Presentation of the VW T-Roc: Continued conservative success?
VW presents the second T-Roc, which comes as little surprise. However, there is no lack of courage behind it, but clever calculation.
(Image: VW)
After eight years, VW presents the second edition of one of its most successful SUV models. The next T-Roc will be considerably larger but only takes a tentative step towards the future in terms of drive systems. However, the plan behind this idea could well work out for VW.
Considerably longer
At just under 4.4 m, the second T-Roc is 12 cm longer than its predecessor, which has been on sale since 2017. Such an increase is definitely in line with the trend: the Peugeot 2008 and Hyundai Kona have also grown considerably with their model changes. VW promises more space for passengers, although the wheelbase has only been increased by 3 cm. The luggage compartment has grown by 30 to 475 liters. There is apparently no sliding rear seat. However, a driver's seat with massage function is new to the range. The T-Roc has adopted a few details from other Group models. These include a rotary control that can be assigned various functions, which the driver can then switch between at the touch of a button. We just had a Skoda Superb with this in the editorial office, in which all drivers liked this idea after a short period of familiarization.
VW T-Roc 2025 außen (4 Bilder)
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)VW saves shiny wiping surfaces on the steering wheel. The wiping groove in front of the screen, which is used to adjust the volume and temperature, is backlit in this car. The optional glass roof can be opened – perhaps also in response to customers who miss this in the ID models. Each window regulator has its own switch in the T-Roc. The Group is therefore responding to criticism and also promises high-quality interior trim.
New helpers
Volkswagen has gradually upgraded its infotainment systems, and the T-Roc should satisfy most requirements in this area. Some functions can be activated at a later date. The optional sound system comes from Harman/Kardon. VW has expanded the assistance system somewhat: those who wish can be assisted when changing lanes. The adaptive cruise control reacts to speed limits, traffic conditions, and the course of the route. It is also possible to control the parking process via smartphone.
VW T-Roc 2025 innen (7 Bilder)
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)Drives: it stays with the combustion engine
At first glance, the engine strategy that VW is pursuing in the T-Roc is unconventional. The manual gearbox and diesel engine have been dropped from the range. There will be neither a battery-electric drive nor a plug-in hybrid. The basis does not allow for the former, and the latter has too little chance of sales globally, according to the forecast. So combustion engines will do the job. For those customers who prefer an electric drive, the group has other models in its range or in preparation. A 1.5-liter mild hybrid with 85 and 110 kW will be offered at the start, which are specified with 5.5 to 6 liters in the WLTP. There is no alternative to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in these engines.
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This is followed by a two-liter, which is also designed as a mild hybrid and is the only drive system to offer all-wheel drive for now. The press release is secretive about two further engines, which are designed as full hybrids. VW is not currently revealing their performance and fuel consumption. But there is already a price: the base model will cost 30,845 euros, which is less than VW charges for a Golf with dual-clutch transmission. The dealer premiere of the second T-Roc is scheduled for November.
(Image: VW)
Success is likely to continue
Critics may argue that VW has deliberately avoided any risk with the new edition and simply delivered what is likely to continue to be successful on the global market. More surprising than the significant growth is the announcement of two newly developed full hybrids, which run counter to the strategy of focusing everything on battery-electric drives. Above all, however, the financial classification is surprising: the new T-Roc is significantly larger than a VW Golf, but if the customer no longer wants to change gear themselves, the SUV costs less. This also suggests that the success of the conservatively designed T-Roc is likely to continue.
(mfz)