2026 VW T-Roc Specs, Price, and Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

2026 VW T-Roc Specs, Price, and Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

Since the retirement of the Beetle, the Golf has reigned as Volkswagen’s sales champion in Europe. But that crown is slipping dethroned not by a hatchback, but by its crossover sibling: the T-Roc.

With over 2 million units sold since its 2017 debut, the T-Roc has become a European favorite. And now, the second-generation model has arrived bigger, sleeker, and more tech-focused than ever, slotting between the T-Cross and Tiguan in VW’s growing SUV lineup.

This isn’t just an update. It’s a statement: SUVs have won.

Built on the familiar MQB platform, the new T-Roc is 4.8 inches (122 mm) longer than before, now measuring 172.1 inches (4,373 mm). Much of that extra length goes to a longer wheelbase (103.5 in / 2,631 mm) up 1.1 inches (28 mm) which translates into improved rear legroom, a key upgrade for families.

Despite the growth, VW kept styling conservative. The design evolution is subtle:

• Front and rear light bars for a modern look
• Illuminated VW badge on the grille
• Fake exhaust tips (large, chrome-trimmed)
• Glossy black trim dominating the lower body

Even the R-Line trim shown here avoids boldness, though the oddly placed "R" logo on the front bumper stands out like a misplaced tattoo.

Inside, the T-Roc follows VW’s current trend: screens everywhere, buttons nowhere.

The outgoing model’s physical climate controls are gone. In their place: a 10.4-inch or 12.9-inch infotainment display, depending on trim, with most HVAC functions buried in menus.

2026 VW T-Roc Specs, Price, and Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

A small mercy? The rotary touch dial from the Tiguan returns, nestled between the front seats a rare tactile control in an increasingly touch-dependent cabin.

VW admits the lack of physical buttons is unpopular, and promises to bring back knobs for essential functions in future models. But development on this T-Roc wrapped up too early so for now, you’ll still battle touch sliders and glare-prone glass screens.

And yes the gear lever is gone. Replaced by a column-mounted shifter, made possible by the removal of the manual transmission. Every second-gen T-Roc comes with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic no exceptions.

At launch, engine choices are limited:

- 1.5L mild-hybrid turbo-four, offered in two states of tune:

• 114 hp (base)
• 148 hp (higher trims)

- Both send power to front wheels only via the 7-speed DSG

More options are coming:

• Two all-new hybrid powertrains “developed from scratch” also FWD-only
• 4Motion all-wheel drive will be available with a 2.0L turbo-four, with or without mild-hybrid tech

No fully electric T-Roc is planned at least for now. VW seems content letting the ID.4 handle the EV role.

2026 VW T-Roc Specs, Price, and Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

The new T-Roc gains 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) of cargo space, now offering 16.4 cu ft (465 liters) behind the rear seats a modest but welcome improvement.

Sustainability gets a spotlight: 40 kg (88 lbs) of recycled plastics are used inside about one-fifth of all interior plastic components. That makes the T-Roc Volkswagen’s first model with such a high recycled material share, aligning with the brand’s push toward circular manufacturing.

Aerodynamics improve too, with a drag coefficient of 0.29 down 10% from the previous model helping boost efficiency.

Wheel sizes now go up to 20 inches (from 19), giving buyers more style though likely at the cost of ride comfort.

While the base model is family-focused, excitement is on the way.

2026 VW T-Roc Specs, Price, and Release Date: Everything You Need to Know

The T-Roc R is confirmed for launch in early 2027, powered by the 2.0L EA888 turbo-four the same engine found in the Golf R. While the hot hatch may soon get a five-cylinder special edition, the T-Roc R will stick with VW’s proven four-pot, tuned for maximum punch and AWD grip.

Expect over 300 horsepower, 4Motion, sport suspension, and aggressive styling turning the crossover into a true performance machine.

As expected, the new T-Roc won’t come to the United States. The Taos remains VW’s smallest SUV in North America.

But in Europe? The T-Roc is a sales juggernaut. In the first seven months of 2025, it outsold the Golf, with 127,309 registrations vs. 119,959 proof that even traditional hatchback strongholds are falling to SUV appeal.

And yes the T-Roc Cabriolet lives on. The folding-top crossover will continue until 2027, defying logic and outselling both the MX-5 Miata and BMW Z4 in Europe last year.

It’s odd, impractical, and utterly charming. Just like the T-Roc itself.

Read also: 2025 Audi Q3 Sportback Review: MPG, Cargo Space, Interior, and Pricing