This Plain White VW SUV Is A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing
The second generation of the VW T-Roc R is getting closer to its debut
The VW T-Roc is an SUV sibling of the Golf hatchback, targeting the upper end of Europe's B-SUV segment with aggressive looks and varying levels of hybrid assistance. However, the model will soon receive an AWD-capable high-performance version with hardware derived directly from the Golf R.
Volkswagen shared the first teaser of the second-gen T-Roc R almost one year ago, followed by official photos and spy appearances of camouflaged prototypes. The testing phase is now near completion, with a new prototype caught doing hot laps at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife track in Germany.
In typical VW fashion, the model is practically free of any camouflage. However, the team applied white wrap on the trim around the bumper intakes, which is different compared to the standard and R Line trims of the T-Roc. In the production version, this will likely adopt a glossy black finish, serving as an extension of the grille.
Large wheels and quad tailpipes
The profile reveals more about the character of the SUV thanks to its muted bodykit. The highlight is the multi-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels hiding beefier brakes with blue calipers. VW has also shown a camouflaged prototype with drilled brakes, which might be part of an optional package.
At the back, the flagship T-Roc is distinguished by the quad tailpipes from Akrapovic, nestled in a glossy black diffuser. This marks a big departure from the lesser trims which have a single exhaust outlet tucked under the bumper.
The roof spoiler appears to be identical to the R Line, staying true to the discreet visual identity of the VW R sub-brand. Of course, the production model will feature plenty of R emblems on the nose, profile, center caps, and tailgate. We also expect it to have a different color palette limited to white, silver, gray, and black, alongside the signature Lapiz Blue Metallic.
Turbo power and AWD
Under the skin, the T-Roc R is expected to be a Golf R on stilts. The model rides on the MQB Evo architecture and is expected to feature an R-specific chassis setup with lowered springs and new settings for the adaptive suspension.
Power will come from the familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which is good for 328 hp (245 kW / 333 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque in the latest version of the Golf R. However, the SUV might combine it with a mild-hybrid system, potentially unlocking more power while improving its environmental credentials.
In any case, the mill will most likely be exclusively paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, working with the standard 4Motion AWD. Judging from the Golf R, the system might offer advanced torque vectoring functionality and a track-only drift mode.
The new VW T-Roc R is expected to be unveiled sometime in the coming months, before going on sale primarily in Europe and the UK. As with the regular version, the hot SUV is not destined for North America. Still, US buyers might get access to a larger VW Tiguan R in the future.
