WeeklySA_AdminINTOXICATING MIX: The soon-to-launch new T-Roc and much-awaited Caravelle plug-in-hybrid set to titilate the senses and ignite passions
By Ali Mphaki
VWSA and its commercial wing are preparing for the birth of the 2026 T-Roc and the Caravelle bus with delivery expected second quarter and mid-year respectively.
Excitement mingled with anticipation is reaching pitch-fever among hordes of VW enthusiasts and the like, moreso following the “baby shower” at the recently held VW State of the Industry indaba, where the unsuspecting motoring public were given a glimpse of the two forrhcoming models.
To be offered in both in Life and R-Line derivatives, at launch, the buyer will have a choice between 1.4 TSi mild hybrid petrol engines, a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine which will soon be followed by two full hybrids. Word is out that a high-performance T-Roc R variant is also on the cards.
The first to see the light of day is the funky new T-Roc, with the family doctor informing us that on account of the highly advanced pregnancy to expect the baby to pop out “anytime” soon.
From the scans, it’s apparent the new baby will not necessarily be a S’thandiveli but gains some 122mm in length, more legroom, and a 30-litre boot.
The 1.4TSi motor is the same as in the Tiguan and Tayron models, and with its seven-speed Tiptronic gearbox configuration sends 110kW and 250Nm to its front wheels.
Shoe size has also been increased from 19 -inch to 20-imch, giving the new T-Roc a more sportier and athletic stance.
Inside, the first noticeable change is the infotainment system, which is now larger and in high definition.
Fabric covered dashboard and soft touch plastic on tops of the doors.makes for a more posh interior over the older sibling.
VW will also want us to never forget that around 40 percent of all plastics in the new T-Roc are made from recyclable material.
A big storage area in the centre console, high seat driving position, big door bins completes the ambiance. Our overseas colleagues tell us the new T-Roc drives with a refined, comfortable, and composed feel.
The ride is generally smooth and, in some cases, offers agile and “go kart-like” experience. What Car? says the T-Rocs light steering makes it a breeze around town..
The newcomer sets an interesting scenario in the highly competitive small SUV segment, where it is pitted against the likes of Audi Q2, Mini Countryman, Peugeot 2008, Toyota C-HR, just to name a few.
And just when you thought it was safe to go back to the water – comes the all new Caravele
And just when you thought it was safe to go back to the water…enters the all-new Caravelle plug-in-hybrid MOTION penciled towards mid-year 2026.
With over seven decades woven into South Africa ‘s cultural and economic fabric, the new Caravele signals a bold new chapter defined by comfort, connectivity, and modern mobility.
The new Caravelle is also VW-s statement that the spirit of the original bus lives on, re-engineered for a cleaner and smarter future.
Caravelle enthusiasts will be pleased to learn the newcomer starts as plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle model with all-wheel drive, as well as one electric drive motor per axle which drives the front and rear axles.
When the 19/7kWh capacity battery is fully charged, the economical plug-in-hybrid electric enables purely electric distances of up to 91 kilometers.
It comes with a 130kW 1.5 TSi engine and offers an increased payload up to 1.33 tonnes and towing capacity of up to 2.8 tones.
Whilst pricing and further details will be made available closer to the launch dates of the two new models, rivals are already spending sleepless nights trying to fathom how to stop the seemingly run -away VW brand.
Brace for interesting times ahead.
