The Volkswagen T-Roc 2.0 TDI SCR 4MOTION, produced from 2018 to 2019, represents a compelling entry in the compact SUV segment, particularly within the European market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the first generation (T-Roc I) lineup, this variant combined a potent diesel engine with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. It aimed to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and practical vehicle. The T-Roc, launched as a new model for Volkswagen, was intended to attract a younger demographic and expand the brand’s presence in the growing crossover SUV category.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | T-Roc |
| Generation | T-Roc I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI SCR (150 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.3 l/100 km (56 – 54.7 US mpg, 67.3 – 65.7 UK mpg, 23.8 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 128-129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DFFA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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 | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 | 215/55 R17; 215/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the T-Roc 2.0 TDI SCR 4MOTION is the DFFA engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine falls under Volkswagen’s broader TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) family. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. A key feature of this engine is its Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, which uses AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, helping it meet stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. The 4MOTION system is a sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup utilizing a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing enhanced traction and stability. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI engine delivered respectable performance for a compact SUV. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 8.7 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The 4MOTION system significantly enhanced handling and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. Compared to the base 1.0 TSI petrol engine, the 2.0 TDI offered considerably more torque, resulting in stronger acceleration and better towing capacity. However, it lacked the outright responsiveness of the petrol engine. Compared to higher-output TDI variants, this 150 hp version offered a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The T-Roc 2.0 TDI SCR 4MOTION typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like automatic climate control, a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clean and intuitive design.
Chassis & Braking
The T-Roc’s chassis was designed to provide a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. It utilized independent suspension all around, with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The 4MOTION variants generally featured slightly stiffer suspension tuning compared to front-wheel-drive models to handle the increased weight and power. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) were standard, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The T-Roc 2.0 TDI SCR 4MOTION was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and capable all-wheel-drive system. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials could be improved. Compared to competitors like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, the T-Roc offered a more refined driving experience and a more modern interior design. The TDI engine provided excellent fuel economy, typically achieving around 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) in combined driving, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The DFFA engine code, while subject to the general diesel particulate filter (DPF) concerns common to modern diesels, has a generally good reputation for longevity when properly maintained. On the used car market, the T-Roc 2.0 TDI SCR 4MOTION holds its value reasonably well, particularly examples with lower mileage and a full service history. The combination of fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capability, and a comfortable interior continues to make it a desirable option for buyers seeking a practical and versatile compact SUV.
