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Volkswagen T-Roc running costs and reliability

2017 onwards (change model)
Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Tom Wiltshire Published: 14 June 2024

Miles per pound (mpp)

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only, and typical current fuel or electricity costs.
Petrol engines 5.2 - 7.8 mpp
Diesel engines 4.1 - 7.7 mpp
What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only.
Petrol engines 35.3 - 53.3 mpg
Diesel engines 32.1 - 60.1 mpg
View mpg & specs for any version
  • Diesel T-Rocs most economical
  • No electric or plug-in hybrids
  • Holds its value well

What are the running costs?

With no electric, hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions of the VW T-Roc available, the most efficient models on sale are – rather unfashionably – powered by diesel engines. The 115hp version achieved 58.9mpg in the official WLTP test; the 150hp engine isn’t far behind on 56.6mpg – adding a DSG gearbox and 4Motion four-wheel-drive has a slightly adverse effect. In all cases, expect to achieve low 50s to the gallon in the real world.

The petrol engines are actually pretty economical, as well. The 1.0 TSI posts WLTP figures of 49.7mpg, the 1.5 TSI manages 47.3mpg and the 2.0 TSI achieves 38.6mpg. Our experience with the 1.5 TSI shows you can expect to get 40 to 45mpg from it, while you should be able to get 45mpg-ish from the 1.0 TSI. Mid-30s are more realistic for the 2.0 TSI.

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Volkswagen T-Roc bootlid
Most T-Roc models will do at least 40mpg.

Servicing and warranty

Servicing costs are generally pretty reasonable at an official Volkswagen service centre, albeit a bit higher than you’ll pay for a Ford or Vauxhall. To help keeps costs in check, VW offers a selection of fixed-price servicing packages. There are innumerable independent VW specialist garages, as well.

Every T-Roc comes with a warranty that covers most mechanical faults for three years or 60,000 miles – whichever comes first. There’s no mileage limit for the first two years, up to the 60,000 cut off. Extended warranty packages are available at extra cost.

Reliability

  • Many tried-and-tested parts
  • Very robustly made
  • Five official DVSA recalls so far

A large percentage of the components that go into the Volkswagen T-Roc are shared with a vast number of other cars built by VW Group brands, and it’s proving to be a robust and reliable car, So long as it’s regularly serviced, of course.

There have, however, been five recalls issued for the T-Roc by the DVSA vehicle inspectorate. Two relate to failings in the manufacture of some early cars, one to faulty electronic handbrakes, one to safety information missing from the owner’s manual, and one to an unsecure engine cover. These don’t affect brand-new cars but check to make sure recall work has been carried out on a used T-Roc. Missed recalls are now listed on a car’s MOT certificate.

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Volkswagen T-Roc 2024 interior front from driver side
The T-Roc is a very solidly built car that stands the test of time.

There have also been some issues with the 1.5 TSI petrol engine, which was prone to ‘kangarooing’ in first gear when the engine was cold. Volkswagen acknowledged the problem in February 2019, saying it was working on a fix. Our recent experience with that engine suggests the problem has been solved but be aware of it if you’re looking at a used T-Roc.

You can read what the T-Roc is like to live with every day by checking out our owners’ reviews.

Ongoing running costs

Road tax £190 - £600
Insurance group 10 - 28
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