With the T-Roc presented at the end of 2017, VW closed the gap between the Golf and Tiguan in its compact class range. And with success: the SUV sells like hot cakes. And how is the compact SUV doing at TÜV?
body and interior
At 4.23 meters in length, the T-Roc is about as long as a Golf. Like the Golf, but also the Tiguan, Audi Q2, Seat Ateca or Skoda Karoq, the T-Roc uses the Group's modular transverse matrix. The operation is therefore known from other VW (Group) vehicles. Nevertheless, the crossover sets its own accents inside and out, be it with the coupé-like body, the roof in a contrasting color or the colorful cockpit, which can be fully networked if desired.
The beefy front end, distinctive wheel arches and large rocker panels do the rest to make the T-Roc stand out. As far as the space is concerned, the T-Roc is cut differently than the Golf, offers more trunk space with full seating, but less space in the rear. Depending on the position of the rear seat backrests, the loading volume varies between 392 and 1237 liters. For fans of fresh air, VW has had a convertible version on offer since the beginning of 2020. The four-seater has an electrically closing or opening soft top and stretches over a length of 4.37 meters.
With the facelift at the end of 2021, VW improved the interior appearance. Since then, there have been soft-touch surfaces again instead of hard plastic. The analogue instrument cluster has been retired and LED headlights are now always part of the standard equipment.
engines and propulsion
Gasoline, diesel, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive - everything is available for the T-Roc. The majority of customers have so far opted for a petrol engine. The basic engine is a one-liter three-cylinder with initially 85 kW/115 hp (since the end of 2020: 81 kW/110 hp). The three-cylinder is always coupled to a manual six-speed gearbox and front-wheel drive. The standard consumption values are between 5.1 and 5.6 liters. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 110 kW/150 hp comes with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
The power unit was also available with all-wheel drive. Always standard is 4x4 drive and seven-speed DSG for the two-liter engine with 140 kW/190 hp and for the most powerful T-Roc unit with 221 kW/300 hp, the R 4Motion. The top engine is limited to 250 km/h. Its average consumption of 7.5 to 7.8 liters should only be achievable with a cautious driving style.
The diesel range includes a 1.6 liter with 115 hp and a two-liter in the expansion stages with 150 and 190 hp. As an alternative to front-wheel drive, the 150 hp engine can also be ordered with 4x4 drive. The 190 hp version was factory-equipped with all-wheel drive, but flew out of the program with the facelift. At the same time, the 1.6 was dropped and replaced by a 2.0-liter also with 115 hp. The average fuel consumption is between 4.2 and 5.2 liters.
equipment and security
The comfort levels are called "T-Roc", "T Roc Style" or "T-Roc Sport". "R-Line" is also available for the convertible. The basic variant is comparatively well equipped. In addition to the radio and air conditioning, there is also a lane departure warning system and the city emergency braking function. Items such as adaptive dampers and digital instruments are also available for an additional charge. With Style, the first owner was able to brighten up the dashboard and the interior door panels with colored decorative inserts. With Sport, on the other hand, a more functional ambience with many chrome applications in the interior is announced. With the facelift, VW has expanded the range of comfort and assistance systems, including Travel Assist, Side Assist, the anticipatory distance cruise control and a forward-parking parking assistant. The T-Roc passed the NCAP crash test with a five-star rating.
quality
T-Roc owners were able to experience the first trip to the main inspection at the TÜV in a very relaxed manner. So far, the TÜV inspectors have had nothing to complain about or criticize. Everything is in the green.
Conclusion: The T-Roc made a convincing impression right from the start and has so far been able to convince buyers and TÜV inspectors of its qualities. For older specimens you have to invest at least 15,000 euros, the still quite new convertible models are available from around 25,000 euros.
