Volkswagen have revealed the T-Roc R, the company’s first performance-oriented SUV. This is the first time that the R badge has been used on an SUV by Volkswagen. It has been developed by Volkswagen R, the brand’s performance division and will cater to customers who have a liking for fast SUVs.
It is powered by the same engine that does duties on the Golf R. It is a 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. This setup produces 300 PS of peak power and 400 Nm of torque. Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system comes standard for the SUV as well. All of this combine to produce impressive performance from the SUV. The 0 to 100 km/hr sprint takes just 4.9 seconds while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/hr.
Other than the high-performance engine, the T-Roc R gets a lowered suspension and a standard progressive steering system for improved cornering, while the 17-inch braking system sourced from the Golf R Performance help in achieving commendable braking performance. Other performance-enhancing features include a launch control feature, a new “Race” driving mode, and the ability to manually switch off the Electronic Stability Control.
The Volkswagen T-Roc R also gets several design elements to differentiate from the regular T-Roc. The body kit brings a unique radiator grille underlined by a polished silver band of anodized aluminum, beefier bumpers with large intakes at the front and vents at the rear, quad exhausts and exclusive 18-inch Spielberg alloys. Optionally, customers can get 19-inch Pretoria rims in dark graphite matte shod with 235/40 R19 tires. Other minor styling tweaks include the chrome mirror caps, roof spoiler, slightly wider wheel arches, black brake calipers, and door add-ons in the color of the vehicle. Customers also have the option of choosing a black roof.
The interior of the car also gets several R-branded detailing to make it that bit sportier. These details include a flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters, a black headliner and stainless-steel pedals. The cabin also gets standard white ambient lighting, Shadow Steel “R” trim, ArtVelours microfiber seat cushion bolsters and modified foam inserts beneath the plastic elements, while options include features such a Nappa leather package and carbon inserts.
The Volkswagen T-Roc R is almost production ready and will launch later this year. However, Volkswagen is all set to make the T-Roc R’s public debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show.