New Volkswagen T-Roc SUV 24 | 08 | 2017
VOLKSWAGEN HAS UNVEILED its all-new Golf-based T-Roc SUV, which will go on-sale at Scottish dealerships later this year priced from around £19,000. (Related: Green light for VW I.D. Buzz)
Set to go head-to-head with the likes of the Audi Q2, Mazda CX-3 and the latest Mini Countryman, VW’s new crossover will be available to order from October. (Related: Watch our video of the new VW T-Roc)
With its coupe-style roofline, sloping tailgate, repositioned numberplate and more compact dimensions, the T-Roc looks significantly different to its larger Tiguan sibling. The new crossover is 252mm shorter and 81mm lower than the Tiguan.
Stylistically though, there’s no question the T-Roc is a Volkswagen. At the front, the big VW badge and wide grille dominate, and the neat, slim headlights mirror those of the Tiguan. The T-Roc though does have its own identity in the form of the all-new round LED daytime running lights.
The cabin? Well, essentially it’s the Mk7.5 Golf, which is definitely no bad thing. As you would expect, the T-Roc will be available to order with VW’s latest Active Info Display, with the customisable digital dials replacing the standard analogue setup.
New technology continues with a tech-filled infotainment system. VW is also offering an optional eight-inch glass-encased touchscreen, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Beats sound system and inductive phone charging are also available on the options list.
VW though is only too aware though that the T-Roc, unlike the Golf or Tiguan, offers buyers a high level of personalisation. In the cabin — and depending on specific equipment — you can opt for a contrasting colour trim which runs left to right across the face of the dash. VW believes this will help make the T-Roc more appealing to younger buyers. (Related: VW commits to electric future)
The T-Roc promises plenty of internal space too, with comfortable head and knee room for rear passengers, and a spacious boot. With the car seats in place, the T-Roc can take 445-litres of goodies, increasing to 1290-litres with the rear seats folded flat. The respective Audi Q2 figures are 405 and 1050-litres.
Though VW has yet to confirm UK spec across the range, it has confirmed the T-Roc will have LED tail-lights, air conditioning, post-collision braking, Front Assist with automatic emergency braking, Lane Assist and 16in wheels as standard.
It’s also likely the mid-range models will add bigger wheels and extra chrome trim, while the range-topping spec will get tinted windows and sports seats.
At launch, the T-Roc will be available with six engines, two gearboxes and a choice of front or four-wheel-drive powertrains.
The range will start with the tried-and-tested 113bhp 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol, and will also include a 148bhp 1.5TSI Evo and 197bhp 2.0TSI.
Diesel lovers get the choice of three TDI engines. At launch there will be a 113bhp 1.6TDI, mated only to a standard six-speed manual gearbox.
The mid-range 148bhp 2.0TDI — likely to be the most popular – is also available with a DSG gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The range-topping 197bhp 2.0TDI gets 4x4 DSG as standard.
Related: VW Arteon flagship starts at £34,305
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Jim McGill