Car of the Year Awards 2026: Small SUV of the Year
A small SUV's compact size mustn’t come at the expense of practicality and should be reflected by low running costs. It should ride comfortably, too, while maintaining a sense of fun...
Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 eTSI 150 Life DSG
The Sunday roast is one of the UK’s favourite meals, with its large, hearty portions forming what some would argue as being the ultimate comfort food. And the Volkswagen T-Roc’s popularity over the years has been based on similar values – namely, it being bigger and more comforting than rivals. However, this second-generation model builds on that, because it’s made with even nicer ingredients.
There’s clearly been a concerted effort to improve the standard of the T-Roc’s interior; the new car’s is better assembled, while its sharp onscreen graphics and the widespread use of fabric and soft-touch plastics makes it more appealing in terms of look and feel.
At the same time, though, the T-Roc continues to offer the relaxing driving manners that have always been one of its biggest strengths. Indeed, its low noise levels and plush ride provide a soothing experience that no other small SUV can match.
Most of the time, you can barely hear our favourite engine or feel any vibrations from it. And even when worked hard, the T-Roc remains less vocal than not only direct rivals but also pricier stablemates that are powered by the same 1.5-litre mild hybrid petrol set-up.
It delivers all the performance you need, too, being responsive around town and punchy enough when you need to stretch its legs on the motorway.
Pricier T-Rocs are available with optional adaptive suspension (£765) that can be stiffened or softened to favour ride comfort or body control. However, we wouldn’t bother paying the extra. The standard suspension is so good at soaking up bumps and isolating occupants from potholes that you barely notice them. Yet there’s enough control that the T-Roc remains level over undulations, adding to its cosseting feel.
True, the steering isn’t as sharp as the Ford Puma’s, but with plenty of grip and well-contained body lean in bends, the T-Roc remains more than composed enough when you’re pressing on.
In terms of size, the new car is 122mm longer than its predecessor. That means there’s even more rear leg room, so four six-footers can travel on board and actually be able to stretch out. And unlike with some rivals, the T-Roc’s big rear doors mean you don’t have to contort yourself just to get in or out.
The T-Roc’s 475-litre boot may not be as impressive as the Dacia Duster’s, but it’s not far off, and there’s still plenty of room to fit in seven carry-on suitcases. And if that’s not enough, the seats are more versatile than most other contenders’, thanks to a big ski hatch in the middle of the rear backrest and a front passenger seat that folds flat.
So, our favourite small SUV doesn’t just serve up everything you could need, but has become a really tasty option.
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