- Volkswagen’s final gas-powered SUV, the T-Roc, receives a sleek makeover inspired by the Tiguan.
- Inside, the T-Roc will feature a massive 12.9-inch infotainment system equipped with AI.
- Expect a range of powertrains, including hybrids and PHEVs, and possibly a sporty “R” variant.
The Volkswagen T-Roc, a hugely popular and stylish compact SUV, has captivated European and Asia-Pacific buyers with agile handling and a refined appearance.
Poised to be Volkswagen’s final internal combustion engine (ICE) model to be developed, the T-Roc has recently been observed by our keen-eyed spy photographers undergoing winter evaluations in Europe. Despite the light disguise, we’ve pieced together an illustrated preview of what to expect.
Drawing from the Tiguan
The 2025 T-Roc borrows design elements from its larger sibling, the Volkswagen Tiguan, adding a touch of maturity and a sleeker silhouette. The front features a striking backlit panel that bridges the innovative IQ Light LED Matrix headlamps. A curved hood and a ‘pinched’ hourglass-shaped grille flanked by dynamic side vent graphics accentuate its sharp looks.
Along the sides, the T-Roc maintains its characteristic upper chrome trim line that gracefully arcs over the windows before plunging over the C-pillar. Cleaner sheet metal and scalloped details above the wheel arches refine its profile, while the rear adopts a more rakish stance with blocky, geometrically designed taillamps.
Next-Generation Comfort and Technology
Resting on the latest iteration of the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform that’s shared with the Golf and Audi A3, the T-Roc’s cabin introduces cutting-edge technology and enhanced comfort. A new, sizable 12.9-inch infotainment system equipped with ChatGPT stands at the helm, alongside wireless connectivity and charging capabilities.
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Volkswagen aims to elevate the driving experience with ambient lighting, premium materials, smartphone-integrated parking assistance, and potential improvements to the vehicle’s soundproofing to dampen road noise more effectively.
Efficient and Powerful
Under the hood, speculation suggests that the T-Roc will adopt a similar array of engines found in the latest Mk8.5 Golf. This includes a selection of 1.5-litre mild-hybrid powertrains delivering up to 147 hp (110 kW), plug-in hybrid options offering 62 miles (100 km) of electric-only propulsion and up to 268 hp (200 kW) in the GTE model, and a duo of diesel engines for those chewing up the miles.
Review: Europe’s New 2024 VW Tiguan Thinks It’s Wolfsburg’s BMW X1
A high-performance ‘R’ variant may make a comeback to add an exciting edge to the lineup. Standard models will feature front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive should remain an option. Both a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission are likely to be available.
Timeline and Competition
Despite receiving a facelift just last year, the T-Roc is set for a full model update with a reveal later this year or in the first half of 2025 at the earliest. We can also say goodbye to the quirky T-Roc Cabriolet, and don’t expect this update to reach North American shores, where the larger Taos SUV remains Volkswagen’s entry-level crossover.
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The T-Roc is a formidable contender against the Toyota Corolla Cross, Skoda Karoq, Volvo XC40, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Niro, and Honda ZR-V, each vying for dominance in the bustling compact SUV market.
Should Volkswagen bring the T-Roc to North America? We’d love to hear your views in the comments below.
