The New Volkswagen T-Roc
The Volkswagen T-Roc has become a firm favourite on South African roads, and the new, updated model is here to build on that success. With its sharper design, premium interior, and smart technology, the refreshed T-Roc is more appealing than ever. We take a closer look at what this popular compact SUV brings to Mzansi’s market.
A Bold New Look
The new T-Roc has a more confident and refined design, with a sharper front and rear that give it a sophisticated on-road presence. Every model now comes standard with bright LED headlights, perfect for illuminating our local streets. For those who want the full high-tech experience, the optional IQ.Light LED matrix headlights are a must-have. They are connected by a distinctive light strip across the grille and can automatically adjust to give you the best view without bothering other drivers. The refreshed rear design with darkened LED taillights also adds to its modern flair.
A High-Quality, Connected Interior
Step inside and you'll immediately notice the significant upgrades. The cabin has been transformed with a soft-touch dashboard and more premium materials, giving it a much more luxurious feel than before. Say goodbye to old-school buttons, as the climate control now features modern, touch-sensitive panels.
A major highlight is the standard Digital Cockpit, which replaces traditional dials with a high-resolution, customisable screen. This means you can display everything from your speed to navigation directions right in front of you. On the top-of-the-range R-Line model, you get the advanced Digital Cockpit Pro, which offers even more customisation options. The infotainment system is also new, featuring a "floating" tablet-like screen that is intuitive to use and supports wireless App-Connect for seamless smartphone integration.
Engines and Models for Every Lifestyle
Volkswagen has kept the engine lineup simple and effective, offering two turbocharged petrol engines to cater to different needs.
- 1.4 TSI: The entry point to the range is the 1.4-litre TSI engine, which delivers a strong 110 kW and 250 Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth 8-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox, this engine is perfect for zipping through city traffic and handling daily commutes with ease.
- 2.0 TSI: For those who crave more power and grip, the 2.0-litre TSI engine is available on both the Design and R-Line models. It produces an impressive 140 kW and 320 Nm of torque and comes standard with a quick-shifting 7-speed DSG gearbox and Volkswagen's dependable 4MOTION all-wheel drive. This gives you extra confidence and stability on a variety of road surfaces, from a trip to the coast to a weekend getaway on a gravel road.
It's important for local buyers to note that while other markets may get different engine options or a high-performance "R" model, Volkswagen South Africa has not confirmed whether the T-Roc R will be part of the current local lineup. The 2.0 TSI R-Line, however, offers a fantastic blend of sporty styling and strong performance that is more than enough for most drivers.
The new Volkswagen T-Roc is a comprehensive upgrade that ticks all the right boxes for South African buyers. It offers a stylish and modern design, a vastly improved interior, and a choice of proven, efficient engines, making it a serious contender in the competitive compact SUV segment.
The local launch is set for 2026.
