Get ready to T-Roc and roll

The T-Roc R is a performance crossover - but is it a niche too far? Jack Evans finds out.

In the ever-expanding world of crossovers, there’s an emerging performance segment. The VW T-Cross R is one of the latest entries into the class, following on from other VW Group cars like the Audi SQ2 and Cupra Ateca. It’s a logical step, in fairness. Volkswagen has shoehorned the punchy 2.0-litre turbo engine from its accomplished Golf R into a jacked-up crossover, giving a bang-on-trend compact SUV a new appeal. But is it any good?

WHAT’S NEW?

Much like the Golf R, the T-Roc doesn’t scream about its performance credentials, despite packing some serious firepower. But unlike the Golf, the T-Roc is much higher, which will likely make it appeal to families who want something that’s easy to get children in and out of. It might not be a huge amount more practical than the Golf R, but it’s a winning formula - so there’s no reason why people won’t saunter past the regular hatch in favour of the higherriding T-Roc.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

In typically understated ‘R’ style, there’s not a lot to highlight the T-Roc’s performance. Yes, the quad exhaust pipes around the back, which are de rigeur on Volkswagen models do shout ‘look at me’ a bit, other than that it’s a rather quiet effect. And that’s no bad thing in our eyes. We think this under-the-radar approach to styling will appeal to many.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The interior is pretty standard Volkswagen fare, but that’s no bad thing. The cabin has a feeling of solidity, despite some plastics feeling a little low-rent. The seating position, as we’ve mentioned, feels sporty and well-thought-through, while there’s plenty of adjustability so you can easily get comfortable. The seats themselves provide plenty of support, too. Seating in the back will be a touch tight for adults, but kids will have plenty of space back there. The boot capacity is good too; there’s 392 litres with the seats in place, rising to 1,237 litres with them folded down.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

There’s plenty of standard equipment included, which is what you’d expect from a car starting at just over £37,500.

The eight-inch infotainment system is the same as we’ve seen in other VW models, and it’s easy to operate thanks to the intuitive operating system. There’s also a 10.23-inch driver display. My test car also came with a smattering of options, including a ‘Beats’ sound pack with a larger subwoofer and keyless entry which came with additional costs of £425 and £395.

THE VERDICT

The T-Roc R is as one of the most well-rounded performance crossovers I’ve tested. This VW corners, steers and accelerates in an impressive fashion. Yet it does the daily jobs well too; it’s practical, comfortable and has a good visibility. Though I’d recommend a regular hatchback over a crossover, the T-Roc R feels like an exception to the norm. In fact, if you’re after a performance car angled towards family use, then the T-Roc R could really fit the bill.