With the T-Roc, VW 2017 not only has the Golf for the rough, but also an inside at the same time unusually tough model launched. A facelift now ensures a softer core.
When it was launched in 2017, the VWs Compact SUV T-Roc for a turning point: The interior soft surfaces that are otherwise common in models of the group in this class have been dispensed with. Even the visible and tangible areas of the cockpit were made of hard plastic. However, this in no way deterred customers: in a good four years, more than 1 million T-Rocs have been sold. In October 2021 he even conquered the top of the German sales charts. This success story could be continued with an upcoming facelift. A number of innovations have been made in detail. Inside there is also a return to old VW virtues.
New front
Externally, however, the T-Roc remains completely the same, because the actual sheet metal cover was spared from the measures. In contrast, the front and rear aprons, known in the automotive world as the soft parts of the body, have been modified and thus ensure a fresh and more modern look. Instead, there is a new grille design and modified lights. In the future, LED technology will be installed in the main headlights from the basic equipment onwards.
In addition, the daytime running lights are now housed in the headlight units, which also signal the turn request from here. There are wiper indicators for the rear lights, and the brake light doesn't just get brighter, it also changes the light segments at the same time, which also gives an animated impression of the modified graphics. Those who invest more in lighting also receive LED matrix headlights. This option is also combined with a continuous LED light strip between the headlights, which runs in the middle of the radiator grille and gives the VW logo more visual support.
There is also a choice of new colors and the new R-Line equipment line for the T-Roc. The latter offers a muscle look derived from the T-Roc as well as the R daytime running lights consisting of three rectangles in the lower part of the front apron. A new black style package is also available for the Style, R-Line and R.
A lot has also happened in the cockpit of the T-Roc. The analog instrument cluster, which was previously available, has finally had its day. Even with the basic version, driving-relevant information is output digitally in 8-inch format. For reasons of space, navigation instructions are shown here with arrow symbols, while the alternative 10,25-inch cockpit display shows the map overview of the wayfinder as a detailed graphic. A touchscreen for the infotainment system is also standard.
In its basic format, it is 6,5 inches tall, and anyone who orders the top infotainment device “Discover Pro” looks at a free-standing 9,2 inch touchscreen. Instead of being integrated, it is now placed on the dashboard, and the air vents that were previously positioned on the side have moved under the screen. The gear knob has been redesigned, and an inductive charging cradle for smartphones is also available. VW has expanded the functions and options with regard to online services and smartphone connectivity.
The T-Roc becomes T-Soft inside
In future, the T-Roc will offer the "Climatronic Touch" digital climate control unit known from the Golf 8, which relies on physical switches in favor of touch-sensitive surfaces specially illuminated in the T-Roc. Capacitive surfaces can also be found in the new multifunction steering wheel, which in the R is a sports steering wheel with a new R button.
Much more important in the T-Roc cockpit, however, is upgrading with soft-touch surfaces. Over a large area, a soft layer on the top of the dashboard creates more haptic value, and soft door inserts are now standard. In the case of the basic version, they are made of fabric, in the higher-quality versions, a soft synthetic leather with decorative stitching is used.
VW has also expanded its range of comfort and assistance systems. New are Travel Assist, Side Assist, the predictive distance cruise control pACC as well as a forward parking assistant. Anyone who orders an electric tailgate can in future also open it with a foot gesture, while the key can remain in their pocket.
Diesel and R remains
There are no innovations in the drives of the T-Roc. A three-cylinder petrol engine with 81 kW / 110 PS and the 1,5- and 2,0-liter TSI with 110 kW / 150 PS and 140 kW / 190 PS, respectively, are also available. As before, the two-liter petrol engine in the sporty R variant has an output of 221 kW / 300 PS. Alternatively, two diesels with 85 kW / 115 PS or 110 kW / 150 PS are also available. The previous diesel with 140 kW / 190 PS is no longer available.
The normal T-Roc as well as the sports version R and the convertible are equally affected by the innovations. All three variants will gradually be launched on the market in the first quarter of 2022. The prices for the lifted T-Roc should start at around 23.500 euros for the nameless base, which is around 900 euros above the previous base price. Alternatively, the equipment levels Life, Style and R-
