VW is putting the final touches on the upcoming
convertible version of the T-Roc SUV, with a camouflaged car spotted during
some cold-weather testing. It seems weird that some manufacturers are still making a case for
the convertible SUV niche but apparently VW thinks there’s a solid business
case behind their new model, expected to debut later this year.
The rag-top subcompact SUV will be the third member
of the T-Roc family, following the regular five-door and its high-performance R
version, which was unveiled in full at the Geneva Motor Show. It will certainly be interesting
to see just how big the weight penalty will be in the upcoming T-Roc
Convertible over the standard model as manufacturers enhance areas like the
side sills and the windscreen frame to compensate for the lost rigidity.
VW has already said that the topless T-Roc will be
“emotional variation” in the range, so it’s safe to expect eye-catching color
combos both inside and out to justify that title. It goes without saying that
the dashboard will be shared with the regular T-Roc models.
The engine range will also carryover from the
standard model. That means that the T-Roc Convertible will most likely be
offered in both petrol and diesel variants. Petrol versions are powered by a
1.0- and 1.5-liter TSI engines, as well as a range-topping 2.0-liter that’s
good enough for 187 hp. The diesel TDI range includes a 1.6-liter and a
2.0-liter unit, the latter also with up to 187 hp. Production of the new VW T-Roc
Convertible will take place at the Osnabrück factory, with the German
manufacturer expecting to build up to 20,000 units per year.
