VW is launching the T-Roc compact SUV in the UK in two separate stages, where the initial batch of trim levels will be available to order immediately, while more versions will join in December.

The German automaker is also inviting buyers to be among the first 1,000 retail customers, so that they can receive smart T-Roc accessory running boards (£565) for free.

Paying the base price of £20,425 RRP OTR means getting behind the wheel of the entry-level SE model, powered by a 115 HP 1.0-liter TSI petrol unit, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Once all versions become available to order, the T-Roc lineup will be offered in S, SE, Design, SEL and R-Line trims. Standard specs will include two-zone climate control, Composition Media infotainment system with 8″ color touch-screen, Bluetooth telephone and audio connection, DAB radio, USB connectivity and charging, 6x20W speakers and 16″ alloys.

If customers want more style, they can opt for Design spec models, which provide a choice of color dashpad and interior door panels, alongside standard features like ambient lighting in the front foot wells and light strips below the front door trims. However, if infotainment is more of a priority, know that the new Active Info Display is optionally available on all T-Rocs (aside from the entry-level model), and standard on SEL versions.

Speaking of options, there’s a wide array of Driver Alert Systems available for T-Roc buyers, such as Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring and City Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Rear View camera system, Lane change system with Rear Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor lane change system (available early 2018), Lane Assist, Park Assist, Traffic Jam Assist (early 2018), Emergency Assist (early 2018), Proactive occupant protection system, Driver Alert system and Light Assist main-beam control system.

As for convenience options, there’s the electrically operated tailgate, electrically operated sliding/tilting panoramic sunroof, Vienna leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging and a 400-watt, six-speaker audio system by Beats Audio.

Only the following engine and trim levels are currently available to order across the UK:

SE 1.0 TSI, 115 PS, 6-speed manual
SE 1.5 TSI EVO, 150 PS, 6-speed manual
Design 1.0 TSI, 115 PS, 6-speed manual
Design 1.5 TSI EVO, 150 PS, 6-speed manual
SEL 1.5 TSI EVO, 150 PS, 6-speed manual
SEL 2.0 TSI, 190 PS, 4MOTION 7-Speed DSG

In December, UK buyers will also be able to get the 1.5 TSI with the 7-speed automatic and either front or AWD, but also a 1.6-liter TDI diesel with 115 PS, 6-speed manual and FWD. The 2.0-liter TDI diesel with 150 PS will come with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG as well as in FWD and 4MOTION AWD specs.

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