New VW T-Roc SUV - A potential game changer in this sector?

The all-new Volkswagen T-Roc SUV has been revealed, and is set to hit showrooms later in 2017.

 Volkswagen has revealed its all-new T-Roc, and SUV based on the Golf. Following several concepts, teaser images, sketches and spy pictures, the new crossover will go on sale later in 2017 with prices starting from around £19,000 – putting it in direct competition with the likes of the Mazda CX-3 and the new MINI Countryman.

Making use of VW Group’s versatile MQB platform, the T-Roc will be offered with a choice of six engines, two gearboxes and the option of either front or four-wheel-drive powertrains. The entry-level car will be mated with the now-familiar 113bhp 1.0 TSI turbo petrol, while VW's new 148bhp 1.5 TSI Evo will also be available. A 2.0 TSI with 197bhp will complete the petrol line-up.

Volkswagen will also offer the T-Roc with three TDI diesel engines from launch. The 113bhp 1.6 is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the larger 148bhp 2.0 TDI allows buyers to option a DSG gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The range-topping 197bhp 2.0 TDI comes only as a 4x4 DSG.

In terms of design, the T-Roc looks very different to its larger Tiguan sibling. It has a coupe-style roofline and more compact dimensions, with a sloping tailgate and repositioned numberplate.It’s more familiar at the front, however, where the large badge and wide grille dominate proceedings. The slim headlamps are another nod to the Tiguan, though the round LED daytime running lights are all-new for the T-Roc SUV. Inside, VW has lifted the cabin from its latest Golf with minimal changes. The T-Roc can be ordered with Volkswagen’s latest Active Info Display, with the customisable digital dials replacing the standard analogue setup. These are complimented by a tech-filled infotainment system, with VW offering an optional eight-inch glass-encased touchscreen boasting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Inductive phone charging and a Beats sound system are also available.

But where the T-Roc differs from the Golf or Tiguan is with regard to personalisation. Depending on specific equipment, the coupe-SUV is available with contrasting colour trim that runs left to right across the face of the dash. Bold yellows and blues aim to lift the cabin ambience and give the car more youthful appeal. The accents also appear on door trims. Space and practicality hasn’t been sacrificed for outright style, however. There’s a decent boot of 445 litres , which expands to 1,290 litres with the rear seats folded flat – for comparison, an Audi Q2 boasts 405 litres with the seats up, and 1,050 litres with the seats down.

VW says all cars will come with Front Assist with automatic emergency braking, as well as post-collision braking and Lane Assist. Air conditioning, LED tail-lights and 16-inch wheels are also included.Exact UK trims haven’t been confirmed yet, but expect the mid-level model to offer a contrast-colour roof, extra chrome trim and bigger wheels, while range-topping cars benefit from tinted windows, aluminium pedals and sports seats. A wide range of bold colour options will be available across the range. Order books open in October.