Volkswagen’s Golf-based T-Roc crossover is due a mid-cycle refresh, and our spies have captured the high-performance T-Roc R variant testing undisguised ahead of its launch, giving a clear look at the updated car.
Volkswagen’s Golf-based T-Roc crossover is due a mid-cycle refresh, and our spies have captured the high-performance T-Roc R variant testing undisguised ahead of its launch, giving a clear look at the updated car.
Styling tweaks for the new model are minimal. The front end receives a new, single-bar grille with a revised mesh design, which features thicker chrome trim on its upper edge compared with the outgoing car.
The facelifted T-Roc R retains the same sharp creases along its bonnet and flanks as the current model, although this undisguised test car is fitted with a new design of diamond-cut alloy wheel. The door mirrors have also been revised, with extended indicator repeaters. The T-Roc’s distinctive chrome window trim, which runs across the C-pillar and meets with the rear window, remains.
At the rear, the T-Roc R’s tail-lights are smoked, with a tweaked light cluster design that aligns more closely with the Golf 8. The lower bumper has also been slightly resculpted, with larger side vents and a neater diffuser set-up, which integrates with the R-trademark quad-tailpipe exhaust.
The current T-Roc R is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and it’s highly likely that the facelifted version will be fitted with the updated unit from the Mk8 Golf R.
Producing 236kW and 420Nm in that car, the updated engine provides an increase of 15kW and 40Nm over the outgoing T-Roc R. Power will be sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox; it’s possible that the revised T-Roc R may also adopt the latest Golf R’s four-wheel drive system, which features a torque-vectoring rear differential.
Across the range, the refreshed T-Roc will receive an interior refresh too, in the shape of VW’s latest infotainment tech. This includes a 10-inch digital instrument display and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, borrowed from the Golf 8. The system features a ‘Hello Volkswagen’ voice assistant, wireless smartphone connectivity and a head-up display. New interior trims and upholstery options could also form part of the update.
Pricing and further details of the new T-Roc R will be announced before the end of the year, with an expected launch in mid-2022.
Yousuf Ashraf
