- Volkswagen is testing the sporty T-Roc R ahead of a debut this spring.
- Quad tailpipes help distinguish the R from ordinary new-shape T-Rocs.
- The old car’s 296 hp engine makes way for 328 hp mild-hybrid 2.0-liter.
Volkswagen might have already launched the second-generation T-Roc, but the real fun version is still waiting in the wings. Our spy photographers have now caught the new T-Roc R testing in public, and claim it sounds as good as you’d hope for something wearing the R badge.
The quad exhaust pipes at the rear playing those tunes tell us this is not just an R Line, which since last year’s facelift gave it an angry new face definitely looks the part, but doesn’t have the firepower to back up the swagger, even in new PHEV form.
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Our intel tells us the R isn’t going down the plug-in route, though it does get 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, just like the entry-level T-Rocs. But in stead tuning their 1.5-liter engines for more muscle, the R is reported to get a hybrid-boosted version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged four used in the Golf R.
Hybrid for emissions, not power
The old T-Roc R made 296 hp (300 PS), but the new one will generate the same 328 hp (333 PS) as the Golf R. That means the hybrid help doesn’t improve output (over the Golf R’s non-hybrid setup) but it will reduce CO2, which is a big deal in Europe. Those same Euro emissions regulations aren’t a problem in the US, but unfortunately once again America reportedly won’t get the T-Roc or T-Roc R.
SH Proshots
Power will again be sent to all four wheels through a dual-clutch transmission, and should get the T-Roc R to 62 mph (100 kmh) in less than 5 seconds. And since VW is believed to be giving its hot small SUV the same torque-vectoring rear differential fitted to the Golf R, the drive-mode selector should also get a Drift mode.
More space, more screen
Inside, drivers will be greeted by R-branded bucket seats and thick-rimmed steering wheel, a 10-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen tablet. They’ll also enjoy more room than they did in the old R thanks to a 2,631 mm (103.6 inches) wheelbase that’s 28 mm (1.1 inches) longer than before.
VW has already teased a disguised version of the R featuring 20-inch multi-spoke wheels and an Akrapovic exhaust back in November, so a full debut can’t be too far away. Expect to see it in full this spring.
