REVIEW

It seems as if the days of the typical hatchback style car are numbered if you look at manufacturer’s product lineups – SUVs are now available in every size and have even created the performance SUV market. So it’s no surprise that Volkswagen has seen the success of the Golf R and applied it to the new small T-Roc SUV to create the T-Roc R. Using the tried and tested EA888 2.0 litre turbocharged 4cyl engine it produces 296bhp and 400Nm of torque as it does it the Golf, with power going to all four wheels via the 7-speed DSG gearbox. Visually the T-Roc gets a real boost with the R treatment, with a deeper, more aggressive front bumper with gloss black trim, 19-inch alloy wheels and a rear bumper that now houses a quad exhaust system. The biggest surprise is just how well this T-Roc R handles, tackling bends with just as much composure as the Golf R, but throwing in a load more practicality, more visibility and even a better ride. What a fantastic package!