VW T-Roc engines

Since its market launch in 2017, the VW T-Roc has established itself as a successful compact SUV in the competitive crossover segment and offers a versatile VW T-Roc engine range with modern TSI and TDI units. The technological development shows the change from classic combustion engines to electrified drives with mild hybrid technology.

VW T-Roc Generation I (2017-2022)

The first VW T-Roc generation was characterized by proven Volkswagen engine technology from the EA211 and EA288 series, which had already proven their reliability in other models. With proper maintenance, mileage typically reaches 250,000 to 300,000 kilometers, whereby the smaller TSI engines are less prone to problems than the powerful 2.0-liter units. Major repairs are usually due between 150,000 and 200,000 kilometers, mainly on wearing parts such as the water pump, thermostat or, in the case of the TDI engines, the turbocharger. The absolute top engine of this generation was the 1.5 TSI with 150 PS, which optimally combined performance, efficiency and reliability. Technical highlights included cylinder deactivation on the 1.5 TSI and the modern EA288 diesel technology with SCR catalytic converter. In a market comparison, the VW T-Roc successfully positioned itself between the Seat Ateca and Skoda Karoq.

VW T-Roc petrol engines: Generation I (2017-2022)

The VW T-Roc petrol engine range consisted exclusively of TSI engines with turbocharging from the proven EA211 series. The entry-level engine was a 1.0 TSI with 85 kW (115 PS), which proved to be surprisingly refined and economical. The most popular variant was the 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 PS), which was equipped with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) for cylinder deactivation from 2018. For sporty drivers, there was the VW T-Roc 2.0 TSI with 140 kW (190 PS), which was only available with all-wheel drive and DSG transmission. The crowning glory of the VW T-Roc engines was the 2.0 TSI in the T-Roc R with 221 kW (300 PS), which was, however, one of the more problematic engines. Typical weak points of the powerful TSI engines were increased oil consumption due to wearing piston rings and occasional turbocharger damage when driven aggressively. The smaller 1.0 and 1.5 TSI engines, on the other hand, proved to be very reliable.

VW T-Roc diesel engines: Generation I (2017-2022)

The VW T-Roc diesels were exclusively powered by the tried-and-tested 2.0 TDI from the EA288 series, available in three output levels: 85 kW (115 PS), 110 kW (150 PS) and 147 kW (200 PS). All VW T-Roc TDI engines had modern common-rail injection with up to 2,000 bar injection pressure, SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection and a particulate filter as standard to meet the Euro 6 standard. The VW T-Roc 2.0 TDI with 110 kW (150 PS) developed into the most reliable engine of the entire generation and offered an excellent compromise between performance, consumption and durability. The 200 hp version was only available with all-wheel drive and DSG transmission and occasionally showed problems with the turbocharger at high mileages. Typical TDI weaknesses were wearing EGR valves and clogged particulate filters on frequent short journeys.

VW T-Roc Generation II (2022-today)

The current VW T-Roc generation represents Volkswagen's transition to electrification and consistently relies on mild hybrid technology for all gasoline engines. Reliability forecasts are still speculative due to the short market presence, but the first 50,000 kilometers show promising results with expected mileages of over 300,000 kilometers thanks to the electric support. Typical maintenance intervals have been extended to 20,000 to 25,000 kilometers thanks to the mild hybrid technology, as the electric starter-generator relieves the combustion engine. The outstanding engine of this generation is the 1.5 eTSI with 150 hp, which combines proven TSI technology with modern 48-volt technology. Technical innovations include a belt starter-alternator, extended cylinder deactivation and optimized thermal management systems. In the market environment, the new VW T-Roc holds its own against electrified competitors such as the Hyundai Kona Hybrid and Toyota C-HR.

VW T-Roc mild hybrid petrol engine: Generation II (2022-today)

The entire VW T-Roc petrol engine range is now based on eTSI engines with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. The entry-level engine is a 1.0 eTSI with 81 kW (110 PS), which appears somewhat weak-chested despite the electric assistance. The 1.5 eTSI with 110 kW (150 PS), which is considered the best VW T-Roc engine of this generation, is in a much better position. All eTSI engines have a belt starter generator (RSG), which provides support when starting and accelerating, as well as an extended cylinder deactivation system, which is now also active in the partial load range. The sporty 2.0 TSI with 195 kW (265 PS) in the T-Roc R dispenses with mild hybrid technology and retains the known weaknesses of the EA888 generation, but shows slightly improved reliability compared to its predecessor thanks to optimized cooling and reinforced components.

VW T-Roc diesel engines: Generation II (2022-today)

The tried-and-tested VW T-Roc 2.0 TDI (EA288 evo) remains available in two power levels: 85 kW (115 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS). These VW T-Roc engines benefit from evolutionary improvements such as optimized injection, improved exhaust aftertreatment and longer maintenance intervals. The 2.0 TDI with 150 PS remains the most reliable engine in the range and is particularly suitable for frequent drivers and trailer operation. The 200 hp version has been dropped from the range as it no longer meets the stricter emissions regulations. All TDI engines meet the Euro 6d standard and feature twin-dosing technology with double AdBlue injection for minimal NOx emissions.

Conclusion: The best VW T-Roc engines of all generations

The development of the VW T-Roc engines shows a clear trend towards electrification and increased efficiency, with the diesel engines consistently proving their reliability. The new mild-hybrid technology promises a successful combination of performance, efficiency and environmental compatibility, while the sporty high-performance TSI engines continue to struggle with known weaknesses.

• Best VW T-Roc gasoline engine:

The VW T-Roc 1.5 eTSI (150 PS, Generation II) impresses with its modern mild-hybrid technology, balanced power delivery and excellent reliability to date.

• Best VW T-Roc diesel engine:

The VW T-Roc 2.0 TDI (150 PS, both generations) offers the optimum balance of reliability, economy and driving performance for frequent drivers and trailer operation.

• Best VW T-Roc all-round engine:

The VW T-Roc 1.5 TSI (150 PS, Generation I) without electrification remains an excellent choice for used car buyers due to its proven technology and high reliability.

For maintenance and spare parts for all VW T-Roc generations, AUTODOC offers a comprehensive range of original and quality spare parts with fast delivery and expert advice.

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