Volkswagen South Africa pushes ahead with new model launches despite industry pressures

While South Africa’s vehicle manufacturing sector continues to face uncertainty, Volkswagen is signalling confidence by rolling out a wave of new and refreshed models over the next year.

Leading the charge is the return of the Golf GTI, expected to arrive within the next couple of months. Long delayed by local fuel compatibility challenges, the iconic hot hatch is finally set to reconnect with its loyal fan base. Power comes from a 2.0 TSI petrol engine delivering 195 kW and 370 Nm to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox, with a claimed zero to 100 km per hour sprint of 5.9 seconds.

Later in the year, during the third quarter, Volkswagen will introduce the second-generation T-Roc, one of its strongest-selling compact SUVs globally, with more than two million units sold since its 2020 debut. The latest version grows in size and sophistication, bringing improved space, upgraded technology, and a more premium interior feel.

Built on the MQB evo platform shared with the Tiguan and Tayron, the new T-Roc measures 4,373 mm in length, which is 122 mm longer than before. Its wheelbase has stretched by 28 mm to 2,631 mm, translating into better rear passenger comfort. The wider stance allows for alloy wheels of up to 20 inches, while boot capacity increases by 30 litres to a total of 475 litres.

Styling updates are evolutionary rather than dramatic. The familiar silhouette remains, but lighting revisions stand out. Redesigned LED headlights are standard, with optional IQ. Light LED matrix units, linked by a slim illuminated strip across the front that now incorporates a glowing Volkswagen badge. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar spans the tailgate, again centred around an illuminated logo.

Inside, Volkswagen has focused on perceived quality and digital refinement. A new fabric dashboard surface adds texture, while the cabin layout mirrors the cleaner design language seen in newer SUVs. The Digital Cockpit Pro display places driver information front and centre, and a head-up display becomes available for the first time in the T-Roc. R-Line models can also be specified with 14-way electrically adjustable ergoActive seats featuring a massage function.

Alongside the SUV and performance offerings, Volkswagen will expand its Polo lineup in the coming months. The Polo Vivo Xpress, assembled locally, converts the hatchback into a light commercial vehicle by removing the rear seats to create a practical cargo area. The Polo GTI Edition 20 will also debut, marking two decades of the performance hatch.

Rounding out the year, three new Amarok derivatives are scheduled for the second quarter, including the 125 kW Style, the range-topping 222 kW Adventura, and the Dark Label, reinforcing Volkswagen’s presence in the competitive bakkie segment.

Together, the upcoming releases underline Volkswagen’s intent to remain a key player in South Africa, even as broader industry challenges persist.