Photo: SB-Medien
The T-Roc R started off as a rumor that nobody could deny, followed by a test prototype that's been with us for several months. That thing stopped us from ever getting excited about the smallest performance crossover of the bunch.
But that all changes today because a real T-Roc R has emerged for testing, and it's got some awesome gear. The vehicle is covered from head to toe in camouflage, signaling that the test period is going to be about another year long.
Of course, not everything has changed, but Volkswagen does want to cover the new R design language before it's time for the reveal. This includes a new, larger upper grille, redesigned radiator intake and fog lights (the whole area, not the lights themselves).
But the design is undeniably dominated by two features, the wheels, and the exhaust system. "Haven't I seen those before?" you might ask yourself. And you have, since the 19x8-inch Pretoria wheels are from the Golf R. Normally, they are wrapped in 235/35 tires, which are much wider than the standard T-Roc setup, but the rubber seems slightly taller here.
The quad exhaust system reminds us of the Akrapovic optional system, because of the drilled effect inside the tips. Of course, there's no way of confirming the brand of the mufflers at this moment, but it suggests the T-Roc R will be a serious performance car with the same output as the Golf R.
Other body changes include slightly flared fenders and a modified trunk spoiler. Volkswagen is known for making discreet cars, and this will be no exception. While a jacked up family car is not exactly the most dynamic starting point for a sports vehicle, we're still happy this 300 horsepower T-Roc exists. Sure, it's not going to pivot around its axis like a French hot hatch, but it could outrun some (older) Porsche models, and we call that progress.
Of course, not everything has changed, but Volkswagen does want to cover the new R design language before it's time for the reveal. This includes a new, larger upper grille, redesigned radiator intake and fog lights (the whole area, not the lights themselves).
But the design is undeniably dominated by two features, the wheels, and the exhaust system. "Haven't I seen those before?" you might ask yourself. And you have, since the 19x8-inch Pretoria wheels are from the Golf R. Normally, they are wrapped in 235/35 tires, which are much wider than the standard T-Roc setup, but the rubber seems slightly taller here.
The quad exhaust system reminds us of the Akrapovic optional system, because of the drilled effect inside the tips. Of course, there's no way of confirming the brand of the mufflers at this moment, but it suggests the T-Roc R will be a serious performance car with the same output as the Golf R.
Other body changes include slightly flared fenders and a modified trunk spoiler. Volkswagen is known for making discreet cars, and this will be no exception. While a jacked up family car is not exactly the most dynamic starting point for a sports vehicle, we're still happy this 300 horsepower T-Roc exists. Sure, it's not going to pivot around its axis like a French hot hatch, but it could outrun some (older) Porsche models, and we call that progress.
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