Based on the standard R, the new Volkswagen T-Roc R Black Edition benefits from a number of upgrades. These include a black exterior finish visible on the side mirror caps, roof rails and other parts. It rides on 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels that also sport a black look.
Other special touches over the standard variant include the addition of a large sliding panoramic sunroof. The compact crossover also benefits from a power liftgate, heated front seats, a Beats audio system with an eight-channel digital amplifier, a subwoofer and six speakers. A rearview camera is also standard, among other features.
Under the hood, the VW T-Roc R Black Edition continues to run on the same engine that powers the standard T-Roc R. This is a 2.0-liter TSI petrol unit that provides the brand's thrust 4Movement all-wheel drive system via 7-speed automatic transmission. The engine develops 296 hp (300 ps/221 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. VW claims 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds and claims a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
Photo: Volkswagen
But how much do you have to shell out for the new T-Roc R Black Edition? According to Volkswagen’s local subsidiary, it will set you back £44,250 ($56,480) on the road, including VAT. Orders for the sporty compact crossover will open on Thursday (August 15, 2024). At the same time, the regular T-Roc R has become a little more affordable, starting at £43,000 ($54,885). This model used to start at £45,550 ($58,140), so it’s now £2,550 ($3,255) cheaper.
In addition to the R and the new R-based Black Edition, the Volkswagen T-Roc family also includes the standard Black Edition. The brand's official UK website reveals a starting price of £35,390 ($45,170) for the trim level, £34,405 ($43,915) for the R-Line, £31,220 ($39,850) for the Style and £28,505 ($36,385) for the Match. The most affordable variant is the Life. It has an RRP of £28,330 ($36,160), uses a 1.0L TSI with a 6-speed manual and offers 113 PS (115 ps/85 kW). The 1.5L TSI 148PS (150PS/110kW) engine starts from £29,900 ($38,165) with a manual gearbox or £31,640 ($40,385) with a 7-speed DSG.
The T-Roc remains a forbidden fruit in the U.S., where Volkswagen’s most affordable crossover is the larger Taos. It starts at $23,995 for the base model and goes up to at least $33,515 for the range-topping SEL. But would you throw the Taos out of bed for the smaller, chicer T-Roc?