At the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen revealed a third crossover SUV for its new global lineup. This new model is branded as the T-Roc concept. The T-Roc is an odd build that doesn’t quite fit into any (existing) specific vehicle class/category, and for that reason you might be tempted to ignore this concept.
However, if you look beyond some of the weirder features, this model might be an early look at a serious competitor to the next-generation Jeep Wrangler.
The T-Roc Is An MQB Variant
Premiering with a whole plethora of new VW concepts, including the four part Polo lineup and Golf GTE, the T-Roc is undeniably different. However, differences aside, the T-Roc is modeled around the new MQB modular platform that VW is using for a big chunk of their line-up. This is an important detail, as it means the T-Roc concept is probably more than “just a concept.”
If you’re not familiar, the MQB “platform” (some people like to call it a “modular kit” instead) will appear under every small to mid-size vehicle developed by the Volkswagen Group over the next couple of years. Included in the new platform is the 2015 Audi TT, which we also saw at Geneva this year.
VW has been working to integrate the MQB modular kit into every product because they want to reduce development costs and time lines. If, for example, VW decided to build the T-Roc, a lot of the engineering and development work is already done. Since the T-Roc is an MQB-based concept, there is reason to believe the T-Roc is actually a preview of a new compact SUV, one that will slot itself in just below the existing VW Tiguan.
T-Roc Features Point To Off-Roading
There are a few very interesting features about the T-Roc. What I noticed first was, the two-door, all-wheel drive T-Roc has a removable roof section. This section comes off as a two-piece panel that gets stowed away in the the cargo hold when removed — so it’s somewhat of a t-top/targa hybrid. This seems like a direct shot at the Jeep Wrangler, which has long offered a removable top off-road enthusiasts love.
Powertrain specs for the concept were offered, and unlike a lot of vehicles that never see production, the T-Roc’s powertrain specs are not wildly imaginative nor are they unrealistic. The T-Roc is designed to be powered by a direct-injected 2.0L turbo diesel, just like the one found in the Golf GTD. This motor will only push out 182 horsepower, but it will be incredibly torquey. Torque is something off-road enthusiasts love, as it makes it easy to clear obstacles at low speeds.
The T-Roc has a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission mated to a Haldex all-wheel drive system that features hill-descent and hill-start assist. While Jeep Wrangler purists might argue that solid axles and traditional transfer cases are better for “real” off-roading, the surprising prowess of the new Jeep Cherokee (which has a similar yet controversial-for-Jeep FWD/AWD system) suggests that the T-Roc could be a very capable off-road machine.
Finally, T-Roc’s eye-catching yet roomy interior seems like a clear attempt at one-upping the Wrangler. Volkswagen boasts that four people can comfortably ride in the T-Roc’s cabin, and the T-Roc’s interior surfaces meet VW’s high standard of excellence. If the Jeep Wrangler has an Achilles heel, it’s the comfort and quality of the interior.
When you add it all up:
- The T-Roc uses an existing modular platform, existing engine and existing transmission, which means VW can probably build this thing “on the cheap” and in short order
- The T-Roc may feature a roof with removable panels, something Wrangle fans truly love about their vehicles
- A torquey diesel engine and serious AWD system will make the T-Roc a very capable off-road vehicle
- The T-Roc’s interior is leaps and bounds ahead of anything you’ll ever find on a Wrangler
It seems like the T-Roc is VW’s attempt at building a sporty yet refined Wrangler, one that will offer serious off-road capabilities without sacrificing comfort, performance, or fuel economy.
While I won’t go so far as to say the T-Roc can “steal the Wrangler’s lunch money,” I will say that VW’s T-Roc concept looks like a serious Wrangler competitor. Assuming the next-generation Wrangler and production version of the T-Roc debut at about the same time, consumers looking for a sporty off-roader are going to have a couple of great options.
