Volkswagen is going on a model offensive with its SUV range and plans to introduce a crossover in every existing segment. After the new Tiguan and the Touareg, Volkswagen will now introduce a Golf-based crossover speculated to be called the T-Roc. The T-Roc will be positioned below the Tiguan and is expected to be revealed at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The name for the Golf-based crossover hasn’t been confirmed yet. However, Volkswagen had showcased the T-Roc Concept way back in 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show. In the leaked images, the T-Roc seems to have dropped several design elements from the Concept. The ‘baby Tiguan’ will carry a similar Volkswagen family face with boxy lines, sharp creases and a no-nonsense approach on the exterior. Dimension wise, the Golf-based SUV is sure to keep the T-Roc Concept’s dimensions. So at 4,179x1,831x1,501mm, the crossover will be on par with the likes of Renault Captur and Suzuki S-Cross. Similar to the new Tiguan, and all the other vehicles in the German giant’s portfolio, the T-Roc crossover will be based on the versatile and modular MQB architecture. This will help to keep the cost in check, while providing a lightweight platform and more engine options.
When introduced, the T-Roc crossover will carry forward the powertrain options from the Golf. A front-wheel layout will be standard with all-wheel drive as optional. A plug-in hybrid powertrain and an R-Line version are also on the cards.
Following the Tiguan, Volkswagen might bring the production-spec T-Roc to the Indian shores, given the growing demands for the SUV in the country. When launched, the T-Roc will directly enter into the fray with the likes of Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and Toyota C-HR, among others.
