The VW T-Roc R Is A Hot, Golf-Like Crossover With 296bhp

Want a Golf R with just a little more ground clearance and a slightly loftier driving position? Step right this way, and let us introduce you to the new VW T-Roc R.

Based on VW’s Golf-sized crossover, its setup will sound awfully familiar: up front, there’s a 296bhp ‘EA888’ inline-four turbo, which drives all four wheels via a Haldex clutch-based four-wheel drive system.

It has the same 17-inch braking system as the Golf range-topper, along with lower, stiffer suspension and progressive steering which tightens the ratio the more you turn the wheel. Thanks to the healthy power output and the standard-fit seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (there’s no manual option), it’ll do 0-62mph 4.9 seconds, which is a drop of 0.2sec compared to the Golf R.

The T-Roc R’s oh-so-predictable recipe continues with the looks: it’s had a very understaded makeover. There’s a new and very shiny front grille, slightly meaner front and rear bumpers, mildly widened arches, a small boot spoiler, and quad tailpipes. Oh, and plenty of ‘R’ badges. 18-inch wheels are fitted from the factory, or if you want, the R can be optioned with 19-inch ‘Pretoria’ rims.

The ‘Lapiz Blue Metallic’ used for the car you see here is exclusive to the R, but if you don’t fancy it, there are plenty of other options like ‘Pure White Uni’, ‘Energetic Orange Metallic’ and ‘Indium Grey Metallic’ to pick from. Take a look inside, and you’ll find a flat-bottom steering wheel, and yet more R logos.

VW has given a price for the car yet, but we’d expect the hot T-Roc to be slightly more than a five-door Golf R when it goes on sale this Autumn.