Family road test review of 2021 model VW T-Roc

Here’s five things the family has learned about the 2021 model VW T-Roc compact SUV.

The 2021 model Volkswagen T-Roc Style.

Our family has been behind the wheel of the Volkswagen T-Roc for the past two months, here’s five things we have learned about the compact SUV.

Chips are down, but not here

Vehicle production has slowed for many reasons around the world, and among them is the shortage of semiconductors. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, the world’s biggest manufacturer of sophisticated chips, has been hit hard by Covid-19, natural disasters, trade tensions as well as supply chain issues, and can’t keep up with demand. The chips are used for a raft of latest technologies, like keyless entry, infotainment, automatic braking systems and various engine controls. Volkswagen has been impacted by the shortage, but the T-Roc is among those with secure supply. The same can’t be said for the Golf, some Tiguan models or the Touareg.

Prices for the 2021 Volkswagen T-Roc Style start from less than $40,000 drive-away.

Between a Roc and a bargain place

Priced at the upper end of the small SUV spectrum, this Volkswagen remains a popular choice. During May, the T-Roc ranked behind the MG ZS, Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos and Mitsubishi ASX in national sales, but the VW sits at the posh end of town. Currently there are drive-away deals on the 110TSI Style at $38,280, and $45,475 for the more powerful 140TSI Sport. Many of the smaller SUVs are selling on price alone, and those who not only like the kudos of a European badge but also on-road prowess will find value in the T-Roc.

Inside the Volkswagen T-Roc 110TSI Style with the luxury package that includes heated seats, a panoramic sunroof and leather trim for $3800.

Premium in more ways than one

Over more than 3600km, the T-Roc has averaged 7.5L/100km according to the on-board trip computer. That’s nearly one litre more than the official figure from VW, but the compact SUV has been undertaking a lot of smaller trips through hilly terrain. Some highway trips have seen the average consumption dip into the 5.0L/100km vicinity. Being a turbocharged four-cylinder engine it does require premium unleaded. Return to the VW dealership for servicing maintenance and savings can be made via the five-year care plan. For $1900 you get five services at annual or 15,000km intervals – that’s a saving of $768 compared to if you pay as you go.

Average fuel consumption in the VW T-Roc has been 7.5L/100km over more than 3600km.

At your service

One advantage of servicing with Volkswagen is continued registration of roadside assistance. During a business trip last month when the bride was flying solo, the T-Roc picked up a screw in one of the tyres and within an hour of calling the assistance number, the space-saver spare was fitted.

Easy on the eye

While based on the popular Golf hatch, the T-Roc boasts extra flair. The contrasting gloss black roof is standard and available with white or red external hues. For $600 more you can inject some extra personality and choose from metallic options of yellow, blue, orange, silver or grey. With 445 litres of boot space and a more spacious cabin than the Golf, it also ticks the functionality boxes for taller passengers, front and back. The rear seats also have a 60-40 fold function, useful for sporting equipment and other awkward-size cargo.