T-Roc R rocks in from under $60k

VOLKSWAGEN Australia is set to launch its third high-performance R model this August. The first-ever T-Roc R, which will be priced from $59,300 (plus on-road costs) when it lands in local showrooms, combines stylish looks with bristling performance – the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol small-segment SUV develops a cheeky 221kW of power and 400Nm of torque.

Driving all four wheels via the combination of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, the T-Roc R is said to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds, a figure Volkswagen Australia says is “class leading at this price point”.

The T-Roc R also packs the very latest in convenience and safety technology from the Wolfsburg-based brand, including VW’s Digital Cockpit Pro instrument array, 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with native satellite navigations, wireless App-Connect technology, voice control, digital radio reception, and a keyless electric tailgate with Easy Open and Close functionality.

The T-Roc R also includes, as standard, Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive system with travel assist, active cruise control, lane- and side assist, park assist and rear-view camera – plus IQ.Light matrix LED headlights with dynamic light assist.

The T-Roc R is further differentiated from its mainstream siblings via inclusions such as 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, adaptive chassis control with Race mode and progressive steering. The flagship version of Volkswagen’s small SUV range is visually recognisable by an illuminated grille strip with R logo, anodised aluminium trim, matte chrome wing-mirror caps, lowered ride height, quad exhaust tips, as well as a gloss black rear diffuser.

The interior of the ‘R’ debuts a newly designed soft-touch dashboard that features on all upgraded T-Rocs this year, with a stylish new fascia incorporating a new dual-zone climate control panel and piano-black décor inlays. Sports seat with Nappa leather upholstery and seat heating (front) are also standard, as is a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles, black roof lining and tinted rear glass.

There is no premium for metallic paint and there are six hues available: Pure White, Lapiz Blue, Kings Red, Pyrite Silver, Indium Grey and Deep Black Pearl. An optional $1200 Black Styler package is available adding a black roof, wing-mirror caps, roofline garnish, C-pillar carbon-look trim and black frames for the interior vents and audio system.

Other options include a panoramic sunroof ($2000), a 300W, six-speaker Beats audio system ($750) and Lapiz Blue matte décor inlays ($250, pictured).

“The first T-Roc R perfectly packages iconic R-performance and handling with leading technology and safety to become the ultimate flagship crossover,” said Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles brand director Michal Szaniecki.

“From under $60,000 the T-Roc R is both the perfect entry to the sought-after R family while driving like an ultra-hot hatchback cloaked as a crossover. Its Volkswagen R genes run deep and lead the segment.”

2022 Volkswagen T-Roc pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.