Volkswagen T-Roc review - Reliability & safety

The Volkswagen T-Roc came in 35th place in the 2024 Driver Power survey of the top 50 cars as rated by owners. That’s the highest placing of any Volkswagen model, but isn’t the most impressive result. Its highest results were in the value-for-money category where it placed 14th, while fuel economy and reliability were rated highly, with the T-Roc placing in 17th and 19th in those categories respectively.

As a brand, Volkswagen did poorly in terms of customer satisfaction, coming in 29th out of the top 32 manufacturers and behind all of its Volkswagen Group sister brands, SEAT, Skoda and Audi. 

Volkswagen T-Roc reliability

Reliability doesn’t seem to be a major issue for Volkswagen cars, as just 23% of Volkswagen owners reported an issue with their car in the first year. That’s about average across the industry, and we’ve not heard of any major horror stories for the T-Roc specifically.

Safety

A five-star crash safety rating from independent expert body Euro NCAP provides buyers with reassurance that the T-Roc will look after its occupants should the worst happen. However, a generous list of crash-avoidance technologies should minimise the likelihood of an impact.

All models have 'front assist' – VW-speak for autonomous emergency braking, as well as adaptive cruise control to maintain a set distance from the car in front, while city emergency brake assist will bring the car to a safe standstill in urban traffic when necessary. Lane assist is also a feature, helping to ease a driver's workload, particularly when in fast moving traffic.

Naturally, mandatory features such as anti-lock brakes and traction control are fitted, as is a warning sound if any doors are left ajar when you begin your journey or any occupants aren't wearing a seat belt.