off, as a 48 V belt-driven starter-alternator with an additional electric torque of up to 56 Nm, noticeable when pulling away on uphill gradients. Two new hybrid developments will make their debut in the T-Roc; a two litre turbocharged petrol engine with 48 V mild hybrid system (2.0 eTSI) and a 1.5 litre full hybrid (Hybrid). The new hybrid drives will also be available in two output levels: the new 2.0 eTSI is always coupled to the 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the 2.0 eTSI 4MOTION with 150 kW (204 PS) will be launched first. Towards the end of 2026, the new and even more powerful high-end flagship version with this drive technology will follow: the T-Roc R 4MOTION developed by the premium performance brand Volkswagen R. Also next year, the two new 1.5 litre full hybrid engines with front-wheel drive and outputs of 100 kW (136 PS) and 125 kW (170 PS) will complement the range of six versions, four with front-wheel drive and two with all-wheel drive, all equipped with automatic gearboxes. Of course this may vary across different markets.
A feature of all versions will be a high level of standard equipment with options such as IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with high-performance main beam and 3D LED tail light clusters with dynamic flashing function, electrically adjustable seats, the head-up display, a Harman Kardon sound system with an output of 480 watts; assist systems such as Travel Assist for semi-automated driving functions, the adaptive chassis control DCC, a large tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof and a Black Style package with black exterior details including black alloy wheels.
All versions of the T-Roc can be ordered with a towing bracket whose drawbar load of 80 kg is designed for transporting heavy e-bikes.
Ian Lynas