Volkswagen confirms T-Roc R with Nürburgring test video

With the release of a teaser video, Volkswagen has confirmed the existence of an R version of its small SUV, the T-Roc.

The Volkswagen T-Roc R will likely end up becoming a production vehicle, with development underway at the Nürburgring by test drivers for the R performance arm.

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The T-Roc R had been hypothesised and reported upon by UK outlet Autocar, which said it expects the T-Roc R to share the same engine and outputs as the VW Golf R hot hatch. Here, that would mean 213kW and 380Nm, and Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

The video released by Volkswagen shows a camouflaged T-Roc cutting laps on the Nürburgring, with two of its development drivers providing the voiceover and an insight into the sort of vehicle VW has built.

Volkswagen R development driver Benjamin Leuchter says the Nürburgring is the best place for VW’s R department to test a car with its badge on the grille.

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“The Nordschelife is the most beautiful piece of asphalt in the world,” Leuchter says.

“The toughest car tests take place here under some of the most extreme conditions for both the driver and vehicle.

“Every driving mistake is punished immediately.”

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Petter Solberg, Rally driver, two-time World Rallycross champion, and another Volkswagen R development driver, says in his voiceover for the clip that “the T-Roc R gives you the edge of performance.”

“The power, the driveability… I’m very fascinated by the feeling. The feeling that you are in control, you enjoy all these things together and it makes you smile when you’re driving.”

Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed any details about the T-Roc R, but it’s expected more news will follow. Stay tuned.