First drive in the VW T-Roc: It has to rock

The VW T-Roc was developed in Europe and is also built here, which is a source of great pride at the Portuguese plant south of Lisbon. As Europe's best-selling SUV, it is also an important pillar of VW Group sales. The engineers seem to have almost stage fright before the new rock star's first appearance. However, this is unfounded, as the new T-Roc clearly looks cooler than its more reserved predecessor. It has also grown by 12 centimeters to a length of 4.37 meters. On the plus side, the T-Roc has only gained one centimeter in width to 1.83 meters, so it doesn't break the compact mold like many other new models. The wheelbase has grown by 4 centimeters, which is noticeable in the rear legroom and also in the trunk volume, which has increased by 30 liters to 475 liters.

So much for the figures, but above all, the T-Roc looks much fresher and more expressive. The thinner LED headlights are connected at the front and rear by a horizontal light strip. The VW logo can also be illuminated at the rear on request. Visually, the more striking crest grille sets the tone – and the coupé-style rear end is also a hit.

Clearly higher-quality interior
The VW SUV has certainly made the biggest leap forward in terms of its interior, which has been upgraded from local cultural centers to the big stage. The T-Roc boasts significantly higher-quality materials and a wealth of features that are normally only found in higher vehicle classes. No wonder, as the new generation is based on the latest MQB evo modular transverse matrix, which also underpins VW models such as the Tiguan and Passat. This also provides space for many assistance systems such as Travel Assist with automatic lane change, a head-up display, LED matrix lights, and Park Assist Plus, which allows you to get out of the car and guide it into a parking space using your smartphone.

The interior and multimedia system with large touchscreen are also appealing, even if we would prefer to have certain buttons for operation. We didn't like the new door handle during our first test drives in Portugal. It is now more of a flap than a handle, which you have to pull up to get out. Somehow, it's not as intuitive as before and therefore not necessarily an improvement.

Excellent chassis
On the other hand, there is nothing to complain about when it comes to the chassis and precise steering, which are impressive. Even on Portugal's less-than-perfect country roads and cobblestone passages, the T-Roc is extremely comfortable to drive. Even with the smaller entry-level mild hybrid with 116 hp/85 kW, you have more than enough power for everyday driving. Of course, the 150 hp/110 kW version, which harmonizes well with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, offers more fun and a slightly higher driving rhythm.

And like a true rock star, the VW T-Roc loves the glare of the spotlight. No wonder, then, that the optional IQ.Light LED matrix headlights turn the road into a grand stage for the VW, even at night. The road is optimally illuminated without dazzling other road users, and the dynamic high-beam assistant automatically adjusts everything to the traffic situation – so you can really relax and drive safely.

All-wheel drive and, from 2027, even an R model will be available
In the second half of 2026, the T-Roc will also be launched with two full hybrids, in which a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with 136 hp/100 kW or 170 hp/125 kW is combined with an electric motor. And important for Switzerland: there will also be a new 2.0-liter with 204 hp/150 kW and all-wheel drive. In addition, the Wolfsburg-based company has announced an R model with plenty of power: a 2.0-liter TSI mild hybrid with 333 hp/245 kW and 400 Nm, scheduled for 2027. But actually, the T-Roc already makes a good impression in R-Design and with a less powerful engine. Incidentally, the new T-Roc will be available on Swiss roads from CHF 30,800.