You may have heard of Volkswagen’s plans to produce only electric vehicles by 2033. The 2025 T-Roc brings that vision closer, as it likely marks the end of Volkswagen’s gas-powered cars, paving the way for an all-electric era. Following a successful 2024 model (Europe’s third-best-seller in 2023), the German automaker seems to have found a winning formula and chose to stick to it for the 2025 T-Roc.
But even better, the second-generation T-Roc features upgrades and adjustments from design to drive that significantly improve its performance. Although the new T-Roc will not have an open-top Cabriolet variant, it has enough exciting updates to be a fans’ favorite in the compact SUV category. Here’s everything that makes the 2025 Volkswagen T-Roc tick.
Familiar Style with A Modern Tweak
The 2025 T-Roc inherits a few styling elements from the Volkswagen Tiguan and could pass as a prettier cousin of the Audi Q2. However, it stands out with a stunning front fascia that flaunts a redesigned hexagonal grille, new fog lamps, and reshaped IQ LED headlights. The side profile gets a sportier appearance, thanks to the sharp lines and sloping roofline, while the tailgate takes a more upright angle than older models.
At 167.2 and 62.4 inches in length and height, the T-Roc is about the size of a Ford Puma and stands on standard 18-inch wheels, with an option to upgrade to 19 inches. The improved side lines and sculpted hood combine to improve airflow and give the SUV a commanding presence. Plus, Volkswagen maintains the two-tone paint color common with T-Roc, providing a range of options across trims.
Powertrain Options to Match Your Lifestyle
The T-Roc is ready to go with you wherever the road leads. City dweller, long-distance commuter, or adventure-seeker – there are even electrified engine options to suit you in any driving situation. Buyers can choose from any 1.0-liter, 1.5-liter, and 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged engines that deliver up to 148 hp. Those who prefer the combination of gas and electric power can opt for plug-in hybrid powertrains, capable of about 268 hp, for spirited driving on long rides.
The new model shares the same MQB Evo platform as Audi3 and VW Golf. It is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission system for the top R trim. Front-wheel drive is the standard setup, but users can get all-wheel drive alternatives for enhanced control in all weather conditions. The T-Roc has considerable fuel efficiency (up to 60mpg on a 2.0-liter diesel engine) for everyday use, but don’t expect that much on the fast R-Line model equipped with a 250 hp AWD drivetrain. Regarding speed, we expect the top trim levels to reach a top speed of 160 mph and go from 0 – 60 mph in less than 8 seconds.
Behind the wheel, the 2025 model boasts a comfier ride than many others in the compact SUV class. Thanks to its responsive handling, it conquers off-road surfaces almost as smoothly as it navigates sharp bends with minimal body leans. But that’s not its strongest point yet – it is most comfortable cruising through cities and devouring highway miles.
A Touched-Up Cabin
The T-Roc redesign continues to the interior, where quality finishing combines with a fully digital cockpit to create a luxurious ambiance. All five ergonomic seats have heating, ventilation, and adjustable leg support for extra comfort during long rides. Although not much has changed in the multifunctional steering wheel design, it now packs more intuitive controls that put the driver in command of the vehicle and the infotainment system without taking their eyes off the road.
To further enhance the interior, Volkswagen added customizable ambient lights that transform the T-Roc cabin into a cozy retreat. Plus, six high-performance BeatsAudio speakers treat passengers to a quality audio experience. Remarkably, the T-Roc’s innovative upgrades come without compromise on passenger space. For a compact SUV, it feels airy, thanks to the panoramic sunroof and well-spaced high seats for both front and back occupants. It comfortably seats five passengers and boasts up to 45.6 cubic feet of cargo space when fully expanded. However, several similarly priced compact SUVs offer more generous cargo room.
Enough Tech to Keep You Connected
The T-Roc infotainment system comprises an 8-inch intuitive display. For added luxury, Style, and R-Line trim owners can elevate their experience with the Digital Cockpit Pro, which features an expansive 10.25-inch display and extra customizable settings. All trims are compatible with Mirror Link, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. For added convenience, users can sync their smartphones with the optional wireless App-Connect feature.
Safety and driver-assist additions include the standard rear-view camera, parking sensors, and Intelligent Light. Top trims Style and R-Line also come with Dual Climate Zone Control and Front Emergency Braking systems.
What T-Roc Trims Are Available?
The 2025 T-Roc has four trim levels: Life, Style, R-Line, and Black Edition. The entry-level Life trim keeps costs down, focusing on essential features for everyday practicality, while each successive trim reveals a wide range of exciting customization options for more power output and a luxury feel. Above all, the hybrid AWD R-Line delivers on performance, and the new Black Edition model steals the show with its stunning design, including bold alloy wheels, improved lights, and tinted rear mirrors.
2025 T-Roc and Competition
Expected to cost between $35,000 and $60,000, the new-gen VW model is entering a crowded market, where rivals like the Volvo XC40 and Mazda Chevy Blazer offer lower price tags. But what sets the 2025 T-Roc apart is its mix of options that suit different budgets and preferences. The new VW addition blends good looks with sportiness, performance, and practicality, so choosing it over less sophisticated rivals wouldn’t be difficult.
Probably the last of Volkswagen’s gas-guzzlers, the new T-Roc will arrive later in 2024 and go on sale in early 2025. However, it won’t be available in the US market, so American buyers will need to consider alternatives like the Nissan Kicks or the VW Taos for a similar blend of style and performance.
