STRIPPED BACK

A global shortage of semiconductors has forced car companies to innovate

Fans of Volkswagen’s fast SUVs have a decision to make. They can join the queue for fully loaded R variants of the Tiguan and TRoc or order a Grid Edition and skip to the front of the line. Short supply of semiconductors, the computer chips needed for everything from dash displays to safety systems, has led to long wait times for nearly every model. In response, Volkswagen has come up with a plan to boost supply and get drivers in cars sooner.

The Grid Editions ditch semiconductor-heavy equipment but keep the headlining grabbing performance.

The T-Roc R Grid Edition is priced from $54,300 (before on-road costs) and the Tiguan version costs $63,990. That adds up to savings of $6000 and $6500 respectively. They are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that makes 221kW/400Nm in the T-Roc and 235kW/400Nm in the Tiguan. Both are matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive.

The smaller and lighter T-Roc is quicker to 100km/h, making the benchmark run in 4.9 seconds compared to the Tiguan’s 5.1 sprint. Both have multiple driving modes that alter the vehicle’s steering and throttle response, suspension firmness and exhaust note.

The T-Roc is the sweeter steering of the two. Its lighter weight, shorter wheelbase and lower ride height make it more agile and engaging on the road. Well balanced and direct steering gives excellent feedback and the T-Roc makes light work of a tight and twisting road. All-wheel drive grip means the pocket rocket feels composed in the wet, too.

The auto gearbox does a great job of keeping the engine humming along in its sweet spot, but those seeking more control can use steering wheel mounted paddle shifters to extract the most from the deep power reserves.

Flick the T-Roc it into Race Mode and the SUV sits admirably flat when pushing through tight turns. Switch it to Comfort Mode and it smooths out bumps and road imperfections around town.

The Tiguan R is a bigger unit and there is no hiding the extra heft. Compared to the T-Roc, it feels a tad more sluggish and less eager to change direction on a tight, twisting road. It’s still great fun to drive, though.

The Tiguan benefits from smart torquevectoring tech – found in the new Golf R hatch – that delivers more grunt to the outside wheel, allowing it to turn in tighter.

Both vehicles go without luxuries such as premium audio, a powered tailgate, electronically adjustable seats, head-up display and hi-tech matrix LED headlights. Figurehugging fabric sports seats replace plusher Nappa leather pews.

The Tiguan keeps its heated seats but the TRoc jettisons them, while both have a heated steering wheel.

Of more concern it the deletion of blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, two of the most useful safety aids.

Both vehicles will, however, automatically hit the brakes if they detect a potential collision, while sensors will keep you centred in your lane, tugging at the wheel if you wander.

They’ll also automatically brake if you reverse when something is directly behind you.

The pair looks the part, with blacked out exterior highlights replacing glittering chrome elements on the regular R versions. The Tiguan rides on massive 21-inch alloy wheels and the TRoc sports dark grey 19-inch alloys.

A panoramic sunroof is the only option. It costs $2000 in the T-Roc and $2100 in the Tiguan. While the T-Roc shades the Tiguan on the road, its cabin is not as impressive, sporting plenty of hard plastics. In contrast the Tiguan has better integrated infotainment and superior fit and finish.

The Tiguan’s boot is enormous for its class and the T-Roc’s is slightly below average.

Volkswagen guarantees the pair for five years/unlimited km and buyers can buy a prepaid service plan that costs $3200 for the Tiguan R and $2950 for the T-Roc.