The Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 TSI (150 hp) ACT DSG represents a significant entry in Volkswagen’s compact SUV lineup, launched in 2018 and continuing through 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the first generation T-Roc (A110) series, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and modern technology. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, capitalizing on the growing demand for subcompact SUVs. The T-Roc, in general, was Volkswagen’s attempt to appeal to a younger demographic seeking a stylish and practical vehicle with a degree of personalization.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | T-Roc |
| Generation | T-Roc I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) ACT DSG |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7-6.8 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.6 US mpg, 42.2 – 41.5 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4234 mm (166.69 in.) |
| Width | 1819 mm (71.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1992 mm (78.43 in.) |
| Height | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2590 mm (101.97 in.) |
| Front track | 1538-1546 mm (60.55 – 60.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1533-1541 mm (60.35 – 60.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 161 mm (6.34 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 215/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the T-Roc 1.5 TSI ACT DSG lies the EA211evo engine family, specifically the DADA engine code. This 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with intercooling. A key feature of this engine is its Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which allows it to deactivate two cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. This system intelligently switches between four-cylinder and two-cylinder operation, providing a balance between performance and efficiency. The engine produces 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This combination provides responsive acceleration and contributes to the vehicle’s overall driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TSI ACT DSG equipped T-Roc delivers a respectable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.4 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The DSG transmission contributes to a seamless power delivery, and the ACT system is generally unobtrusive. Compared to the lower-powered 1.0 TSI variants, the 1.5 TSI offers a noticeable improvement in performance. However, it doesn’t match the punch of the more expensive and powerful T-Roc models, such as those with the 2.0 TSI engine. The gear ratios in the DSG are well-tuned for both urban and highway driving, providing a comfortable and efficient experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TSI ACT DSG trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. This often included features like air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels offered additional features like adaptive cruise control, a larger touchscreen display, and premium interior materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Dashboard configurations were generally modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The T-Roc’s chassis is based on the MQB platform, providing a solid and stable foundation. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. This configuration delivers a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 1.5 TSI variant typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The T-Roc 1.5 TSI ACT DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and technology. The ACT system was seen as a clever innovation, and the DSG transmission was lauded for its responsiveness. Compared to other trims in the T-Roc lineup, the 1.5 TSI offered a sweet spot between affordability and performance. It provided a more engaging driving experience than the 1.0 TSI models while remaining more accessible than the higher-powered 2.0 TSI variants. Fuel economy was competitive within its class, averaging around 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg).
Legacy
The EA211evo engine family, including the 1.5 TSI variant, has proven to be relatively reliable. While some early models experienced minor issues with the ACT system, these were generally addressed through software updates. The DSG transmission, while sophisticated, requires regular maintenance (fluid changes) to ensure long-term reliability. In the used car market, the T-Roc 1.5 TSI ACT DSG remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of practicality, style, and efficiency. Its relatively modern technology and comfortable driving experience continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
