T-ROC: VOLKSWAGEN’S NEW SUV

Volkswagen has added a fifth model to the brand’s SUV range in South Africa, the T-Roc.

The SUV market is growing rapidly in South Africa. Between 2015 to 2019, it increased by 44%. International experts estimate that the compact SUV segment worldwide will almost double in size over the next decade. Which is why VolkswagenSouth Africa has introduced another compact SUV to its range, less than 12 months since the launch of the T-Cross.The new T-Roc is a compact class crossover that slots above the T-Cross and below the Tiguan in the Volkswagen SUV range, and more broadly brings fresh impetus to the compact SUV class.Its modern and expressive design makes a nice change from the homogeneity of the SUV market. Numerous details and design elements – from its wide radiator grille with integrated dual headlights to the striking chrome element that runs from the A-pillars across the complete side roof line all the way into the-pillar – give the T-Roc a definite edge, backed up by innovative digitalisation, connectivity, and driver assistance systems. The base models branch out into two different line structures.The T-Roc Design line is intended for people looking for more styling elements, and the R-Line is aimed at those looking for a sportier specification. The off-road look is enhanced by all-round, dark plastic trim, which protects the bodywork around the wheel arches and side sills, as well as the vehicle’s front and rear, and gives the T-Roc a sportier look.

The T-Roc is also among the first Volkswagen models to display the new Volkswagen logo in South Africa, and is the first Volkswagen SUV that will be available to order in two-tone paintwork with a contrasting roof.

For an SUV, its looks might be reminiscent of a coupé, and so is its handling. The T-Roc offers a Golf-like level of ride comfort. And it’s spacious. When all five seats are occupied, luggage space is 445 litres. The backrests can also be folded down in a 60/40 split, yielding luggage capacity of up to 1 290 litres; hardly any other SUV in this class offers such a spacious package.

The T-Roc will come standard with App-Connect, which now connects wirelessly to your smartphone and makes it possible to operate selected mobile phone apps from the touchscreen.

In addition, I.Q Drive technologies are also available on the T-Roc, including Park Assist, Emergency Assist, Front Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist.

Pedestrian Monitoring, which is a new offering, is an extension of Front Assist. It utilises two sensors at the front and, if required, will trigger an audible and visual signal to warn the driver of obstructions and could also brake the vehicle if required within system limits.

The new T-Roc can be ordered with a choice of two petrol engines.

The 1.4 TSI 8-speed Tiptronic engine has a power output of 110kW at 5 000 – 6 000rpm and torque of 250Nm. The entry-level engine reaches 0 – 100km/h in 8.4 seconds, has a fuel consumption of 6.9l/100km and a top speed of 205km.

The 2.0 TSI engine with 7-speed DSG® and 4MOTION® is the second engine in the range and has a power output of 140kW and torque of 320Nm. It takes just 7.2 seconds to go from 0 – 100km, with a top speed of 216km. The fuel consumption on this engine is 8.3l/100km. •

The T-Roc will be available from November 2020. Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

T-Roc 1.4 TSI 110kW Tiptronic Design R489 400 T-Roc 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® Design R548 300 T-Roc 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® R-Line R593 600

The Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/90 000km Volkswagen Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.