Skip advert
Advertisement

Next Volkswagen T-Roc will be last new petrol VW in Europe

Volkswagen’s internal-combustion engined cars will bow out with the next-generation T-Roc

Volkswagen badge

Volkswagen plans to offer only electric models in Europe from 2033, and doubling down on its transition, the firm has made a big announcement in its strategy for full-electrification by confirming that the next T-Roc will be the last all-new car it will introduce in Europe with a petrol or diesel engine. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

This means, by extension, that the next Golf (or indeed, the car that will replace it, though ID. Golf has been mooted as a potential name for the newcomer) will be all-electric only, and the upcoming Passat and next year’s Tiguan and Touareg will also be among the final ICE launches the brand plans in Europe. 

While Volkswagen could still come out with new internal-combustion engined cars until the early 2030’s, legislation regarding Euro 7 means developing a new engine to comply with the new rules - set to be enforced from 2025, are probably too costly. 

We’re still yet to see the second-generation T-Roc in development, so don’t expect a reveal of VW’s ICE swansong anytime soon, especially considering the facelift of the first-generation model has only just launched. We expect to see the new model sit on an updated version of VW’s MQB platform, which wouldn’t allow for a fully-electric T-Roc but could mean a mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid model joins the range.

Within the VW Group stable, SEAT recently announced it has no plans for electrification. The SEAT Ateca sits on the same platform as the current T-Roc, but no replacement for that car has been spotted testing either. 

What does Volkswagen's all-electric future look like? Take a look at the ID.2all concept....

Skip advert
Advertisement
Alastair Crooks, Staff writer Auto Express
Senior news reporter

A keen petrol-head, Alastair Crooks has a degree in journalism and worked as a car salesman for a variety of manufacturers before joining Auto Express in Spring 2019 as a Content Editor. Now, as our senior news reporter, his daily duties involve tracking down the latest news and writing reviews.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

What is hypermiling and how do you do it?
Whisky fuel feature - Martin filling up

What is hypermiling and how do you do it?

Hypermiling helps you get the most from every last drop of fuel to maximise MPG. We explain how it works, and how it can save you money…
Tips & advice
6 Aug 2026
Which cars qualify for the electric car grant? Full ECG list with our best (and worst) picks
Electric car charging mega test - Renault 5 front angled

Which cars qualify for the electric car grant? Full ECG list with our best (and worst) picks

In excess of 60 electric cars are now eligible for a Government-funded discount. Which should you go for from the ever-growing list?
News
5 Aug 2026
New Volkswagen ID. Polo takes on the Renault 5 at under £26,000
Volkswagen ID Polo - front static

New Volkswagen ID. Polo takes on the Renault 5 at under £26,000

VW’s electric supermini is arriving with a 281-mile range, classy looks and a pinch of nostalgic charm
News
31 Jul 2026
VW to sell its high-tech Chinese models in Europe, maybe build them here too
Volkswagen ID.Era - front static

VW to sell its high-tech Chinese models in Europe, maybe build them here too

Chinese brands see Europe as a prime export market, but VW thinks its own Chinese operation can get in on the action too
News
24 Jul 2026

Most Popular

New Peugeot 308 to get radical fastback looks
Peugeot 308 Fastback render - front 3_4 Avarvarii

New Peugeot 308 to get radical fastback looks

Peugeot knows buyers are moving from hatchbacks to SUVs, so it’s considering a very different look for the 308
News
17 Aug 2026
Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC40 is a practical family SUV for under £300 a month
Volvo XC40 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC40 is a practical family SUV for under £300 a month

A Volvo XC40 still offers plenty of style and panache despite its advancing years. It’s our Deal of the Day for 17 August.
News
17 Aug 2026
Bold new Hyundai Tucson looks ready to conquer the family SUV class
New Hyundai Tucson Mk5 - front static

Bold new Hyundai Tucson looks ready to conquer the family SUV class

The new fifth-generation Tucson combines heavy-duty style, cutting-edge tech and, supposedly, best-in-class cabin space
News
19 Aug 2026

Find a car with the experts