Volkswagen T-Roc feels as good as expected

AFTER a long wait, we finally managed to get behind the wheel of the T-Roc, a car that finds itself between the entry-level T-Cross and larger Tiguan. We sampled this newcomer in the picturesque Western Cape to find out.

The T-Roc's arrival has completed the Volkswagen T range of vehicles, with the Touareg remaining the flagship offering.

The model has broken the mould, so to say, when it comes to design. The front features a wide, radiator grille flanked by dual headlights. However, the Day-Time Running Lights have been moved lower down the bumper to form part of a unique design element which catches the eye day and night.

One of the most noticeable design features is the coupe-like silhouette of the T-Roc. A distinct chrome design element runs from the A-pillars across the complete side roofline into the C-pillar highlighting the sloping roof at the rear. Prominent character lines, sharp angles and an overall sporty look also add to the newcomer's appeal.

The T-Roc is also the first Volkswagen SUV that will be available to order in two-tone paintwork with visually contrasting roof section (including the A-pillars and exterior mirror housings). Two spec grades feature, namely Design and R-Line. The Design model will be available with a choice of either red, pure white and black on the roof and exterior mirror housings, giving a total of 26 different colour options. The R-Line derivative will have 21 different colour options.

The rear design is equally as eye-catching as the front, thanks to a somewhat sporty look.

The interior offers a look and feel similar to that of other Volkswagen models in the line-up, and that is not a bad thing as you can expect decent quality and neatly integrated technology.

The T-Roc will be available with a 1.4TSI motor that delivers 110kW and 250Nm. Performance is impressive, the motor is eager, and despite not having 4Motion, grip through the corners is still impressive, as is the overall ride quality due to the higher-profile tyres. Volkswagen claims 6.9l/100km and a top speed of 205km/h.

The 2.0TSI offers 140kW and 320Nm of torque, a 7-speed DSG gearbox features, as does the 4Motion; the launch control will see this T-Roc hit 100km/h in 7.2 seconds. Fuel consumption is 8.3l/100km.

The T-Roc could just be the pick of the bunch. Both engine options are decent and there wasn't a time that we longed for more power. For those that do want more, unfortunately, Volkswagen SA has no plans on introducing the T-Roc R any time soon.