THE 2ND GENERATION IS HERE - VOLKSWAGEN PULLS THE COVERS OFF THE ALL-NEW T-ROC.
Volkswagen has lifted the wraps on the second generation of its best-selling T-Roc, and while it still wears that unmistakable coupe-SUV look, this is far more than just a facelift. Rebuilt from the ground up, the new T-Roc packs in a rad new design, some cutting-edge hybrid powertrains, a seriously upgraded interior, and clever new tech that blurs the line between premium and mainstream. From the outside, it’s clear the T-Roc hasn’t lost its identity. The sloping coupe-like rear end that made the original so popular is still here - only sharper, longer, and more confident. At 12 cm longer than before, the proportions have been stretched in all the right places, giving it a more muscular stance. Lighting is the new jewellery in car design, and the T-Roc wears it well. Standard-fit LED headlights now frame the front end, while higher trims add IQ.LIGHT LED matrix units linked by a slim illuminated light strip and a glowing VW badge. Out back, a continuous LED bar and illuminated red VW badge add drama to the nighttime signature - it looks so damn good.
Step inside, and you’ll forget this SUV once competed with the "budget family car" crowd. The dashboard is wrapped in premium new fabric, with customizable ambient lighting that transforms the cabin into a lounge on wheels. Front and centre: an infotainment display stretching up to 33 cm (that’s 13 inches in old money), packed with the latest software. Borrowing tech from its bigger Tiguan and Tayron siblings, the T-Roc now offers driving experience control that handles everything from driving modes to volume. A head-up display projecting speed and nav prompts onto the windscreen makes its debut in this class.
Rear passengers aren’t forgotten either - thanks to the extra length, adults over 1.85 m can sit comfortably behind equally tall front occupants. For those who like a touch of luxury, the Style trim introduces 14-way ergoActive seats with massage function. The boot? Now up to 475 litres, enough for a family’s gear and then some.
Under the skin, the T-Roc rides on the MQB evo platform, Volkswagen’s latest modular architecture. That brings advanced driver-assistance features once reserved for higher classes. Think Travel Assist that not only helps with lane-keeping but can handle automatic lane changes, Park Assist Pro that remembers your favourite tricky parking spot and nails it on its own, and an exit warning system that alerts you if a cyclist is coming up behind just as you’re about to open the door.
Every T-Roc in Europe will now be electrified in some way. The launch line-up includes two 48V mild-hybrid petrol engines (1.5 eTSI) producing 85 kW or 110 kW. Later, two all-new full hybrids will join the range, while those wanting extra shove can wait for the 2.0-litre TSI mild hybrid with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. And yes, a T-Roc R will return as the halo performance model. We only care about this one, not that we’ll actually be buying it; it’s just the one we’d lust after. All versions get Volkswagen’s slick 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox, keeping shifts seamless and efficient. To keep things simple, Volkswagen has bundled T-Roc features into four core trims:
T-Roc: practical and functional
Life: comfort-focused
Style: design and technology highlights
R-Line: sporty flair
Paint choices include six finishes from classic Pure White to bold Canary Yellow and Celestial Blue, with the option of a contrasting black roof. An integrated towbar option supports up to 80 kg - strong enough for heavy e-bikes. Built in Palmela, Portugal, the first-gen T-Roc has sold more than two million units since its 2017 debut. In 2024 alone, nearly 300,000 customers across Europe chose one, making it Volkswagen’s second most successful SUV after the Tiguan. We’re sure we’ll see these being snapped up in SA, and that range-topping R version is going to attract loads of attention, especially after it’s accessorised through places like VAG Cafe. There's no word on its arrival on our shores, but we'll surely get them in some or other spec.
Take a look at the YouTube video that shows you the worldwide premiere of the all-new Volkswagen T-Roc - the automaker's 2nd most popular SUV that we'll surely see modified at Camp Fest in the near future: Curtain up! The all-new T-Roc enters the stage. | Volkswagen World Premiere | Volkswagen News
Be sure to check out our YouTube channel here for more exciting and exclusive SXdrv content! And don't forget to smash that subscribe button!