Ah, the Volkswagen T-Roc. When it first hit the road in 2017, it was like that quiet schoolmate who suddenly becomes the star of the party. Now, in its second generation for 2026, it's back, bigger, smarter and with a bit of irony: why drive a Golf when you can have one just as good, only taller and more "adventurous"? No, it won't conquer the Himalayas, but it will effortlessly overcome city potholes and highway obstacles. This compact crossover, which fits between the T-Cross and the Tiguan, has already sold more than two million units - proof that people love cars that look like they can do more than they can. But hey, that's the charm: the T-Roc is practical, fun and doesn't pretend to be something it's not. Get ready to dive into its details, where we'll find both cynicism about fashion trends and sincere praise for Volkswagen's good work.
Volkswagen didn't risk revolution – why would he if the formula works? New Volkswagen T-Roc It has grown by 122 mm in length, now measuring 4373 mm (172.1 inches), and the wheelbase has been stretched by 28 mm to 2631 mm (103.5 inches). This means more room for rear passengers, which is welcome, as no one likes their knees pressing into the back of the front seat. There are now light bars at the front and rear, connecting the headlights and taillights, and illuminated logos add that “wow” factor we see on modern cars. The fake exhausts are huge, as if to say: “I’m an SUV, look at me!” But let’s be honest, this is a trend that the cynic in me sees as a cheap trick, but it works – the car looks dynamic and confident.
Wheels up to 20 inches are available (previously max 19), which adds style but sacrifices a little comfort on bad roads. The drag coefficient has dropped to 0.29, which is 10 % better, and contributes to better efficiency. They used 40 kg (88 pounds) of recycled plastic bottles in the interior, which represents a fifth of all plastic - commendable for the environment, although cynics ask whether this really saves the planet. Colors? From classic white to flamed red metallic, with the option of a two-tone roof.
Engines and Performance: A Hybrid Future Without Electric Drama
At first, the range is simple but effective: only 1.5-liter mild-hybrid petrol engines with 48V technology. The base model has 85 kW (116 PS/114 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, while the higher-end model has 110 kW (150 PS/148 hp) with the same torque. Both are connected to a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission – goodbye, manual transmission, which the cynic in the menu misses for that “real” driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) is around 8.8 seconds for the 150 PS model, and the top speed is around 205 km/h (127 mph). It’s no race car, but lively enough for everyday use.
Two “all-new” hybrids are coming later – probably plug-in, but no details yet, they remain FWD. For those who want more, there will be a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with or without mild-hybrid, optionally with 4Motion all-wheel drive. Power? Around 140 kW (190 PS/187 hp) or more, with 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration of 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). It is not fully electric – Volkswagen says it will not be, which is perhaps wise, since batteries are not for everyone yet. Consumption? Mild-hybrids promise better efficiency, around 5-6 l/100 km, depending on the driving.
Interior and technology: Big screens, fewer buttons – good or bad?
The interior is minimalist, meaning large screens instead of physical buttons. The infotainment is 10.4- or 12.9-inch (26-33 cm), depending on the trim, with a 10.25-inch (26 cm) digital instrument cluster. Climate controls are now in the display, a trend that cynics see as unnecessary – why tap a screen when you can press a button? But Volkswagen promises to bring back physical buttons in the future, though not for this model. There’s a rotary controller between the seats for easier operation, and the gearshift is now on the steering column.
The boot volume has grown by 20-30 litres to 465-475 litres (16.4-16.8 cu ft), which is enough for a weekend trip or a shopping marathon. There is room for five people in the back, even those taller than 185 cm (6.1 ft). Equipment includes Travel Assist for semi-autonomous driving, Park Assist Pro with remote parking via phone and exit warning for safety. Massage seats in the Style equipment? Yes, please. The background lighting creates a lounge atmosphere – as if you were in a bar, not in a car.
History and Heritage: From the Beetle to the SUV King
Volkswagen's history is full of icons: the Beetle, the Golf. The T-Roc is part of that heritage, as it's based on the same MQB Evo platform as the Golf 8.5. The first generation was a hit, selling more than the Golf in Europe this year (127,309 vs. 119,959 in the first seven months). The convertible version of the old model will remain until 2027, which is strange, but it sells better than the Mazda MX-5 in Europe. The T-Roc is not just a car, it's a symbol of Volkswagen's transition into the SUV era - and it does it well, without overpromising.
Practicality and safety: For families and adventurers
The T-Roc is practical: a towbar with a load capacity of 80 kg (176 lb) for e-bikes, an optional head-up display for speed and navigation projection. Safety? Full: ESC, EDL, ASR, plus exit warning. There is no Euro NCAP for the new generation yet, but we expect 5 stars, like the predecessor. For those who want more adrenaline, the R version is coming in 2027 with a 2.0 turbo engine with around 221 kW (300 PS/296 hp), 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), acceleration of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The cynic says: why wait if the basic one is already fun enough?
Although Volkswagen plays it safe, the 2026 T-Roc is a winner: a mix of practicality, technology and driving dynamics that the Clarkson style in me appreciates. Not the most exciting, but reliable, like an old friend who never lets you down. The cynic in me laughs at the fake exhaust and the absence of a manual transmission – really, VW, have we really become that lazy? But on the positive side: this car finds good in everything. Better space, hybrid efficiency (savings of up to 10 % on consumption) and a premium feel in the cabin make it ideal for families or solo drivers who want an SUV without an excessive off-road ego. Price? In Germany from 30,845 euros for the base model, in Slovenia we expect similar, around 32,000 euros. It won't come to the US, but in Europe it will be king – sales start in November 2025. If you're looking for a car that's "good enough" and a little more, the T-Roc is your choice. What about you, readers? Would you trade it for a Golf? Share in the comments!
