The 2018 Volkswagen T-Roc mule has been spotted while undergoing a test. The new SUV appears to have deviated from the original concept. In addition, reviews say the Mini Countryman rival has slower acceleration rate.
The mule of the new T-Roc reveals there were some deviations from the revealed T-Roc concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. It seems that some aspects of the concept are not feasible for production nor agreeable with market feasibility.
The spotted mule appears to have gained some height compared to the original concept. The prototype also looks slightly slimmer but still has the curves on the side.
The automaker seems to have let go of the discrete, three-tone, angular interior. The two-door non-pillar hardtop configuration integrated with a dual detachable center roof section seems to have been eliminated as well.
To get a picture of the measurements of the upcoming T-Roc, the new SUV can be compared to the outgoing Tiguan. The latter has 7.9 inches longer than new T-Roc. However, the 2018 Volkswagen T-Roc appears 0.4 inch wider and 6.4 inches lower than the current model.
Meanwhile, Motortrend was invited by VW to test-drive the new T-Roc at the Kalahari Desert in South Africa. The front-wheel drive vehicle that was tested featured a 1.5-liter turbo-four, six-speed DSG twin-clutch automatic engine which can deliver a 148hp.
With regard to performance, the acceleration rate of the new T-Roc was not quite impressive despite being able to deliver a 148hp. The new SUV accelerates slower than a Mini Countryman All4.
In terms of wheels, the new T-Roc sports 215/50R18 Bridgestone Turanza T001 tires. The test proved the tires were appropriate for a Euro-designed vehicle in a crowded area.
The upcoming 2018 Volkswagen T-Roc is estimated to carry a $23,000 base price tag. The four-door SUV is good for 5 passengers. Volkswagen will offer four-motion all-wheel drive as well. There will also be a two diesel engine option that will be released.
See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?