Volkswagen T-Roc is slotted below the Tiguan and shares the MQB A0 architecture with Polo and Seat Ibiza
Volkswagen shocked the world with the recent unveiling of the new generation Polo hatchback that is being considered by some as an effective alternative to the Golf itself. With the dust being settled down, the brand has planned a new assault with the production version of the T-Roc concept.
In short, the T-Roc is VW’s answer to the mass market compact SUV buyers worldwide and it will be need-of-the-hour vehicle for emerging markets like India. The T-Roc was initially showcased as a design study at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show and it was perceived as more of a futuristic vehicle back then.
The small SUV though is different from its concept sibling and will be positioned below the Tiguan that entered India a few months back. It comes with a contemporary design language unlike the two-door convertible configuration of the concept and will likely give the Nissan Juke a run for its money in the global automotive arena.
The production T-Roc is a five-door compact SUV based on the MQB A0 architecture shared with new Seat Ibiza and its Polo sibling. Moreover, the German manufacturer will incorporate all-wheel drive system as option and adjustable dampers for comfortable ride both on and off the highways with plenty of other off-roading equipment. As for the powertrain, the T-Roc gets a variety of options with three petrol and three diesel engines.
They may include larger 2.0-litre TSI petrol developing 190 PS, a 1.0-litre TSI petrol making 115 PS and a 1.5-litre Evo petrol with 150 PS. On the diesel front, it might come with 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre TDI diesel units. VW will likely introduce the GTI performance version as the badge could be strictly restricted to the existing models.
A six-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG automatic will do the transmission duties. VW also seems to be making an R variant of the T-Roc and it could rival to the forthcoming Seat Ateca Cupra. It is expected to use the same 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine shared with the Golf R making 306 hp and has standard all-wheel drive system.
The earlier teasers gave an incredible insight into the creative stage of the T-Roc as designers said the exterior is crafted to exhibit the emotional side of the brand. They took riding helmet as inspiration while designing the interior.
The front end appears to have taken several influences from the concept itself but the shades of Tiguan’s styling can also be found. Styled to make waves as the automaker says, the T-Roc is advertised to have crisp proportions, a progressive design, and a wealth of innovations.
Borrowing design from the T-Roc concept, the production version has pronounced grille with integrated headlamps, plastic body cladding, unique LED lamps functioning also as turn indicators and DRLs, metallic window surrounds running till the C-pillar, rear tailgate mounted spoiler, tailgate with wraparound LED lights, raked rear window, sporty bumper, etc.
The colour-coordinated trim sinks with the exterior paint scheme and there will be metallic door handles, touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and lots of silver accents to complement the premium appeal.
The entry-level crossover is created to appeal for millennials as well as other set of buyers. The first VW crossover with dual-tone colour scheme allows for highlighting finish to the roof, mirrors, and A-pillars.
The interior comes loaded with plenty of high-tech features like digital instrument cluster, Composition Color infotainment system, three-spoke steering wheel, conventional switchgear, total trunk capacity of 1,290 litres, optional coloured trim and sport comfort seats.
As for safety, Volkswagen will offer the T-Roc with standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking, City Emergency Braking, Lane Assist, and Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring. Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Traffic Alert, Park Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist are some options customers can choose from options list.
The T-Roc will go on sale in Germany by November with starting price of around €20,000 (approx Rs. 15 lakh). If Volkswagen plans an entry-level SUV for India, you are probably looking at it right here.
Volkswagen T-Roc SUV Images
