This New VW SUV Can Outpace a GTI, Yet You Won't Find It Here | Carscoops

      High-performance variant of the compact T-Roc to feature the latest Golf R engine along with hybrid power

       7 hours ago

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       by Chris Chilton

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      Volkswagen is currently testing the sporty T-Roc R in anticipation of its debut this spring.

      Quad exhaust pipes distinguish the R from the standard new-shaped T-Rocs.

      The previous model's 296 hp engine has been replaced by a 328 hp mild-hybrid 2.0-liter engine.

      

      While Volkswagen has already introduced the second-generation T-Roc, the more exciting version is still on the way. Our spy photographers have recently spotted the new T-Roc R undergoing public tests, and they report that it sounds as exhilarating as one would expect from an R model.

      

      

      The quad exhaust pipes at the rear indicate this is more than just an R Line, which, following last year’s facelift, has an aggressive new appearance but lacks the performance to back it up, even in the new PHEV variant.

      Related: Every VW Model Dropped In Sales, Except The Two You’d Never Expect

      Our sources indicate that the R will not be a plug-in hybrid, but it will feature 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, similar to the entry-level T-Rocs. Instead of enhancing the 1.5-liter engines, the R is rumored to utilize a hybrid-enhanced version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the Golf R.

      

      

      

      

      Hybrid for emissions, not performance

      The previous T-Roc R produced 296 hp (300 PS), while the new model will deliver the same 328 hp (333 PS) as the Golf R. This means that the hybrid assistance does not increase power (compared to the non-hybrid Golf R), but it will lower CO2 emissions, which is crucial in Europe. Although these European emissions regulations are not an issue in the US, it appears that the T-Roc and T-Roc R will unfortunately not be available in America.

      

      

      SH Proshots

      Power will again be distributed to all four wheels via a dual-clutch transmission, allowing the T-Roc R to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 5 seconds. Additionally, VW is believed to be equipping its sporty compact SUV with the same torque-vectoring rear differential as the Golf R, meaning the drive-mode selector will likely include a Drift mode.

      More space, more technology

      Inside, drivers will find R-branded bucket seats and a thick-rimmed steering wheel, complemented by a 10-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen display. The new model offers increased interior space compared to its predecessor, thanks to a wheelbase of 2,631 mm (103.6 inches), which is 28 mm (1.1 inches) longer. VW has teased a camouflaged version of the R featuring 20-inch multi-spoke wheels and an Akrapovic exhaust back in November, so a complete unveiling is expected relatively soon this spring.