New VW T-Roc 2025 (Second Generation) – Everything You Need to Know

The Volkswagen T-Roc has been one of VW’s most successful compact SUVs since its debut in 2017. Positioned between the smaller T-Cross and the larger Tiguan, the T-Roc quickly became a hit thanks to its sharp design, fun driving dynamics, and everyday practicality. But while sales were strong, one criticism stuck with the first-gen model: cheap-feeling interiors that didn’t quite live up to Volkswagen’s premium reputation.

Now, for 2025, the second-generation VW T-Roc has officially been revealed in Munich. VW promises this isn’t just a facelift—it’s a major evolution that improves interior quality, updates styling, introduces more technology, and even adds new powertrain options, including full hybrids. With rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Sportage, Peugeot 3008, and Toyota C-HR raising the bar in the compact SUV segment, can the new T-Roc reclaim its spot as the class leader?

Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about the all-new 2025 VW T-Roc.

Exterior Design – Sharper, More Premium, More Aerodynamic

VW has taken an “evolution, not revolution” approach with the T-Roc’s styling. At first glance, it still looks unmistakably like a T-Roc, but the details reveal a sharper, sportier, and more modern design.

• Front Fascia: The new T-Roc gets slimmer headlights, a redesigned grille, and a full-width LED light bar (available on higher trims). The look aligns it more closely with VW’s latest lineup, including the Tiguan and ID.7.
• Wheels: Alloy wheel sizes now go up to 20 inches (previously 19 inches), giving the SUV a more commanding stance.
• Hockey Stick Design: A new silver trim piece runs from the A-pillar to the D-pillar, nicknamed the “hockey stick,” emphasizing the coupe-inspired roofline.
• Aerodynamics: The drag coefficient is now 10% better than before, thanks to subtle tweaks in body design. This means improved fuel efficiency and refinement at speed.
• Rear Styling: Like the front, the rear also gets a light bar (standard only on higher trims), plus sleeker taillights for a more futuristic appeal.

👉 Verdict on design: The T-Roc now looks more premium and dynamic, standing out better against stylish rivals like the Toyota C-HR.

Dimensions & Practicality – Bigger and Better

Even though the T-Roc still rides on VW’s MQB platform, it’s an updated version shared with the Tiguan and Tayron.

Key Changes:

• Length: Longer than the outgoing T-Roc.
• Width & Height: Both increased slightly.
• Wheelbase: Now 122mm longer → more rear legroom.
• Boot Space: Now 465 liters (20 liters more than before).

VW says the added size makes the T-Roc a true step up from the smaller T-Cross while still slotting below the Tiguan.

Boot Practicality:

• Height-adjustable boot floor.
• Virtually no loading lip in its highest setting.
• Underfloor storage for extra practicality.
• Rear seats split 40:20:40 (though technically the middle is a ski hatch).

👉 Real-world use: Expect space for 7 carry-on suitcases (same as before, but the added liters improve usability).

Interior & Comfort – Big Improvements Where It Matters

One of the biggest criticisms of the first-gen T-Roc was its interior quality. Hard plastics everywhere left customers disappointed. VW admitted this openly and promised big improvements for Gen-2—and thankfully, they’ve delivered.

Key Highlights:

• Soft-Touch Materials: Dashboard and touchpoints now feature premium soft-touch finishes even in base trims.
• Infotainment:
  • 10-inch digital driver’s display (standard, even on base trims).
  • 12.4-inch central infotainment on higher trims.
  • Split-screen design: shortcuts at the top, climate controls at the bottom.
  • Permanent backlit sliders for volume and temperature.
• Physical Controls Return: Unlike other VWs that got rid of buttons, the T-Roc keeps physical steering wheel controls. Huge win for usability.
• Gear Selector: Moved to the steering column, freeing up more center console storage.
• Wireless Charging & Storage: Improved practicality with larger compartments.
• Easter Eggs: Fun design details like “swimming lanes” graphics in the air vents.

Cabin Space:

• Rear passengers benefit most from the longer wheelbase.
• Adults up to 177cm (5’10”) fit comfortably. Taller passengers may brush the roof lining, especially with the panoramic sunroof.
• ISOFIX mounts included, though the transmission tunnel makes middle-seat comfort tricky.

👉 Overall: A huge leap forward. It’s not Audi-level luxury, but for its class, the T-Roc now feels properly premium.

Engines & Performance – Familiar at First, Big Changes Ahead

At launch, the new T-Roc comes with two mild-hybrid petrol engines already familiar from other VW models:

• 1.5 TSI eTSI 116 hp
• 1.5 TSI eTSI 150 hp

Both are front-wheel drive and paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

The Big News: Full Hybrid Coming

For the first time, VW will introduce a full hybrid powertrain in the T-Roc lineup (expected in 2026).

• Combines a petrol engine, small battery, and electric motor.
• Capable of short bursts of pure-electric driving.
• Improved fuel economy for city driving.
• Important for markets where EV adoption is slower.

Future Variants:

• 2.0L Petrol with AWD → for performance and traction.
• T-Roc R (2027): High-performance model, expected to borrow the 328 hp 2.0L turbo from the Golf R.

No Options For:

• Diesel
• Plug-in hybrid
• Full EV
• Manual gearbox

👉 Driving impressions will have to wait, but expect balanced, comfortable performance typical of VW’s MQB cars.

Ride & Handling

While we haven’t driven the T-Roc yet, the 10% improvement in aerodynamics and longer wheelbase suggest:

• Better stability at highway speeds.
• Slightly more comfort over bumps.
• Easier handling balance between city and highway.

We’ll update once full test drives are available.

Trims & Equipment

The new VW T-Roc will be offered in four trims:

1. T-Roc (base)
2. Life
3. Style
4. R-Line (range-topping)

Expect standard kit like LED headlights, digital driver’s display, and improved infotainment on all trims, with luxury extras reserved for Style & R-Line.

Safety & Driver Assistance

VW is expected to load the new T-Roc with:

• Multiple airbags
• ISOFIX mounts
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Automatic emergency braking

Crash-test ratings (Euro NCAP) will be confirmed later, but given VW’s track record, expect 5 stars.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Much better interior quality.
• More tech-friendly, with better infotainment.
• Larger dimensions & boot space.
• Full hybrid on the way.
• Keeps physical controls!

❌ Cons:

• No EV or plug-in option.
• Rear headroom still tight for tall passengers.
• Price expected to rise beyond £30,000.
• Middle rear seat not very comfortable.

Competitor Comparison

👉 VW aims to balance premium quality + practicality where rivals either focus on style (C-HR) or electrification (Kona).

Verdict – Should You Wait for It?

The new 2025 VW T-Roc feels like VW listened carefully to customer complaints. The interior finally feels worthy of the badge, the design is sharper, and the addition of a full hybrid option makes it future-ready without alienating buyers still hesitant about EVs.

If you loved the first-gen T-Roc but wanted something more premium inside, this second generation is a massive step forward. Pricing will be key—if VW keeps it competitive against rivals like the Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Kona, the T-Roc could once again become one of the best small SUVs in its class.

Author Section:
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