Volkswagen T-Roc R-Line – luxury looker

VOLKSWAGEN has sold more than two million T-Rocs since the compact SUV was launched back in 2017, helping create a whole new area of the UK new car market.

And the new second generation T-Roc, already named Best Small SUV at the 2026 What Car? Awards, is making waves in its own right courtesy of sharper looks, extra tech and a more upmarket appeal.

While the original T-Roc was hardly an ugly car, the new one has bags more presence with its sporty bumpers, smart 18-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails and full-width front lights. It could almost be mistaken for a hot hatch.

Powertrain options currently comprise two mild hybrid turbocharged petrol engines, with outputs of 116PS and 150PS, with two new full hybrids to follow.

Our tested T-Roc model, in top tier R-Line trim, was the more powerful of the two mild hybrid units, with a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox sending power to the front wheels.

Its acceleration figure of 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds and top speed of 132mph may not trouble a sports car but offer more than enough punch for everyday motoring.

In fact the mild-hybrid system is especially useful around town, providing a little extra assistance when pulling away and allowing the engine to shut down when conditions permit.

The result is a T-Roc that feels smooth and pleasantly effortless as well as being pretty quiet at cruising speeds.

It’s also an easy and relaxing car to drive with its accurate steering and reassuring body control, even if it is one that prefers to get you there comfortably rather than put a smile on your face.

Move inside and the cabin looks modern and feels solid, with high quality to the touch and R-Line sports seats and flat-bottomed steering wheel to set the tone.

A large 12.9-inch infotainment screen dominates the dashboard and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display faces the driver.

But, as is the case with so many new cars, too much is controlled through the touchscreen. It means adjusting the temperature or a seat heater requires a menu dive whereas a physical dial would be safer and less irritating.

Space is fine rather than class-leading with adequate head and legroom all round, though it’s a squeeze for three across the back, and the boot is family-sized at 475 litres which extends to a maximum of 1,534 litres with the seats folded. You also get a twin-level false floor.

R-Line specification also brings heated front seats, sports-comfort seats, sat nav, driving-profile selection and a raft of driver assistance technology including features previously confined to cars from the class above like the latest Park Assist Pro system.

And the 1.5 eTSI can tow up to 1,500kg braked, which will appeal to buyers who want genuine versatility rather than simply an elevated driving position.

There’s certainly a lot to like about the latest T-Roc, not least how beautifully engineered the car is. It’s also economical and a far better prospect than its predecessor.

But at £38,935, and that’s before you add on optional extras like the electric tailgate at £340, Canary Yellow paint with Soul Black upholstery (£435) plus Tech (£950) and Parking (£135) packs included on the tested model, it isn’t the best value in its class by some distance.

The badge, the finish and resale values go a long way, but it’s hard to avoid the feeling you’re paying a premium for the VW name.

For that sort of cash, a Skoda Kodiaq or full hybrid rival makes a strong counter-argument.