VW T-Roc breaks cover
Introducing the latest addition to the ever expanding VW range- the T-Roc. It’s been described as a compact crossover: a crossover for a crossover if you will. A “lifestyle crossover with SUV characteristics”, as VW have put it. And thank the heavens it’s arrived- because what on earth would we do without yet another crossover?
Right, now that I’ve got that mutter out of my system, let’s take a more serious look at VW’s crossover crossover. The T-Roc is based on VW Groups MQB platform (which is the shared base for all of VW Group’s front engined, front/four-wheel drive vehicles) and as such shares more than a few similarities with the Audi Q2.
The T-Roc is positioned below Tiguan and, like the Audi Q2 will be available with six different powertrains (Three petrol, three diesel) and either manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The petrol engine line-up consists of an 85kW 1.0L TSI, a 110kW 1.5TSI and a 2.0L TSI which is good for 110kW and 320N.m. The diesel range offers 110kW 1.6 and 2.0L TDI’s, and a range topping 2.0L TDI with 140kW and 400Nm. The latter comes standard with DSG transmission and VW’s 4Motion four-wheel-drive system.
It’s a bit smaller than the Tiguan, measuring 252mm shorter and 280mm narrower than the Tiguan at 4234mm and 1819mm respectively.
As far as crossover crossovers go, it’s not bad looking. Dual headlamps are integrated into the wide front grille, flared wheel arches give it a muscular look and the touch of chrome trim running from the bottom of the A pillar, along the roofline, and to the top of the C-pillar is a nice touch.
The interior will feature VW’s Active Info Display and on the whole, it looks to be a fairly pleasant place to be. A couple of coloured feature panels bring a bit of life into the cabin. There will be a number of driver assistance systems available including emergency braking and lane-keeping functions. Progressive steering, adaptive chassis control and keyless starting will also be available options.
The T-Roc is set to be introduced in SA in 2018 however there is no word on local pricing just yet.
