Volkswagen T-Roc

Expert Review by Maxabout

Overview

Volkswagen's India lineup has previously included SUVs such as the mid-size Tiguan and the premium Touareg. With the demand for compact SUVs increasing in recent years, the manufacturer introduced the T-Roc as a CBU (fully constructed unit). It comes in a single, fully loaded form.

The T-Roc 2021 oozes character and confidence, being strong, striking, and sporty. It's an SUV that's as confident as you are. Volkswagen has created the T-Roc for a confident you, with a bold design carved into every element and packed with sophisticated technology.

Volkswagen T-Roc Design and Style

Volkswagen has opted for a more traditional approach with the front grilles instead of following the trend. A two-slat grille with a chrome strip extending from one headlamp unit to the other is standard on the T-Roc. Twin-pod LED headlights flank it, with LED DRLs which surround the faux air inlets and also function as turn indicators and fog lamps hidden beside the honeycomb-pattern-like air dam in the front bumper.

Volkswagen has fitted the new T-Roc with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels that sit comfortably in the wheel arches. A chrome strip runs from the A-pillar to the C-pillar, enhancing the SUV's upscale appearance. When viewed from the side, it emphasises the SUV's dual-tone colour. The rear has a sloping roofline and traditional Volkswagen-style LED tail lamp modules. VW logo and 'T-Roc' inscription are in the centre of the tailgate and it receives rear fog lamps and faux air dams with chrome surround in the back bumper.

Volkswagen T-Roc Engine and Gearbox

The compact premium SUV is a petrol-only model powered by the Skoda-Volkswagen Group's 1.5-litre, four-cylinder TSI EVO engine paired to a 7-speed DSG transmission. T-Roc’s engine produces 150 HP and 250 Nm and comes with a front-wheel drivetrain. The engine is one of the market's most refined turbo-petrol engines. It is smooth in both the city and on the highway, and it even has paddle shifters for people who prefer more control over their vehicle. The SUV is an all-rounder, capable of giving performance and efficiency as needed.

Volkswagen has outfitted the new T-Roc with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which deactivates two of the four cylinders (depending on driving pattern) to reduce fuel consumption. The 'ECO' light in the top half of the MID will flash if it's operating. The beauty of this technology is that it is so smooth that you will never feel it activate while driving.

There are two drive modes available for the new T-Roc: Drive and Sport. The former is ideal for daily metropolitan commuting, with practically imperceptible gear adjustments. When the Sport mode is in action, the SUV becomes more responsive, with the engine revving all the way to the redline.

Volkswagen T-Roc Suspension, Brakes and Tyres

2023 Volkswagen T-Roc is an impressive drive as it comes with the Independent with coil spring at front and Twist beam axle with separate spring and shock absorber at the rear. Its finely adjusted suspension arrangement soaks in all the rough spots and uneven terrain, reducing noise and vibrations. The lightweight steering wheel instils confidence while also making it simple to manoeuvre the SUV around tight curves. However, at lower speeds, the suspension seems a little stiff. You may experience minor vibrations, particularly over speed bumps or uneven roadways. Volkswagen offers the T-Roc with 17-inch alloy wheels and the 215/55 R17 tyre section, with all the wheels aided by disc and both ends. When driving on the highway, Volkswagen's T-Roc feels at home. The SUV's robust chassis and suspension absorb all the bumps and undulations with ease. It remains comfortable even in turns, holding its line nicely with a little body roll.

Interior and Instrument Console of Volkswagen T-Roc

The SUV comes standard with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a 6-speaker sound system from Volkswagen. However, there is no cruise control or wireless charger, T-Roc has an 8-inch touchscreen panel (slightly angled towards the driver) with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connection. The user interface is appealing, and the touchscreen device has a premium feel to it.

Close inspection of the VW Tiguan or its seven-seater variant will reveal parallels in the T-interior. T-Roc has an all-black interior with grey hues on the dashboard and centre console. Volkswagen has resorted to liberal use of hard plastics throughout the cabin, which detracts from the cabin's luxury feel. However, in terms of build quality, the T-Roc is on par with any other Volkswagen vehicle.

2023 T-Roc's upholstery has a three-tone finish, which brightens up the otherwise dull cabin. Its front seats are comfy, and the driver's seat provides a wonderful wide view of the road ahead. The driver's seat is adjustable and the headrests in the T-Roc are well-positioned in the back and should provide enough neck support on extended excursions. The rear seats are suitable for two adults and include conveniences such as an adjustable cup holder in the armrest, a 12V charging plug, and AC vents. While Volkswagen hollowed up the top to provide additional headroom in the rear.

Key Features of Volkswagen T-Roc

2023 Volkswagen T-Roc Key features include Panoramic sunroof, LED Headlamps, R17 Diamond Cut Alloy wheels, LED tail lamps, 2-Zone Air conditioning - Climatronic, Heat insulating windshield, Green heat insulated side & rear windows, Electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Power windows, Automatic headlamp control, Coming home and leaving home function, Electromechanical parking brake, Rear Wash/Wipe with intermittent function, Illuminated sun visors, LED reading lights in front and rear, Drawers under front seats, Rain sensor, KESSY- Keyless entry and drive system, Washer fluid level warning light, Hill start assist, Leather wrapped steering wheel, Multifunction steering wheel, Start stop system with generative braking, Paddle shift, Digital cockpit - Active info display, Diversity antenna, AppConnect, USB interface, 6 speakers, Composition Media infotainment system, Driver and front passenger airbag, Front and rear disc brakes, Electronic Stability Control, Anti Lock braking system, Anti Skid Regulation, Electronic immobilizer, Park Distance Control Front and Rear, LED daytime running lights, Auto Hold, Auto dimming interior rear-view mirror, Rear view camera, Dynamic headlamp range adjustment, Rear fog lamp, Front fog lamp with cornering function, Tyre pressure monitoring system, Front seat belt pre-tensioners, Curtain airbags, Front side airbags, Seat belt warning, ISOFIX-Child seat anchor points and more.

Top Speed and Mileage of Volkswagen T-Roc

2023 Volkswagen T-Roc ARAI claimed mileage is 18.4 km/l, whereas the city mileage is 14.14 km/l and the mileage on the highway is around 19.48 km/l. The top speed of the Volkswagen T-Roc is 205 km/h and can speed up from 0 to 100 km/h in around 8.4 seconds.

Volkswagen T-Roc Colour Options

Volkswagen offers new T-Roc in 6 different colour options - Kurkuma Yellow, Pure White, Ravenna Blue, Indium Grey, Flash Red and Deep Black.

Volkswagen T-Roc Competitors

Jeep Compass, Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian and Hyundai Tucson are the top contenders in the market that rivals the new Volkswagen T-Roc.

Conclusion

If you want a car that delivers on luxury, engine refinement and driving enjoyment, the T-Roc fits the bill. However, if you're looking for a compact SUV with more amenities, greater space and comfort, and a lower price than the T-Roc, you could choose the Hyundai Creta or the Kia Seltos. Those interested in purchasing the T-Roc can contact their local Volkswagen dealer. Comprehensive warranty and service plan back to the CBU brought a vehicle, but we recommend the investigation regarding the availability and pricing of spare parts.