Development has begun for the all-new 2025 Volkswagen T-Roc. This all-new generation of the popular German crossover will debut in 2024, bringing new underpinnings and engines, including plug-in hybrids. It will also be completely redesigned both inside and out.
A test prototype for the Mk2 T-Roc has recently been spotted in Europe. It takes the form of a lifted Golf 8, which confirms the close relationship between the two cars will continue. Many automakers have developed such lifted hatchbacks as a way to diversify their portfolios, and as a result, the T-Roc competes with models like the Mazda CX-30, Cupra Formentor, and Kia Xceed.
The test prototype also confirms that the T-Roc will be based on the same platform as the Golf 8, which is the MQB Evo. This is an updated version of the “modular toolkit” which came out a decade ago. It underpins crossovers, sedans, and large SUVs. Even the Ford Tourneo van is based on it.
Volkswagen has a number of other crossovers roughly this size: T-Cross, Taigo, and Taos. But the T-Roc has the best engineering, the biggest engines and a reputation of being “German.” It’s usually the one with available 4Motion AWD and an independent rear suspension.
2025 Volkswagen T-Roc engines
VW CEO Thomas Schäfer has already confirmed that the 2025 VW T-Roc will be the last all-new Volkswagen developed with internal combustion engines. The Golf, Passat, and other models are going electric.
Within the first year, the T-Roc will be available with several engines, including a mild hybrid, 2.0 TSI, 2.0 TDI, and eHybrid PHEV. The mild-hybrid 1.5 eTSI with 148 hp (150 PS) will be the most common. The 1.5 TSI Evo engine will also power the eHybrid model, which will produce 201 hp (204 PS).
The new T-Roc will also receive an upgraded 2.0 TSI rated at 201 hp (204 PS) instead of the previous 190 PS. Finally, the 2.0 TDI will be rated at 148 hp (150 PS) and 197 hp (200 PS).
T-Roc GTE and T-Roc R? Volkswagen has developed two powertrains that are suitable for performance models. The T-Roc R will be upgraded from its current engine to the new 2.0 TSI which produces 316 hp (320 PS). This car with also be available with the new 08E Torque Splitting Rear Differential featured in the new MK8 Golf R, which allows “Drift Mode.”
Unfortunately, the 2026 T-Roc R will be expensive. With a few options, it will retail for around €60,000 ($65,000 in Germany), about as much as a Mercedes E-Class. Fortunately, there will be a much more economical performance solution, the T-Roc GTE. It will have some serious tax benefits, as well as a decent performance from a 1.5 TSI plug-in hybrid system producing 268 hp (272 PS). Its 18.5 kWh battery will also provide almost 100 km (62 miles) of EV range.
2025 VW T-Roc exterior and interior design
The 2025 T-Roc is still in the early stages of development, but we believe it will feature a much bolder design, which is now characteristic of the crossover segment. As previewed by these renderings from MV Auto, it will have a taller grille with stacked LED projectors called IQ.LIGHT HD and a wrap-around taillight unit.
Inside, many changes are expected. Like the Tiguan, the 2025 T-Roc will feature a main 15-inch infotainment screen in addition to the digital dashboard. The steering wheel will have buttons, thankfully, and the shifter for the 7-speed DSG auto will move to the steering column. Prices for the 2025 VW T-Roc will jump to around €30,000 at launch in Germany due to the increase in standard equipment and lack of 1.0 TSI engines.
