The all-new Volkswagen T-Roc crossover has been revealed at a special event near Lake Como in Italy. Dubbed the ‘compact-class crossover’, the T-Roc is positioned below the Tiguan in Volkswagen's growing SUV line-up. It will make its international public debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show next month.
Volkswagen has taken a conservative approach with the T-Roc. The styling is subtle with well laid-out proportions. The wide hexagonal grille is flanked by sleek wrap-around headlights. The bumper gets a bigger mesh insert with LED DRLs on both sides and a contrasting skid plate underneath. The fog lamps are positioned way below in the black cladding. The bonnet meets the grille in a manner similar to the Tiguan and also the next-gen Touareg, as previewed in the spy photos. The thin chrome line running underneath the grille and headlamps also adds character to the fascia. The black cladding continues on the side around the wheel arches and on the side skirts. The T-Roc carries a floating roof-design which can be had in a dual-tone paintwork (optional). The C-pillar has been raked to lend the five-seater a trendy crossover-coupe appeal. One distinguishing styling element is a chrome insert running from the A-pillar, over the windows and ending at the silhouette of the C-pillar. The same subtle approach continues at the rear. The wrap-around tail lights extends over the tail gate. The large bumper is decorated with black cladding and contrasting silver inserts to lend the SUV a robust appeal. Based on the shared MQB platform, the T-Roc measures 4234x1819x1573 mm. The wheelbase is 2603 mm.
On the inside, the cabin is similar to other Volkswagens. The contrasting colour dashboard is similar to the one seen on the new-generation Polo. The steering is a flat bottom one. A large infotainment screen dominates the dashboard and provides all the connectivity options. The boot space is spacious at 445 litres, which can be extended up to 1290 litres. The T-Roc will be available in three trims – standard, style and sport. There will be a choice of five turbocharged engines which will include three petrol units and two diesels. Depending on the engine, the transmissions can either be a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual shift automatic gearbox. The T-Roc will have a front wheel drive layout as standard. However, a 4Motion four-wheel-drive configuration will be available as an option. There will be a host of driving aids and safety equipment as standard.
Volkswagen has priced the T-Roc at €20,000 in the German market. Sales will commence in Europe this November. It will take on the likes of Nissan Qashqai, Toyota CH-R, Seat Ateca, and the newly-introduced Skoda Karoq. Volkswagen T-Roc will make its way to India as well in due course of time.
