Bucket Seat: Volkswagen T-ROC

Volkswagen has officially introduced the all-new T-Roc in South Africa, and I have to say, this is probably one of the better-looking Volkswagen SUVs to hit the market in recent years.

The second-generation T-Roc gets a completely new design, and while it still looks unmistakably like a Volkswagen, there is something quite different about it. Personally, I really like the way it looks. There are certain elements that remind me of the Volkswagen ID.4, particularly the cleaner front-end design, the lighting signature and the overall proportions. It has a much more modern and sophisticated appearance than the outgoing model.

It is also bigger than before, with the new T-Roc growing by 122mm in length and gaining 28mm in wheelbase. That translates into a more substantial road presence while also creating more room inside. The design is probably the biggest change, though, with the illuminated Volkswagen badge, continuous light strip and sharper rear treatment giving it a much more premium look.

Inside, Volkswagen has also brought the T-Roc up to date with a much more digital cabin. Depending on the model, you get either a 10.3-inch or 12.9-inch infotainment display, a digital cockpit, ambient lighting and Volkswagen's new Drive Experience Dial. The higher-spec R-Line models add features such as IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights, sports comfort seats and additional technology.

There are three models available in South Africa, starting with the T-Roc Life, followed by the sportier R-Line and range-topping R-Line Black Style.

But perhaps the biggest surprise for me is the pricing.

The new T-Roc starts at R599,900 for the 1.4 TSI Life, with the R-Line priced at R689,900 and the R-Line Black Style coming in at R709,900, all including VAT and emissions tax.

What makes this interesting is that the new T-Roc is actually cheaper than the outgoing model, despite being larger, newer and significantly more technologically advanced. That immediately makes it a much more interesting proposition in the highly competitive compact SUV market.

Power comes from a 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine producing 110kW and 250Nm, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It isn't trying to be a performance SUV, but the combination should offer a good balance between performance and everyday usability.

Practicality hasn't been forgotten either, with seating for five and a 475-litre boot, making it a fairly sensible option for families and everyday driving.

For me, though, the new T-Roc is all about the combination of design, technology and price. I really like the way Volkswagen has evolved the styling without making it look like just another generic SUV. It has a bit of that ID.4 influence that I think works particularly well, while still retaining the familiar Volkswagen identity.

At R599,900 to start, the new T-Roc also undercuts its predecessor while offering more space, more technology and a completely fresh design. That could make this one of the more interesting Volkswagen launches for the South African market.