The Volkswagen T‑Roc:
What Car? Best Small SUV 2026

After just two weeks of being available for order in the UK, the new Volkswagen T‑Roc already has its first high-profile accolade: The What Car? Best Small SUV of 2026.

What the judges said

The expert judges praised the T‑Roc for its ‘classy’ interior and ‘relaxed driving manners’. Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, also said: “Inside, the new Volkswagen T‑Roc feels much classier than its predecessor, thanks to a higher standard of assembly, sharp onscreen graphics and the widespread use of fabric and soft-touch plastics. But, at the same time, the T‑Roc continues to offer the relaxed driving manners that have always been its forte. Indeed, its low noise levels and plush ride are now on a level that no other small SUV can match.”

The T‑Roc is one of the most popular models in the Volkswagen range, with more than two million units sold globally since its debut in 2017. It builds on the success of its predecessor with expressive design details, bold new colours, a high-quality interior and even more space for luggage and passengers. Plus, assist systems and technologies from higher vehicle classes are included.

Design and interior

The new T‑Roc displays even more character on the outside with its streamlined front section, distinctive bumpers and powerful lines. Inside, the new T Roc combines modern design with outstanding functionality to provide a bright and welcoming feel. The central 12.9-inch touch display enables intuitive control of navigation, media and vehicle functions, while surfaces partially laminated with fabric and illuminated door trims create a pleasant atmosphere. The result is a compact SUV that feels reassuringly smart, easy to live with and genuinely enjoyable to drive.

Boot space and practicality

When it comes to boot space and practicality, the new T‑Roc delivers with generous legroom in the second row of seats, and a boot capacity of 475 litres. When you need some extra space, just fold the seats down and that becomes 1,350 litres of boot space, which is plenty of room for everyday life and leisure.

Technology and driver assistance

The Volkswagen T‑Roc is packed with intelligent technology designed to keep you safe and in control. Depending on the trim you choose, you’ll find a generous mix of standard and optional features. The advanced driver assistance systems help you stay ahead of the unexpected, while the large infotainment screen, Wireless App Connect and seamless smartphone integration keep your music, maps and messages right where you need them.

Trim levels: Life, Match, Style and R-Line

The new T‑Roc is available in the UK with Life, Match, Style and R-Line trims.

The Life trim is our entry-level trim, but it comes surprisingly well equipped with LED headlights with High Beam Assist, 17-inch alloy wheels, an eight-inch digital cockpit, wireless phone charging and a range of driver assistance systems including Front Assist, Lane Assist, Hill Start Assist and Side Assist.

The Match trim adds a more premium touch to every journey with 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, rear privacy glass, 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, navigation and IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT.

The Style trim features LED Plus headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails, rear tinted windows and carpet mats for the front and rear.

The R‑Line trim brings a sporty look with distinctive styling, 18-inch alloy wheels, R-Line body-coloured bumpers, sports comfort front seats, sports suspension, driving profile selection, plus features from lower trims.

Pricing

The new T‑Roc starts at £31,635, depending on trim and specifications (OTR RRP inc VAT).

ID.7 Tourer – Best Electric Estate

Volkswagen’s second award of the night from What Car? was for the ID.7 Tourer, which repeated its success last year by picking up the trophy for Best Electric Estate.

Judges were once again bowled over by the car’s range, comfort and practicality, with Steve Huntingford adding: “Despite facing increased competition in the past 12 months, the Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer remains the best electric estate car around. It’s a spacious and practical choice, with a boot that shames most rivals. But with an official range of up to 422 miles, it can also go usefully farther than most of them between charges – and you’ll enjoy those longer journeys, because it rides bumps well and is extremely quiet.”

ID. Buzz – Best Seven-Seat MPV

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles was also celebrating at the What Car? Awards, after the ever-popular ID. Buzz was named Best Seven-Seat MPV.

“The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is one of the biggest and most practical MPVs you can buy,” said Steve Huntingford. “It offers the comfort and refinement of a luxury SUV, and while we don’t award marks for style, it undoubtedly has this in spades, which brings further tangible benefits in the form of strong resale values and competitive finance rates.”

Spaciousness and practicality are a given for the ID. Buzz, but its car-like manoeuvrability also offers a comfortable ride for any family adventure. The large 86 kWh battery delivers an all-electric range of up to 292 miles (WLTP combined). But this excellent performance doesn’t come at the expense of style, as the retro-inspired design continues a long tradition of Volkswagen supporting a sense of adventure.

Every year, What Car? names the best new cars you can buy based on rigorous testing with up to 18 different areas being tested. Vehicles are tested head-to-head with key competitors and awards are given to the top performers in several different categories.