T-Roc finally arrives
We’ve all been on winning streaks. Whether it’s at a pool hall on a Friday night or poker night with the lads, winning feels good. VW has been on a stellar winning streak with the recent release of the T-Cross and last years sweeping victories at #carsawards. But will T-Roc form part of the same winning formula?
T-Roc has been one of the most anticipated cars in recent times. Strange that an SUV can cause such a stir but it certainly makes sense if one thinks about the instant success of the T-Cross. Having been digitally launched earlier this year most of the details of T-Roc have been released but finally, I get to drive this mid-sized SUV
On the Road
T-Cross is very much like a raised Golf 7. In the 2.0 R-Line that I spent most of my time in, the steering wheels and pedals were taken straight out of the Gti, (certainly not a bad thing) and the interior feel is very much VW Golf.
T-Roc drives much like a raised Golf 7 too. I found myself doing 120km/h on a wet slippery sweeping road, and the car felt like it could add an extra dollop of speed without any drama or hassle. It is incredibly composed for an SUV, and exhibits traits usually reserved for hatchbacks or sedans.
The T-Roc is a slightly compromised car. It’s supposed to be. VW’s marketing department has done a fantastic job of finding out where this car fits in and with whom. If you want ultimate practicality, this isn’t the car for you. But if you want practicality mixed with style, flair and character, then T-Roc delivers
I did find the steering ratio to be surprisingly quick but not too quick. The seats to be firm, but not too firm and the ride comfort on those beautiful 19” wheels to be a tad harsh, but not too harsh. I do, however, believe the owner of T-Roc will love those firm supportive seats and the agile feeling provided by the steering and wheels. I would as I often do, still recommend opting for slightly smaller wheels for a little more ride comfort.
Design
T-Roc looks very sporty in the flesh. Even in base trim, the proportions look cohesive and the smooth lines, although familiar thanks to T-Roc and Tiguan, are pleasing to the eye.
It’s available in an incredible 20 colours, some two-tone options and owners can choose to customise the interior colours inserts as well. There are 5 wheel options, starting at 17”, all the way up to 19″. The R-Line model comes with LED Headlights and when specced up looks fantastic, especially with those trendy daytime running lights.
From the front or the rear the design works and based on looks alone, the target market for this vehicle will be satisfied when walking too and from their T-Roc.
But what’s it like to drive, and more importantly, what might it be like to live with?
Engine Choices
You can choose between either the 1.4TSi with 8-Speed Tiptronic engine. It pushes out 110kW and 250Nm. It’s relatively frugal too with claimed figures of 6.9/l/100 The current top-spec model is the 2.0TSI with 7 speed DSG and 4Motion. It pushes out 140kW and 320Nm. Claimed consumption on this model is 8.3l/100. T-Roc comes with the latest in wireless App-Connect technology. The range-topping R-Line comes with a myriad of I.Q driving technologies like Park assist, Traffic Jam assist, pedestrian monitoring and much more.
Boot space is 445 litres and rear legroom is good, but if you want more of it, best you opt for the T-Cross or more family-focused Tiguan.
Verdict
T-Roc has 400 willing owners already waiting in the wings with many more now heading towards dealers, cheque books in hand. It’s no surprise as this car delivers in performance and style and is set to be yet another winner by VW.
For those with more practical requirements, T-Cross or Tiguan are still the better choices. But The T-Roc for me remains the style-conscious choice. Pricing is reasonable however don’t expect the T-Roc R anytime soon. For that kind of performance, you’d have to opt for the Tiguan R set to arrive next year.
1.4 TSI 110kW Design Tiptronic R489 400
2.0 TSI 140kW Design DSG R548 300
2.0 TSI 140kW R-Line DSG R593 600
