• Clean, well laid-out cabin
• Lots of useful tech available
• Material quality boosted in 2022

How is the quality and layout?

In many ways, the T-Roc dashboard is trademark Volkswagen. Everything is laid out very logically, and lots of switchgear is simply lifted from other models in the VW stable. It’s easy to use and the engineering on show is generally rather good, while a selection of high-tech options gives the cabin a bit of a lift.

What is less typical for Volkswagen is the appearance of some bold interior trim pieces that make it feel a little more cheerful than the average VW. The sportier R-Line and R models stick with sombre black and grey colour schemes, however, and the black headlining really darkens the cabin. Worse is the selection of slightly cheap plastics on show, which contrasts with the premium feel of the Golf hatchback. Instead, it feels more like a Polo – robust and well assembled, but with lashings of hard materials.

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Infotainment and tech

All VW T-Rocs come with a central touchscreen as standard, and the system is a typical Volkswagen effort. Used elsewhere in the range, it’s dependable and easy to use, although the graphics are beginning to show their age. With plenty of standard features including the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity systems, it’s a very useful system.

But despite the touchscreen’s quality, VW hasn’t fallen into the trap of removing physical buttons. There are still good old-fashioned rotary dials for the climate control and a selection of steering wheel-mounted buttons for the cruise control and audio system.

As standard, the Volkswagen T-Roc gets clear and simple analogue dials, but a digital instrument cluster is available as an option, offering more functionality and clarity. Integrated with the touchscreen, it allows you to configure the screen so you can see the information you want, whether that’s engine speed, fuel economy or multimedia data.

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Comfort

• Quiet cabin on the whole
• Supportive and adjustable seats
• Avoid larger wheels for more comfort

All in all, the Volkswagen T-Roc is a comfortable car to be in. The seats look and feel a little flat to sit on, and could do with a little more side bolstering and lumbar support, but they’re firm enough to remain supportive on longer journeys. Heated seats are available to keep you warm during the chilly winter periods, and you can choose from cloth or leather upholstery in a range of assorted colours and patterns.

Most drivers will be able to feel at home in a T-Roc quickly, because the overall driving position is exactly what you’d expect from a small SUV. You sit higher than a conventional hatchback, offering more visibility, and the steering wheel has plenty of reach and angle adjustment.

Those sitting in the rear have their own air vents and a 12-volt power socket to get through long journeys. There isn’t much advantage over a Golf hatchback in terms of rear legroom, but you do at least get foot space under the front seats and more headroom (a typical crossover/SUV benefit).