The new T-Roc has finally arrived, bringing some major upgrades. Volkswagen’s best-selling SUV will be available as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) for the first time, but there’s more under the hood.
Volkswagen’s best-selling SUV goes hybrid: 2026 T-Roc
Since launching the T-Roc in 2017, VW’s crossover SUV has attracted over two million buyers. Nearly 300,000 drivers in Europe opted for the compact all-rounder last year alone.
Although it’s already Volkswagen’s best-selling SUV, the second-generation T-Roc is an improvement in nearly every way possible.
Volkswagen unveiled the new T-Roc for the first time on Wednesday, showcasing a sleek new design, a revamped interior, and a unique new hybrid powertrain.
The new model retains the classic T-Roc DNA, with its coupe-like silhouette, but Volkswagen has added several new elements to help it stand out from the crowd.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the updated front-end design, similar to VW’s other updated vehicles, featuring all-new LED headlights. The rear receives an added full-length LED light bar with an illuminated Volkswagen logo.
The interior has been “significantly improved,” according to VW. It pulls several features from the larger Tiguan and Tayron models, including driving controls and various profile options.
A newly added feature, which VW claims is also first in its class, is an optional head-up display (HUD) that displays your driving speed, navigation, and more directly on the windshield ahead of you.
The new T-Roc is slightly longer, gaining an additional 12 cm in length compared to its predecessor. At 4,373 mm in length, the 2026 T-Roc is about the size of the Toyota C-HR and Kia Niro. It also boasts 30% more rear cargo space than its predecessor, with up to 475 liters.
Following the updated Tiguan and Tayron, the new T-Roc is the third VW SUV based on its MQB Evo architecture. For the first time, the T-Roc will be equipped with advanced safety systems, including Park Assist Pro.
The new T-Roc will initially be available with two 1.5 L turbocharged mild hybrid powertrains, followed by two full hybrid drive systems. The HEV models will debut on Volkswagen’s advanced new hybrid platform, which will utilize a small electric motor and a gas engine, similar to what Toyota uses.
Pre-orders for the new T-Roc will open in Germany on August 28 with an official market launch scheduled for November. Prices start at 30,845 euros ($35,500) for the 1.5 eTSI base model.
Volkswagen is keeping most details of its new hybrid system secret for now. However, a VW engineer told Autocar it will offer “more than a few metres” of electric range.
CEO Thomas Schäfer added, “The platform can do it all. We can introduce it as we like.” The Golf, Passat, Tiguan, and Tayron are available with PHEVs or mild hybrids. Now, the T-Roc will be offered as an HEV. When will we see the all-electric models? Likely closer to the end of the decade, as Volkswagen plans to use hybrids as a bridge to EVs.
How do you feel about the new T-Roc? Do you like the updated style? I have to say, I’m a fan.
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