More than 400,000 enthused customers around the world within only two years: from the outset, the compact lifestyle crossover T-Roc has already established itself as one of the most popular models of its category. Volkswagen is now launching the next stage of development – and sending it off in the T-Roc R. As powerful as a genuine sports car, as casual as a versatile CUV: the new T-Roc R is now the new star of the entire T-Roc family.
Compact powerhouse
Generating a mighty 221 kW/300 PS and a torque of up to 400 Nm, the compact Volkswagen powerhouse accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 4.8 seconds. Top speed is 250 km/h. Power is confidently transmitted by the 4MOTION all-wheel drive working together with the 7-speed DSG gearbox – all standard equipment.
Performance meets appealing vehicle design
The modern 2.0 TSI power unit in combination with the intelligent 4MOTION all-wheel drive lends the new T-Roc R outstanding driving characteristics. Turbocharging and direct injection already generate an impressive torque from low engine speeds. The maximum torque of 400 Nm is already available as of 2,000 rpm.
Thanks to the ample speed range, the T-Roc R is always within the ideal performance spectrum in almost all driving situations, making it possible for the vehicle to confidently rely on its mighty R power at any speed. The high-performance, 17-inch brake system guarantees powerful and consistently effective deceleration. It is also used in the Volkswagen Golf R with Performance package.
Launch Control and Race modes
The standard Launch Control guarantees fervent starts. Upon moving off, the system controls the clutch and gearbox so that the T-Roc R accelerates with the optimum wheel speed while benefiting to a maximum extent from the drive torque and corresponding driving stability control systems. The ESC Electronic Stability Control feature can be manually deactivated for ambitious driving. This makes it possible for skilled drivers to achieve their best lap times – while leaving plenty of reserve to guarantee safety, as usual.
Standard equipment: 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG)
The standard 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) has been specifically adapted to the impulsive character of the T-Roc R. The tried and tested Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive distributes the output of the powerful four-cylinder engine between the front and the rear wheels within milliseconds, as required and depending on the wheel slip. This effectively prevents the alloy wheels from potentially slipping or blocking. This results in the best-possible traction, including in adverse weather, such as in wet conditions or in snow, as well as on challenging terrain, such as gravel or cobbles.
Unmistakable look
On the outside the new T-Roc R pushes farther what the optional R-Line exterior package already makes as a bold, sporty statement R-style bumpers that have been painted to match the vehicle’s colour with special T-Roc Rdesign and air intakes with black fins represent typical features of the powerful and exclusive Volkswagen R family. This also applies to the R logo on the boot lid and the specially designed black, grained radiator grille. A silver, shiny strip of anodised aluminium at the bottom edge of the impressive air intake stretches almost along the entire vehicle width. This reinforces the visual presence of the T-Roc R.
LED headlights for dipped beam and main beam guarantee daylight-like illumination of the road surface and exemplary visibility of the vehicle. The striking daytime running lights have been integrated vertically into the specific T-Roc R front bumper. This already makes the product line’s top-of-the-range version unmistakeable from a distance. The LED taillight clusters are glazed in dark red, typical of R styling. The two twin tailpipes at the rear left and right have been chrome plated. The optional “R” Performance titanium exhaust system made by emissions system specialist Akrapovič is characterised by a distinctive sound, independent tailpipe design and a weight that has been cut by around seven kilos. The bumper is dominated by visual air outlets at the top and an R diffuser in a contrasting colour. It goes without saying that the rear side windows and rear window are tinted. The bottom section of the doors coordinates with the main colour of the car, highlighted by exterior mirror housing with a chrome look.
High-sheen alloy wheels
Spielberg 7 J x 18 alloy wheels also make a lasting impression. Black surfaces have been polished for a high sheen. The T-Roc R can optionally also be equipped with 19-inch Pretoria alloy wheels in matt Dark Graphite paired with 235/40 R 19 tyres.
Exclusive design elements
Design elements created exclusively for the Volkswagen T-Roc R include the roof spoiler to match the colour of the vehicle, the skid plate painted in a contrasting colour, black embossed and slightly widened wheel arches and black high-performance brake system brake callipers with a striking R logo. In terms of paintwork, T-Roc customers have a choice between the exclusive R colour Lapiz Blue Metallic or Pure White Uni, Flash Red Uni, Turmeric Yellow Metallic, White Silver Metallic, Energetic Orange Metallic, Deep Black Pearl Effect and Indium Grey Metallic. The roof can be painted in contrasting black in combination with all paintwork variants. This creates a trendy two-tone look.
Vehicle interior with sports badge
Crisp dimensions on the outside, high functionality on the inside. The entire vehicle interior brings the spirit of Volkswagen R to life. Its interior impresses with perfect craftsmanship and ideal ergonomics. Lumbar supports in height-adjustable sports seats at the front boost the orthopaedic well-being of the driver and front passenger. The interior side wails have been highlighted by racing-style Artvelour microfibre, while central areas of the seats and the outside rear seats have been upholstered with extravagant Carbon Flag fabric.
With an R logo on its cap, even the key indicates that this is a special vehicle. The style of the ample vehicle interior is typical of the R – racy and dynamic: stainless steel pedals, white background lighting, black roofliner paired with chrome applications on the switches for lights, electric windows and exterior mirror adjustment. Dash panel, centre console and door trims are clad with Piano Black inlays ex works.
Sill panel trims feature the striking R logo. The logo is also featured on the front seat backrests as part of striking embroidery. There is plenty of space on the wide centre armrest between the front seats for both the driver’s and front passenger's elbows. Fans of stylish personalisation can opt for the Nappa/Carbon Style leather packages. Here the central areas of the front seats and the outside rear seats have been upholstered with soft nappa leather used for gloves, while the seat side bolsters feature a sporty, sophisticated carbon-fibre-look.
Unrestricted everyday suitability
As much as the T-Roc R has a racing attitude, it is like every Volkswagen, a reliable and practical car for everyday driving, aside from being perfect for long distances. In its most sporty version, the five-door T-Roc also convinces with great flexibility and maximum comfort. The rear seat backrest can be folded down asymmetrically. There is a drawer below the right-hand front seat as storage space for small items and other useful objects. The luggage compartment capacity ranges from 392 to a maximum of 1,237 litres – one of the best values within the segment.
Sports steering wheel with flattened lower section and R trim
The multifunction sports steering wheel features leather and a flattened lower section. Striking stitching in Crystal Grey and the characteristic R logo make it a genuine eye-catcher. Featuring pleasant, thick padding, it feels perfect in drivers’ hands and conveys very direct sensation for the T-Roc R’s progressive steering. Compared with conventional steering, it is not necessary to turn the steering wheel as many times to reach the full steering angle with this system. The progressive gear ratio brings about an optimised, more direct and controlled steering response and transports perfect contact to the road surface. In combination with the standard sports running gear including lowered suspension it boosts driving dynamics on curvy roads – and obviously also makes everyday driving more comfortable, for instance during manoeuvring or parking.
Paddles on the steering wheel
The rear of the sports steering wheel features two paddles for manual gear changes. Drivers can engage the seven gears of the dual clutch gearbox with lightning speed thanks to these conveniently positioned paddles. Alternatively, drivers can also manually shift gears using the separate selector gate in the selector mechanism or leave gear changes to the outstanding DSG.
Moderate consumption and emission values
The efficient setup means the T-Roc R generates especially moderate consumption and emission values for a vehicle in this power class. As per WLTP, the combined fuel consumption is between 7.7 and 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the tyres. Combined CO2 emissions total 199 to 191 grams per kilometre. Thanks to the optional, adaptive chassis control (DCC) it is possible to configure the T-Roc R’s running gear as normal, sporty or comfortable. In this process, the electrically adjustable damping automatically adapts, as does the electromechanical power steering. DCC permanently reacts to different driving situations and takes into account braking, steering and acceleration processes.
4MOTION Active Control
Just like all T-Roc all-wheel drive vehicles the top-of-the-range model T-Roc R features 4MOTION Active Control with driving mode selection as standard. The system is operated via a so-called operating unit for driving mode selection in the centre console. The driver uses it to activate four higher-level modes and different pop-up menus. If drivers turn the round switch to the left, they access two road profiles in the form of Street and Snow. If the switch is turned to the right, two offroad profiles open: Offroad (automatic setting of offroad parameters) and Offroad Individual (variable settings).
4MOTION Active Control can be used to adapt all relevant assist systems to the drive situation in seconds. Drivers can individually configure parameters for the DSG, automatic air conditioner, electromechanical power steering, adaptive electronic damping control (DCC) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) using the driving mode selection. For this purpose, they have five profiles available: Comfort, Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual. The T-Roc R additionally features Race mode.
Cutting-edge driver assist systems
Just like all T-Roc models the R version has also been excellently networked and equipped with cutting-edge driver assist systems. The standard Driver Alert System visually and audibly outputs an alarm as soon as parameters including steering response, time behind the wheel and time of day indicate that the driver’s attention levels are noticeably dropping. The automatic Emergency Call Service has already been activated upon delivery. Rather inclined Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help overcome uphill and downhill inclines.
Comprehensive driver assist systems optionally make the T-Roc R even more comfortable. The active driver assist system package includes elements, such as ACC stop & go adaptive cruise control, Rear Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Assist lane keeping system, Blind Spot Monitor and Front Assist area monitoring system. The Rear View reversing camera is additionally available to order. It shows the area to the rear of the vehicle on the radio or navigation system display. An invaluable support when manoeuvring, as well as parking into or driving out of parking spaces.
Smart connectivity
The Composition Media radio offers elements including a 20.3 cm (8-inch) touchscreen, a CD player that can play MP3 format, SD card slot and a USB interface.
The Discover Media navigation system is also optionally available. In this case, it is possible to pair mobile phones via Bluetooth. Map material for Europe has already been installed. The colour display also measures 20.3 cm (8 inches). The Car-Net “App-Connect” option makes it possible to pair smartphones with Discover Media or the Composition Media radio system. This enables an operation of selected apps on the mobile telephone using the touchscreen. App-Connect integrates three interfaces to link smartphones: MirrorLink™, Android Auto™ by Google and Apple CarPlay™. Consequently, all current smartphones from Android 5.0 and Apple iOS 8.1 are compatible.
Selected apps for Android and iOS can be illustrated on a large scale on the 8-inch TFT touchscreen with tablet design and operated using App-Connect. This also applies to elements including phone book entries, playlists and calendar entries. The Comfort mobile phone interface optionally enables contactless high-voltage battery charging. Alternatively, it is also possible to link tablet PCs and iPads using Wi-Fi.
Digital Cockpit
With Digital Cockpit Volkswagen is providing the second generation of fully digital instruments for the T-Roc R. The high-resolution screen (10.25 inches) makes it possible to adapt different views to personal demands. Consequently, speedometer and rev counter are moved to the fringes in navigation mode to grant the map more space. If required, information, such as driving, navigation and assist functions can also be integrated into the graphic areas of the speedometer and rev counter. Infotainment system data illustrated in the centre console – for instance, telephone contact images or CD covers – can also be shown on the Digital Cockpit.
Overview of selected standard equipment details:
- 221 kW/300 PS and 400 Nm
- 4MOTION all-wheel drive
- 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG)
- Progressive steering
- Sports running gear
- Running gear lowered by 20 mm
- Race mode
- Launch Control
- Twin tailpipe exhaust system on the left and right
- Spielberg 18-inch alloy wheels
- 17-inch brake system
- R-specific, exclusive look
- Leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons
- TFT touchscreen
- Mobile phone interface and Bluetooth hands-free system
Available optional equipment:
- R Performance exhaust system, titanium rear silencer
- 19-inch Pretoria alloy wheels in matt Dark Graphite
- Lapiz Blue matt inlays
- Adaptive chassis control (DCC)
- “beats” sound system
- Comprehensive driver assist system package
- App-Connect with three integrated smartphone interfaces
- Towing bracket