The VW T-Roc, the brand’s best-selling model in Europe, will undergo a complete redesign for its second generation in 2025. The current model, which debuted in 2017, lacked any form of electrification, even after its facelift in 2021. However, the next-gen model will feature a plug-in hybrid system. Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming subcompact SUV:
Design
Credit: CarSpyMedia/Youtube
The VW T-Roc will retain its unmistakably European crossover looks moving to its second generation, but with unique design elements. At the front, the hood will be shorter and won’t meet the upper grille, which is expected to be much slimmer, synchronizing with the all-new Tiguan. The larger lower grille should give the vehicle a more powerful presence.
On the sides, the C-pillars are likely to be swept back in a coupe-like fashion and wider than usual, ensuring the vehicle remains instantly recognizable as a T-Roc. Volkswagen is expected to offer new wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches in size. At the rear, the next-gen T-Roc may feature slimmer, horizontally oriented combination lamps connected by a light bar, along with a steeply raked rear windscreen.
Interior
The next-gen VW T-Roc should feature a more contemporary and technologically advanced interior, along with enhanced space and utility. We’re expecting a flatter dashboard, fresh decor elements, and a new, multi-color mood lighting system that radiates a soft glow. Along with all-new, MIB4-based digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, Volkswagen may bundle a head-up display in the redesigned subcompact SUV.
Specifications
Volkswagen has confirmed that the next-gen T-Roc will be available with plug-in hybrid technology. The company classifies T-Roc, Golf, Tiguan, Passat, and Tayron as core models that deserve plug-in hybrid technology and an electric range of up to 100 km (62 miles).
We will still need combustion engines for a while, but they should be as efficient as possible, which is why the next generation of our core products (including Golf, Tiguan, Passat, Tayron and T-ROC) – all of which are world models – will also be fitted with the latest generation of plug-in hybrid technology, with an electric range of up to 100 kilometers.
Ralf Brandstätter, former CEO, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, in March 2021
New PHEV system
The VW T-Roc should get a new Volkswagen plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a 110 kW (147 hp) 1.5-liter TSI evo2 petrol engine and the 85 kW (114 hp) HEM80evo electric motor integrated into the gearbox housing. A lithium-ion battery pack with an energy storage capacity of around 15 kWh could supply the electric motor.
62-mile WLTP EV mode range
With Volkswagen targeting an EV mode range of up to 100 km (62 miles) from its next-gen PHEVs, the T-Roc PHEV could be among its most eco-friendly internal combustion engine models. The company could equip it with an 11 kW three-phase on-board charger to encourage customers to use it mostly in EV mode due to faster charging (compared to older PHEVs with lower capacity single-phase OBCs).
Driving dynamics
The next-gen VW T-Roc promises to improve its driving dynamics. Volkswagen is developing a new control chassis technology and could offer it in the next-gen T-Roc. When the company demonstrated its new high-tech chassis in an Arteon Shooting Brake in November 2021, the car was very composed, showing no pitching. The new control chassis offers comfortable driving, which could also be helpful to make performance models like the T-Roc R more practical for public roads.
Price & Release Date
The VW T-Roc plug-in hybrid’s prices could start at around EUR 35,000 (USD 38,442) in Germany, where we expect its launch to take place in mid-2025.
Featured Image Source: Volkswagen Group
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
