Volkswagen recently released an updated version of its T-Roc, which now features updated looks and a revised interior. How does the T-Roc's running costs compare with key rivals, though?
The premium compact crossover segment continues to rise in popularity, with most premium automotive manufacturers offering entrants in this segment. Volkswagen recently introduced a revised version of its T-Roc, and the newcomer faces stiff competition from a long list of rivals.
For our comparison today we will compare the entry-level T-Roc with two similarly priced rivals, namely the Mini Cooper Countryman and the Audi Q2. All three models feature turbocharged petrol engines and automatic gearboxes. The question today is, which has the lowest running costs?
The figures
Comparing the trio
Purchase price
The models that we have chosen for this comparison are competitors from a pricing and body-style perspective, with petrol engines and automatic gearboxes. Monthly instalments are calculated throughout 72 months with a 10% deposit and no balloon or residual. The interest rate is set at 10%.
Volkswagen T-Roc 1.4 TSI 110kW Design
With the instalment parameters in place, the T-Roc will work out at R9 400 per month over 72 months.
Mini Cooper Countryman
With the instalment parameters in place, the Countryman will work out at R10 476 per month over 72 months.
Audi Q2 35TFSI Advanced
With the instalment parameters in place, the Q2 will work out at R9 874per month over 72 months.
Fuel consumption
Our contenders all feature turbocharged petrol engines with the Countryman having the largest displacement at 1.5-litres but weighing the most by over 100kg. From a power and torque perspective, there is very little to choose between the trio, however, the Mini is again hampered with less power and torque, while the Volkswagen and Audi share an engine, albeit paired with a different gearbox and the T-Roc tipping the scales over 100kg lighter. Despite being lighter on fuel on paper, we do not envision there being a noticeable difference between the T-Roc and Q2 in real-world consumption. The heavier and less powerful Mini will likey prove less efficient in real-world driving.
Service plans
Our trio have varying service and maintenance plans, with the Audi and Mini sharing the spoils with 5-year/100 000km maintenance plans. The Volkswagen comes in third position here, with a 5-year/90 000km service plan and 3-year/120 000km warranty.
Verdict
Having looked at the data, it would appear that the Audi Q2 and the Volkswagen T-Roc will be similar in terms of running costs over a 5-year ownership cycle, however, the superior maintenance plan of the Audi grants it the win here, thanks to its more predictable mobility costs, despite a slightly higher price tag.
Sean NurseWith a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.View News & Reviews
Keyword: Volkswagen T-Roc vs Mini Cooper Countryman vs Audi Q2: Which has the lowest running costs?