VW T-Roc 1.5 eTSI in First Drive: Conservatively Modernized

Contents

The VW T-Roc has been quite successful so far. In terms of space of a VW Golf (Test), it offered more space than the Golf, and the slightly elevated seating position and the design, which apparently appeal to many in the target group, contributed to the sales figures. The successor will be noticeably larger and a bit more modern without tipping into trendiness. At its core, however, it remains what it already was: a conservative SUV. The only surprising thing is what is planned for the powertrain in the future.

With a total length of 4.37 m, the new model is about 10 cm longer than the old one. This is noticeable in the interior, as there is more freedom of movement both in the front and rear than before. The trunk is also impressive, with 475 liters. The seats in the R-Line version we tested are comfortable and offer good lateral support and plenty of long-distance comfort. A massage function is available for an extra charge.

The interior itself is a bit simple in some areas, but there is little to fault in terms of workmanship or functionality. Each window lift has its switch, and the buttons on the steering wheel are actually buttons, not touch surfaces. The inductive charging pad for smartphones is very easy to reach, and the infotainment system's surface can be extensively customized to your preferences. The touch surface for volume and temperature is illuminated. The door pockets are lined with carpet, and the storage compartment in the center has a rubber insert for small items. The only “risk” is the rotary push button between the seats, which can be assigned various functions. This may not appeal to everyone.

Routinely Tuned

On the road, it's striking how routinely VW handles some things. The brakes have a precise pressure point, and the steering is also precise. It even offers a certain amount of feedback—not a given in a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The SUV is also quite well insulated. Overall, it can be said that traveling is significantly worse than in the new VW T-Roc.

All engines are paired with a dual-clutch transmission and are at least mild hybrids. We drove the base gasoline engine, which produces 85 kW and 220 Nm from a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. Although the new T-Roc is over 150 kg heavier than its predecessor, even the entry-level version is adequately powered. The 48-volt starter generator contributes up to 13 kW and 56 Nm in the lower rev range. The transmission is appropriately geared and usually finds the right moment for gear changes. If you don't have exceptionally high-performance demands, you'll be well served here. If in doubt, we would rather invest the money in better equipment.

Internal Competition

The decision for the 110 kW version, which accelerates noticeably more powerfully, does not result in any disadvantage in terms of consumption, at least in the cycle. In WLTP, both are between 5.5 and 6 liters. This is not outstandingly economical for a brand-new car. In terms of environmental impact, a Skoda Elroq (Test) with battery-electric drive leaves it in the dust, both in terms of environmental impact and daily experience. Those who charge cleverly also have lower energy costs. Financially, they are not much different to buy. From next year, VW will offer two full hybrids, about which not much is yet known. The system output is said to be 100 and 125 kW. It will be interesting to see how the group positions them financially in the T-Roc.

Prices

The base model of the T-Roc costs just under 31,000 euros, making it about as expensive as a comparable VW Golf. Presumably, most T-Roc interested parties will ultimately move up at least one level in the hierarchy and choose “Life” instead of “Trend.” Then the steering wheel will have a leather cover, the passenger seat will have height adjustment, and the automatic climate control will have a second temperature zone. The adaptive cruise control, a split rear seat, a rearview camera, the charging cradle for the mobile phone, and alloy instead of steel wheels are also only standard on the more expensive variant ex works.

Conclusion

The new T-Roc doesn't do anything fundamentally different from its predecessor, but it does bring progress. It offers more space and comfort; its infotainment runs stably and can be configured flexibly. VW has deliberately stuck with combustion engines in this car, which may seem understandable given the current distribution of powertrains in sales, but on the other hand, it is only a snapshot. Because the T-Roc already has a tough competitor internally and externally, there will be more and more every year. It has no chance against an electric car in daily use in terms of powertrain. However, VW is probably rightly hoping that it will take some time before this fact becomes more widely known than it is currently.

(emw)