We joined Volkswagen SA, who are celebrating 75 years of being in Mzansi, at the La Motte estate in Stellenbosch for the launch of the new generation T-Roc. The new car receives a visual overhaul, a long list of new standard equipment, and even more smart, class-leading technology.
The looks of the new T Roc
When the T-Roc nameplate was introduced in South Africa back in 2017, the model had already existed for two years in other global markets, making the vehicle rather dated in the looks department from launch. Three years after that, Volkswagen made a quick effort to introduce the facelift version, just in time for the nameplate to receive quite a liking and go on to sell a considerable number of T-Rocs that year.
I am glad to report that in the flesh, the new 2nd-gen T-Roc looks quite good. This new model sports a design that almost resembles a mini Tiguan, which is not a bad thing at all, since the Tiguan is quite the looker. At the front, the car features new signature DRLs, which include the brand's class-leading IQ Matrix lighting technology, originally available only on higher models in the brand's portfolio.
The sharper nose design sports a more sleek and slim grille that houses a lightbar on higher trim models, while lower down, there are neatly arranged vents and air openings, giving the car a kind of closed-off EV appearance.
The side profile is still noticeably the most T-Roc element on the car, as here you will find a coupe-esque sloping roofline that gives the vehicle quite the agile demeanor . Wheel sizes and designs have also been upgraded to now offer 16-inch Bilbao wheels, 18-inch "Coventry" alloy wheels, and 19-inch black "York Aero" rims.
The rear also features a new lightbar arrangement that spans the entire width of the short electronically adjusted boot lid. Together with an illuminated logo at night, it brings a sense of occasion about the vehicle's design, which I feel the previous models and facelift lacked on the design front. Additionally, the top-of-the-range Black Style model variant offers more black accent detailing and even fully black alloys , as can be seen with the model we had the opportunity to drive.
One engine option for now..
Speaking of driving, Volkswagen has retained the 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine that produces 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired with an 8-speed gearbox driving the front wheels. When asked about the possibility of an engine lineup addition, Chris Mlostchwa added that there is a chance we may see the newly debuted 1.5L HEV engine join the T-Roc lineup locally, but this is being closely monitored and is pending a final decision.
Interior cabin and space
It is still quite cramped in the interior of the T-Roc, but the upgrade in quality and the now expansive list of materials available to spec in the interior, like the recycled material found on the dashboard, means that it is quite a nice space to be in. The new dashboard itself upgrades hardware by featuring a 12.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen and a new 10-inch driver's display that is configurable and of high quality.
There is some idea of "practicality" as the car debuts a 40:20 split for loading longer items into the 425l boot space area that comes with a spare wheel. The interior retains niceties like ambient lighting, electric adjustable seating, an optional Harman Kardon sound system but also opens you up to more options like the panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seating for all seats front and back, and a heads-up display.
Safety upgrades
The T Roc is set to receive the IQ.DRIVE Package which adds advanced semi-autonomous driving features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Front Assist (with pedestrian monitoring), Side Assist, Lane Keeping System with Traffic Jam Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, and an Exit Warning system.
Pricing
This was recently seen with the rival Hyundai Creta, but Volkswagen has also taken the same steps in ensuring that this new generation T-Roc isn't all that much more expensive when put against its predecessor in terms of pricing. The previous-generation T-Roc range was priced from R648,900 to R760,100. In a surprising move, the new lineup features an entry price that is R49,000 cheaper than its predecessor.
From launch, there will be three trims/derivatives to choose from which are mainly : q
- Life (Entry-level): From R599,900
- Design / R-Line Plus: From R689,900
- R-Line Black Style: From R709,900
The new-generation Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with a 3-year / 120,000 km mechanical warranty and a 5-year / 90,000 km EasyDrive Service Plan in South Africa.