Written by Tom WiltshirePublished: 14 June 2024Updated: 14 June 2024
- Three petrol engines, two diesels
- No electric or hybrid options
- High-performance T-Roc R packs 300hp
Petrol engines
The VW T-Roc’s core engine range includes 1.0-, 1.5- and 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol units. Things kick off with the 115hp 1.0 TSI, an engine used extensively across the VW Group empire. Its three-cylinder soundtrack is rather charming, and it has just enough poke for pottering, but it feels a bit weedy on motorways.
The 150hp 1.5 TSI is a better bet. It serves up considerably punchier performance than the 1.0-litre, and it’s exceptionally smooth and quiet. It’s not really any less efficient in the real world, either, thanks to a clever ‘two-cylinder mode’ which shuts down half the engine when only a little power is needed. A light, slick six-speed manual gearbox is bolted to the engine as standard, a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch ‘box is available as an option.
At the top of the range is the 190hp 2.0 TSI. It’s appreciably quicker than the 1.5-litre and just as refined, but there’s a hefty penalty to pay at the pumps for the extra power. The seven-speed DSG gearbox is fitted as standard, as is 4Motion four-wheel-drive. On top of that, there’s the 300hp, T-Roc R, which we’ve reviewed separately.
Earlier in its life, the T-Roc was also available with 1.2- and 1.4-litre TSI petrol engines, offering between 110hp and 150hp.
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Diesel engines
It’s becoming increasingly rare for an SUV of the T-Roc’s size to be offered with a diesel engine – we rate it as one of the best diesel SUVs on the market. It’s currently available with VW’s long-serving 2.0 TDI unit with 115hp or 150hp – a 115hp 1.6 TDI was previously available, as well.
The 115hp option offers perfectly adequate performance with stellar fuel economy. It’s not exactly a quiet engine when accelerating, but it settles into the background at a cruise. A six-speed manual is your only gearbox option.
If you can stretch to it, the 150hp engine is the one to go for. Performance is stronger and more relaxed than the 115hp version, and there’s not a lot of difference in economy and emissions. You can choose between manual or DSG automatic gearboxes; 4Motion four-wheel-drive is also available in combination with the DSG.
What’s it like to drive?
- Precise steering
- Good body control
- Very easy to drive
The Volkswagen T-Roc is a remarkably easy car to drive. The steering is light yet direct – you never doubt the car’s going where you pointed it. You have a good view out and the compact dimensions make it easy to squeeze through gaps. The suspension is firm enough to ensure a minimum of bodyroll yet compliant enough to provide a smooth ride.
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Press on at higher speeds and the steering becomes a little heavier to give you a better feeling of connection to the car, there’s plenty of grip, body control over bumps is excellent. The lower-powered engines need working quite hard to maintain progress; the manual gearbox allows you to snatch a quick gear change, the DSG automatic can be a bit slow-witted.
Add that lot together and the T-Roc is a very safe, secure and relaxing car to drive whatever the road, and whatever mood your in. It’s not quite as engaging and enjoyable as the Ford Kuga, but you’ll have more fun than you would in a Vauxhall Grandland.
