Volkswagen has revealed this T-ROC SUV concept at its pre-launch event ahead of the Geneva Motor Show. We’re told it’s a design study for a new model to sit beneath the Tiguan, while also providing a glimpse of what to expect from all future SUVs adorned with a Volkswagen badge.
Not that it matters too much, but the concept is powered by a 135kW/380Nm 2.0 TDI mated to a 7-speed DSG. Designed around Volkswagen’s MQB architecture includes three different driving modes: Street, Off-road and Snow.
The targa-style removable roof panels are pretty cool, too. Shame they won’t make it to production.
Volkswagen Group evening in Geneva: world premiere of the T-ROC
- Volkswagen concept car provides preview of new SUV range
On the evening before the Geneva International Motor Show the Volkswagen Group traditionally presents its highlights. With the world première of the T-ROC concept car the Volkswagen brand is giving a preview of a possible SUV range. The striking features of the concept car include its progressive design, the front section with the LED headlights and two removable roof halves.
With the Tiguan and Touareg Volkswagen has in its model range two of the most successful SUVs (sports utility vehicles) of European origin. In the future, Germany’s largest car manufacturer will be expanding this spectrum appreciably with new models in a variety of classes. Coming up at the Geneva International Motor Show (4th to 16th March): the world première of the T-ROC, a Golf-format concept car positioned a step down from the Tiguan. Following the CrossBlue (USA), CrossBlue Coupé (China) and also Taigun (India) concept cars, Volkswagen is once again giving a look ahead to possible future SUV models.
The T-ROC follows a new design line and interior style, with the progressive design of the front section being particularly striking. The two-door vehicle also combines the talents of an all-wheel drive SUV – which doesn’t capitulate even when faced with rocky off-road tracks – with the summery airiness of a convertible. The middle section of the roof consists of two halves that with just a few flicks can be taken off and stowed in the boot. Front and rear cameras, which are backed up in the dark by LED headlights, extend the driver’s field of vision.
Powered by a 135 kW / 184 PS turbo-diesel direct injection engine, the T-ROC is equipped with three different driving modes: ‘Street’, ‘Off-road’ and ‘Snow’. The parameters of the 4Motion drive train, 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch gearbox), ABS, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control vary depending on the mode selected. The 2.0 TDI engine’s fuel consumption is a low 4.9 l/100 km, while maximum torque is 380 Nm.
The vehicle body has been designed based on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB). Thanks to lightweight construction the SUV weighs just 1,420 kg. Visually striking features include the relatively short overhangs and the multi-part 19-inch alloy wheels with size 245/45 tyres.