As an open SUV, the new Volkswagen T-Roc convertible takes over from the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, which raised eyebrows a few years ago and disappeared from the scene again in 2019. We will find out whether Volkswagen is doing well to further develop the remarkable concept.
You could see the Volkswagen T-Roc as a spiritual successor to the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, although the Volkswagen naturally operates in a completely different segment. There are many similarities in appearance. Both open-plan SUVs have a fairly straight-lined body and a short butt dictated by the hatchback shape of the closed base, so a somewhat bathtub-like profile characterizes both. That also means that in both cases the flap is very short, a fact that the manufacturers camouflage by mounting a striking spoiler on the rear deck as standard. Even the hood construction is practically identical, with the front part of the hood in both cases functioning as a cover in the open position. At the same time, the Evoque is noticeably larger and above all higher than the T-Cross, which operates nicely between regular models and real SUVs in terms of height. The fact that the T-Roc looks more stretched is also because it actually is compared to the closed T-Roc. Front and rear axles are 4 centimeters further apart than their brother, while the convertible version of course had to hand in the rear doors.
SpaciousOpen T-Roc is much less practical than its hatchback sibling – which is obvious. On the other hand: with an always available luggage space of 280 liters and a rear seat that can accommodate two adults with a little compromise, the car is downright spacious by convertible terms. In addition, the sofa can be folded down on the Volkswagen. The T-Roc is excellent when driving open, whereby the occupants are kept well out of the wind by the relatively large windows and possibly a windshield. With the hood closed, more noise penetrates from the outside than in the closed equivalent, but that does not produce an excess of noise. The rear view is poor due to the high butt, wide C-pillar and small rear window. Long live parking sensors and reversing cameras. The T-Roc feels a lot less like an SUV behind the wheel, especially because the seating position is a lot lower. The more upright screen of the Volkswagen is less affected by the light and reacts very quickly to touch. The R-Line will also receive a comprehensive standard digital instrumentation with. The German is modern, but here and there a bit cheaply finished. The build quality is nothing wrong, but the materials can be really better. The very business-like T-Roc dashboard is made entirely of rock-hard plastics, which is extra noticeable due to the abundance of sunlight in the convertible version.
Roof control
In fact, the only visible difference from a closed T-Roc is the convertible’s roof control, which is more or less hidden under the armrest. This not only guarantees uncomfortable operation, but also that the eyes have to be taken off the road to find the button. Fortunately moves the roof itself very quickly, because in ten seconds you drive into the open. This is possible up to 30 km / h, so it is not a disaster if the traffic light turns green earlier than hoped. Furthermore, the roof can also be opened and closed with the key. The hood construction and the necessary reinforcements mean that convertibles are invariably heavier than their closed model mates. With the T-Roc, this is an extra 190 kg and the total comes to 1,440 kg. In terms of driving, the topless T-Roc is a typical Volkswagen. This means that the car walks a middle way in terms of both steering and chassis that appeals to a wide audience, but is therefore certainly not exciting. In this case too, the fun comes from the open roof, because that ensures that a dike road on a sunny spring day is still a true party. The 150 hp 1.5 TSI is standard coupled in this car to a seven-speed DSG and that combination fits perfectly into the picture. With this powertrain, the T-Roc is smooth enough for relaxed driving, while the fast-shifting gearbox also makes a significant contribution to comfort. A three-cylinder 1.0 TSI is also available, but not in conjunction with an automatic transmission or the R-Line trim level. The Volkswagen T-Roc costs € 36,600 in its simplest form. This means that it can rank among the most affordable convertibles. If the requirement is that the car can be fully opened and has a back seat, the basic T-Roc is, after the simplest Mini Convertible, even the cheapest convertible at the moment. For that money you get a manual, 115 hp 1.0 TSI, which is standard equipped with an electrically operated hood, adaptive cruise control and a large multimedia system, but not with climate control or LED headlights. Who wants an automatic transmission, must switch to the 1.5 (not available with manual transmission), which starts at about 40 mille. A version like the one tested is roughly 10 grand above it.