Driving Volkswagen’s compact T-Roc SUV today – the top seller in Volkswagen’s
comprehensive 15 model range – five T-Roc models. I’ve just driven the top spec
T-Roc R model, not inexpensive at $61,990 – best described as a high riding
version of the VW Golf R hatch – a potent small 2.0-litre turbo all-wheel drive SUV
– distinctly sporty and nicely distinguished from the lower spec grades, the
transmission a seven-speed dual-clutch slick shifting sports automatic with
manual shift paddles – four drive modes, Normal, Comfort, Sport and Race and
the further you move through each one the more aggressive it becomes, in Sport
and Race the exhaust becoming more purposeful. The steering noticeably direct
off centre, the ride quality hard and sometimes uncomfortable on certain road
surfaces although VW’s 4-Motion all-wheel drive system very reassuring and
offering exceptional grip. Like a lot of small SUVs noise intrusion through the
wheel arches into the cabin is most obvious, especially on the notorious M2
Motorway accentuated on the VW T-Roc R by its highly strapped down sports
suspension. All told, the drive experience on this compact high-end SUV is very
satisfying but if it’s a touch too sporty the T-Roc R-Line model $15,000 more
affordable at $45,350 may be a better look. I’m David Berthon

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