Think of the Volkswagen Golf. Great car. Think of the Golf R. Awesome hot hatch. Now imagine what the Golf R would look and possibly drive like as a compact crossover? The VW T-Roc R is likely that very vehicle. As we already know, the T-Roc is not sold in the US and more than likely never will be. That’s kind of a shame because we’ve seen the T-Roc in the flesh at European car shows and it’s a great-looking vehicle. It’s even built on the same MQB platform as the current and next Golf. But for whatever reason(s), VW has opted to keep the T-Roc and the upcoming performance version from reaching America’s shores.
Our spy photographers recently snapped several images of what’s clearly a nearly ready to go T-Roc R prototype getting some exercise at the Nurburgring.
This hot compact crossover is expected to come powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with just over 300 hp. The Golf R, by comparison, has 292 hp. We also figure the T-Roc’s power will be distributed to all four wheels through a dual-clutch transmission. Sounds pretty good, right? Too bad we can’t have one, but there are some alluring potential alternatives.
Just off the top of our heads, there’s the BMW X1, specifically the X1 M Sport. Any BMW dealership in the US will be more than happy to sell you one. It also features a turbocharged 2.0-liter turbo four, though it produces 228 hp. It’s also pretty expensive, ringing up at least $40,000. Not in the market for something German?
There’s also the Volvo XC40. Like the VW and BMW, it’s also powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four, though output is rated 248 hp. If BMW and Volvo were to offer an X1 M and XC40 with Polestar assistance, then there’d be little craving for the T-Roc R. The downside, of course, would be the premium price tags. We honestly wouldn’t be surprised if the hot compact crossover segment became a thing in the near future, given the already massive popularity of crossovers in general in both America and Europe.
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