That's very kind of you T v S - I can't blame anyone apart from myself though as success takes effort and I can't have been putting enough in. The workload of guys like Joe Achilles and Jay Emm is full on and they deserve all the success they've achieved (and 100k+ subs!)
He’s a great car reviewer and goes into a good level of detail. I think half the problem is being the ‘volkswizard’ rather limits the reviews you can do to VAG products. I’d like to see Andrew branch out into other manufacturers and appeal to a wider audience.
I’ve had my T Roc R for 2 years now. (Previous car was a Golf R Estate). Overall, I really like it and the driving modes are noticeably different. The biggest issue is the lack of internal space - I could get nearly as much stuff in my Polo! I’ll be going back to the Estate next time. I spend most of the time in Comfort and surfing around on the huge torque. So unless they’ve changed the set-up in the facelift, I’ll have to disagree with you on that! I have 19” wheels & DCC too. It’s also a great car to drive in Normal & Sport.
Hey Steve, I'd love to know if they have made suspension changes over the pre-facelift car, it wouldn't be unheard of. I'm normally pretty good on ride quality and that road I drove in the 2019 car was far from perfect and it was 19s and passive dampers. A mystery, going to do some research on the facelift R model right now. See if Benny Leuchter has been fiddling with it 🤣🤣
@@volkswizard will be interested to see what you come up with. I reckon there has been some fiddling going on, because my one rides like a limo in Comfort mode. Slightly more crashy in Normal but nothing I couldn’t live with. Local VW garage were pretty keen to “upgrade” me to a new one, but why bother when, as you say, there’s no 320bhp or clever rear diff…
I’ve had the Tiguan R had one of the first in the country I was putting £1400 a month in fuel 😅😅 worst car I’ve ever drove for petrol might as well have an Svr tbh but what a fun car lol😂 I miss it dearly
If I had to choose it would be Golf too, purely based on ride quality. Shame as I really want to like the T Roc R. If it had 320ps, 357mm brakes and a slightly better DCC ride I'd be all in.
Quite like the chilled out format of the reviews that you do. Just a thought, would be interesting if you could do a comparison video between the most basic spec of a model vs its most spec'ed out equivalent
Glad you enjoyed in Daniel, I've only got one speed unless its raining as per original T Roc video from March this year! I think that video is a great idea, might be tricky to get the 2 cars unless a main dealer has got them. It's safe to say options play a big part these days.
@@volkswizard It would be interesting, technically reviewing one car, but for two different target markets and can make some comparisons, can imagine it would be difficult to source though
Great video Andrew. I have a 7.5R on passive dampers on 19" Pretoria wheels and find the ride to be perfectly balanced. I found the ride on my previous Polo GTI 6C with DCC to be a bit firmer surprisingly.
Thanks Adam. Ride quality is subjective but I try and keep an open mind. 7.5R just about gets away with the ride on 19s but ultimately it depends on where you drive. My commute was smooth roads and motorways so it wouldn't bother me on a regular basis but there are certain counties where the rural roads are pretty wrecked. Obviously Golf R sitting lower can get a better balance of ride and handling, start jacking them up and something has to give.
@@volkswizard oh 100% subjective. My car does motorway miles mostly so not having it really doesn’t matter to me. I had disregarded the fact the T-Roc is higher. Still a great car for the money
Thanks Adam. Big difference with any Polo and a performance Golf is that Polo has a rudimentary torsion beam rear suspension system rather than independent so much harder to balance ride and handling (a high riding, torsion beam, 'sporty' SUV will be hideous!). Also Polo 6C (correct me if I am wrong) has switchable dampers (don't think it's still called DCC) rather than adaptive so again it's bit less sophisticated than DCC on a Golf. But on a Polo GTI I think VW (like SEAT do on nearly every model) feel they can get away with a firm ride as it's sporty. I always thought R models were meant to be a little more comfortable than a GTI hence why I'm confused by T Roc R.
@@volkswizard I definitely feel a difference when I get out of the Polo into the Golf with the ride quality (and quality in general as expected). It is just switchable dampers just labelled as DCC in the brochure. When activated the ride is unbearably bouncy and since I've sold the car to my brother, he openly admits he has never pressed the sport button due to the single time I pressed it when I owned it. The high riding, torsion beam sporty SUV would probably come down to a T-Cross R. A car we probably will never see. It's embarrassing to admit I've never driven a mk7/7.5 GTI. I must get behind the wheel at some point to see how it compares. I think in the situation of looking at a brand new T-Roc R, I'd consider a used Tiguan R or Golf. Dealers have openly admitted the T-Roc R is a poor seller in my area of the North East.
Would love your comparison of the cupra formentor vz 310, I love it and prefer it looks wise over the t-roc even though its on the same platform, if you need one to compare then let me know 😉😉
Thanks Gavin! Thanks also for the offer of your Formentor, very kind BUT that's why Cupra has a press office and press fleet of cars. I think yours is the 3rd request for a Formentor 310 video and I'd love to review one. As I've said elsewhere, I've asked Cupra UK but so far I've been ignored, weird as they lend cars out to other RUclipsrs who get a lot fewer views on VWG products, though there is a key difference in our reviewing style. For the moment, we'll have to make do with my drive of a Formentor 310 at Goodyear's Mireval test track, it was used to demonstrate wet grip of the new Assymetric 6 vs the old Assymetric 5, video live in early September👍
@@volkswizard It's a shame they are blanking you, I have a new Cupra Ateca and having come from VW it is obviously familiar to me but has its own identity as well. Also the blue leather seats with copper stitching are a really great look in them.
I have a friend who regrets buying the Formentor due to the lack of boot space and the value has plummeted whereas the T-roc R seems to have held its value well.
I tell myself every now and then I should sell my mk5 gti but every morning I get in her to drive to work and the feeling I get driving her then I think to myself damn I love this car and I quickly forget this stupid thought..lol
There will be some Formetor footage in the Goodyear Assymetric 6 review video filmed at the Goodyear test track in the south of France which will drop next month. I've emailed Cupra UK press office about Formentor and Born and they don't seem to want to engage with me, they seem to prefer to lend cars to RUclipsrs who don't give critical reviews (and therefore who you shouldn't take seriously)
Great choice. I've gone for the Formentor VZx as well, eta on mine is 3 weeks. I haven't driven the new T-Roc R, deliveries don't hit Australian shores for another 3 months or so. Drive away pricing for the T-Roc R is within a couple of dollars of the Cupra here. Tiguan R is $10K to $15K more with a lengthy wait list. I think the older style interior of the T-Roc R (DSG lever, separate climate controls etc) may be better functionally than the Formentor's, otherwise, I think the Formentor is far more desirable; and rare as hen's teeth in Australia. Be interesting to hear Andrew's opinion on the Formentor, given all his experience with VAG products.
With the latest RUclips update (Nov 22) I’ve no idea whether I’ve subscribed or not or even how to. Change isn’t always progress? Enjoyed review so much last time thought I’d watch it again. 🚙
I've tried. All I can say is some manufacturers don't like engaging with channels like mine where critical opinions are given. It's different with traditional media like Autocar, Evo etc who they have to engage with and bigger RUclipsrs like Joe Achilles and who do a great job of unbiased and critical reviewing. However not lending me a car is not headline news. What's interesting is that they do lend cars to smaller RUclipsrs with similar subs and view numbers but who aren't doing critical reviews, just saying it's all 'fantastic' and getting smaller viewer numbers on VWG cars, read from that what you will...
That must be really frustrating! I'm taking delivery of a formentor vz3 in a couple of weeks, replacing my mk3 TT. Test drove a Mk8 R but found the interior of the formentor to be far superior.
I do have one of these down here is Australia. I traded in my Alfa Giulia base model to get it. I have to say that the Alfa's driving experience is incredible, but this is an SUV so not that fair to compare. Although, this is far more powerful than the base Giulia. Anyway, I do really enjoy the TROC-R. It's a monster really. The power that's on tap here is nuts. Can't believe they can get all that out of a 2L 4CL engine... A bit too noisy (seems to try too hard to sound good), and a bit stiff in the ride as you pointed out. But, the practicality of the vehicle combined with the driving pleasure tips the scales in it's favour for me. I can just throw my golf clubs in the boot and off we go. The family fits in easily and we use my car to go places now, which we didn't before. I must say though... I find that the gearing is odd. I drove my Alfa in dynamic mode, the sportiest setting, all the time. Power was always on tap (not as much, but I never had to gear manually), and it didn't make all that noise. When it did, it was rather pleasant. The TROC-R lags a bit, even in S mode with Individual settings applied to make things a little softer. Never had that problem with the Alfa. I find myself needing to gear down because the vehicle is always too quick to gear up, and its noisy AF otherwise. I'm getting used to it, but I reckon the Giulia Veloce would be a near perfect drive for me as it just about the same amount of power as the TROC-R, and that Alfa Giulia drive is second to none. But, I digress! I got this because it's practical and powerful yet fun at the same time. Mission accomplished.
Another well balanced review. I don't "get" the whole performance SUV type cars at all though, the off-road settings made me laugh (there's no way anyone will take this off-road, I don't think). If you want a more practical alternative to a Golf 8 R, then there's the R Estate (as you said) - I think the Golf R works best as an estate, personally (but I'm biased🤣). Think you've nailed it at the end with the choppy ride - a tall SUV type car will have compromises as far as ride/handling goes (basic physics, I guess). My 7.5 R estate (DCC) rides plushly on 19" wheels, even in "Normal " mode. The interior looks decent - I prefer the seats to the 8 R & the whole control setup. Detest those stupid temperature controls though - give me the nicely damped knobs from the 7/7.5 any day! Always felt the T-roc in general was a Polo specced car for Golf money - illustrated by the premium sound system being Beats, instead of the Harmon Kardon. Beats is ok (my Wife had it in her old Up! Beats TSi), but not a patch on the 7/7.5 Dynaudio (& probably not the HK system in Golf 8 either). The T- roc R sounds like the 7.5 R in engine & transmission spec.
Fair point about Beats being more Polo (and Up!) than Golf. T-Roc has always confused me about whether it's Golf or Polo. Mk1 Tiguan was clearly a MK6 Golf based car, then it got bigger with Mk2 and left room for something Golf ish size to go in below and we got T Roc 1 year later. T Cross is resolutely Polo based so at least that's clear. It is indeed same spec as 300 PS 7.5R but engine is definitely the Evo 3 version as in Golf 8 Clubsport so it's a bit better on fuel and Co2. Also it shouldn't leak coolant from thermostat housing 👿
Hi Andrew. Great review as always. VW UK; make him your go to reviewer for the entire UK range! Unbiased and interesting. Agree with other comments here; what's the point? Expensive, small boot and harsh ride.
It's the same chassis as the vw Taos they sale in North and South America, but without that powerfull engine, only with 1.5 158 horses and 184 PFT. That gives me an I dia I am going to swap the original Taos engine with a Golf R mark 8 the transmission I think is the same as my 4MOTION 7speed DSG
Really? I'm surprised there are deals on anything but the VW website says there are cars in stock so you could get one quicker than expected. Problem with lease deals is add on the options and they aren't so cheap
Another interesting and informative video, Andrew. When you start adding options onto an already expensive car, like the matrix headlights but at £1600 seems excessive.
Interesting that your car has matrix headlights - I have one on order and I’ve been told by vw that matrix headlights (which are supposed to be standard on the R) aren’t available at the moment - no light bar either - but then I guess the press car won’t be representative of what’s actually available to normal folk. The lack of electric boot is unforgivable given that other markets get it. Mine will be on 18s so I’m interested to see what the ride will be like. Great review though as always Andrew!
Thanks Chris! It dawned on me that the semi-conductor crisis/Ukraine might be impacting the desire for VW to put unnecessary electronics on cars hence why the power tailgate is n/a. You are right about the headlights, I don't actually recall seeing them on the configurator either. Generally VW UK press cars are usually the correct spec for the UK market (unlike Audi) but this just shows what a mess the supply chain is in. 50 section profile on 18s might just be the additional bit of compliance it needs.
it’s actually a good car robin the higher seating position is great and good viability all around i’ve had golfs and a t roc and they are very similar the t roc cabin seems a bit more airy and i think they are slightly wider than the golf as seems more shoulder room in the front it’s also got a bigger boot than the golf and it’s surprising how much it will take each to their own i guess
Thanks Rasher basher! Got to agree as it's not just bigger and more useful but it's standard ride height means they can ace ride and handling. £2500 over the hatch though will be hard sell as we know what happens to estate prices on the used market so PCP will cost a lot more⬇
T Roc ‘hard’ - Genius. UK roads ruin my driving experience and will only get worse. Powered tailgates should be standard. Always look forward to your varied content.
Thanks Sean, glad you got that and watched right through to end. Much appreciated. I think power tailgate has been culled due to semi-conductor and Ukraine problems but it would be a deal breaker for me largely because it's that bit higher up than a Golf's when open. German press cars had them so it's not impossible, just a question of waiting (and waiting..)
Good thoughtful video as always. The problem for this car is that it is eclipsed by the Hyundai Kona N in terms of ‘perceived’ value, in a way that the Golf R is not eclipsed by the Hyundai i30N. I think that the Kona N is only front wheel drive ….. hence the use of the word ‘perceived’. The Golf R has established itself as almost a cult brand, in a way that I doubt that this can.
Another great review.. Thankyou.. I always wondered what the main component differences engine wise between my Polo GTI Plus and the T_roc or club sport S were.. I do get its 4Motion thought..
Thanks Marky! The big difference between those 3 is not the engine but the rear suspension as you've got torsion beam which was upgraded to fully independent rear suspension from Golf 5 (though since Mk7, lower power Golfs (and most T-Rocs still have torsion beam).
I'd look there first. I'm glad Andrew brought this up. My Arteon has an atrocious ride even over something as small as a manhole cover. This car has DCC and even in the "Comfort" setting is almost unacceptable. I've had the dealer check for the shipping chocks and they state they've been removed. The big wheels and low profile sidewall tires are the culprit I'm guessing.
I've heard about this before and would check on my own car if I'd just taken delivery from a main dealer but it would be very unusual for a press office car to have them left in. The only review I could find was of this very car and the verdict was exactly the same when it came to the ride (Keith Adams at Parkers). However it doesn't surprise me as VWs have got a lot stiffer recently and there was some performance benchmark for the T Roc R (can't remember what) that would required it put handling before ride quality
They did offer me a Touareg R e-hybrid last as it happens but didn't have time to review it while it was on fleet but will keep an eye out for future derivatives
Good video The infotainment looks the same as my 7.5 golf, which is a good thing because it works well. The AC bit looks the same as the Polo? The boot floor that moves but doesn't is crap.
Thanks Rob! Of all things I mentioned the boot floor was the one that I thought "maybe I am being stupid and you can lower it" but I really couldn't work it out and considering on Golf 8 you can do it in seconds with one hand it should need to take MENSA membership 😁
Roads in UK billiard table flat compared to Australia then add coarse chip bitumen and my Megane almost unbearable hence 2 buckled rims - the base 180kw Golf GTI here has DCC standard however in absence of the Clubsport not a fan. I will also await price correction as everything VAG selling for 10-15k over list. I think TRoc still on MQB architecture as opposed to Tiguan on SUV higher platform so don’t understand why so harsh? 19i alloys and DCC thankfully standard in Aus TRoc R as is DNF engine with 221kw and 400nm on 98 Ron fuel - ideal spec here would be Clubsport wagon with proper alloys 🎯🤩🥳
Clubsport Wagon -there's a thought! Closest is Golf R wagon. Sorry to hear your roads are worse than here. I hope your T Roc R has revised suspension settings then. Tiguan R is still on MQB isn't it? I don't think VW has a bespoke SUV platform. Don't recall Tiguan R being that busy either. I wondered if they'd been after a Nurburgring lap time with the facelift model but haven't found any evidence of that
I've got a MK8 GTI and quite fancied one of these for my next car, but much like the GTI I'd like the adaptive dampers to have an effective softer comfort setting rather than just hard or harder.
Blame the spring rates. I was expecting to see a new Nordschleife lap record with the facelift T Roc R which would explain the stiffness but can't see any reference to it having been there, even for development testing. Lots of footage of the original there though? Maybe that's the problem and it's been tweaked based on tests on a normal smooth circuit or test track and not the bumpy and lumpy Green Hell?
Recently driven a late pre facelift T-Roc R, very much enjoyed it. Changed my mind of the T-Roc overall. And comfortable even on 19’s. Great review Andrew. I wasn’t aware of the recall on the engine covers, I just thought they hadn’t bothered to put them back on!
My scirocco has DCC, in comfort mode it’s exactly the same. It can make you feel a bit travel sick if you forget to change it. How does it feel over pot holes though? The scirocco is harsh, it’s almost unbearable and it’s not relaxing having to constantly scan the roads for even small pot holes.
Your scirocco sounds similar to the T Roc R but you expect an SUV to ride better than a Coupe. I didn’t hit any potholes I can imagine what would happen 😬
If it’s anything like my Mk7 GTI, in Comfort it’s so soft it hits the bump stops quite easily giving the false impression of being rock hard - I even buckled an alloy like that. However if you only use it on undulating or rough surfaces it glides like an S Class. Normal and Sport mode everywhere else!
The worst thing about the prices is that a lot of the manufactures aimed for the £39.5k mark on a sensible spec so that people did not have the luxury car tax. Meaning that it more that the sticker price increase and the point on dealer deals not existing anymore.
Going below 40k RRP now is impossible on anything tasty. In the last year Golf 8 R went up from sub £40k to over £40k, I think VW did research and worked out the luxury car tax was no biggie to first owner, especially as it starts from year 2
That ride is a big issue if you live on the countryside ! Most of my driving is on narrow country lanes . I find my 2019 Cupra ST just ok but this car would be a step too far for me .Great review by the way . Thank you
Thank you for watching and commenting robtt. SEAT always set their cars up quite firmly because they are the sporty brand of the group (though my 2016 Cupra SC in comfort mode dampers is quite plush so wonder if LC got harder after the facelift?)
well done andrew another superb review personally i have always liked the t roc and we had one it is lovely to sit that bit higher and the boot is larger slightly than the golf and the cabin seems much more airy i think the improvements inside have made the car a lot better but i don’t understand the floating screens which appear an after thought our t roc had 17 inch wheels and was a lovely riding car comparable to the golf ours hadn’t got multi link rear or dcc all i can think is the larger wheels and different suspension setup maybe i agree about the back doors it’s awful it’s a sheet of black plastic and the golf was much nicer finished off at least in our case with 2 boys it was durable keep up the great work looking forward to the next one!
Hi Andrew, is the full spec of the T roc R available in the uk as I’ve just taken delivery 3 weeks ago and at the time of ordering around March I was told the beats upgrade option was no longer available. I also enquired about the matrix lights with the front grill led light which I was led to believe would come standard, my car didn’t come with the front grill so when I complained I was told it’s only on euro cars? Hopefully you can shed some light on this for me before I go back to the dealership as I’m feeling I bit fobbed off. Appreciate any info
Hi Christian, it's unusual for a VW UK press car to not match UK spec but these are weird times in the industry. All I can say is that the configurator is usually gospel and that doesn't show the IQ light option which means no light bar. The images show normal headlights. I didn't notice anything that said this wasn't available in the UK in the spec sheet but it does look like it. Likewise for Beats. This can only be to do with a shortage of components. If you ordered in March and have already got the car, that is quick and is the upside of the spec being quite limited.
All models in Oz so far seem to be high spec leather seats, reverse cam here now law, upgraded centre screen, electric tailgate and pan roof so AUD 70k seems reasonable as not much more than optioned GTI which only has 180kw here
I can see how that would appeal. Are these cars actually arriving in Oz? Interesting that rear camera is law over there, I really don't see the point as sensors are so good these days and I'd rather be looking at fronts and sides and listening for the beeps at the back.
@@volkswizard I put a deposit a month ago for a deep pearl black and it is supposed to arrive here in January, i test drove the first demo here in Victoria, so yeah they are coming
I have an ordinary t roc sel on 18 inch wheels. The B road ride is dreadful, 20 kg in the boot helps but… I have always had a sports car so am used to a firm ride. It’s the pitch and jiggle. I imagine an r is horrible.
Hey Pete, thanks for the staying loyal, appreciate it! The Fox jersey was because my wife said my black Troy Lee Designs top was too dark for safety so she bought me the blue one and I bought this plum one which I might keep for best (as you can imagine they don't last undamaged long on the trails).
Thanks Neil, that's very kind of you. A lot of channels have gone backwards in 2022 but ultimately the buck stops with me so if I give it my all in the autumn as my only job and can't make a go of it then the writing is on the wall I suppose and I'll get a proper job (car related of course!)
Hi a question for you if you don’t mind I’ve got a golf 7.5 DSG why do I have to manually put it into eco mode every time I start the engine as I enjoy the coasting as it’s great on fuel is there something in settings I can do to make it start in eco many thanks in advance 👍
I moaned about this in the end of term video on my Mk8 Clubsport. These cars always revert to normal even if the dash doesn't say so. It's so that if someone else drives it they don't find it weird that it coasts (or in Sport/Race mode that the gearbox appears to be broken 😁). I love coasting too, weird my Boxster does it in normal mode (no ECO mode) but at 3.4 litres and no turbo it needs all the help it can get to pass emissions tests 😉
You can get it coded where it automatically goes to eco. My friend works for Audi and he turned the start/stop off so when I turn the engine on it automatically turns it off. I’m sure an independent VW garage would sort this out for you as it’s an easy thing to do
J W , does the dealership offer that as a service they will so to customer cars? Turning off start stop affects emissions so it’s not strictly legal to do it
I am frustrated about this too. It won't stay in eco mode. Tired of having to reset it into eco every time to save fuel. It does make a difference too.
Still waiting on the car down under. We did not get the first version. The Akrapovic exhaust would not be an option. I saw a sold Tiguan R at a local dealer. A$86,000. PHEW. GOLF R I have seen one, no price and not fir sale due to no availability of another car. Cheers and all the best Andrew.
@@joshuaichimji yes I know the dealership. I have been there. My sister lives there. I'm in the west but visit Waverley or Brighton VW. My MkV Gti has needed service for worn out items. Cheers.
@@volkswizard Yes mate, I think I replied to one of your other posts on this. I saw you arrive but didn’t find you when I went wandering. Not the best weather for the event but good to see it back up and running after COVID.
If your wanting to save you channel as you mentioned why don't you broaden your field and review some viewer cars and film some POV content? Just a thought! Good luck! 🙏
VW interiors are a bit cheap and disappointing these days, the door cards especially are no better than Skoda. Andrew, have you seen the recent Mazda interiors, a lot better for the money.
I haven't taken much notice of Mazda but I will. Renault seems to have taken great steps forward too (not seen current Clio but apparently it's good inside) so with VW going backwards I wonder how close they are now?
Unless it offered significant additional rear leg room, I don’t know why anyone would chose this over a Golf R. I guess the SUV is just a popular vehicle type 🤷🏻♂️
As a piece of design, the Golf 8 interior (R or otherwise) is more cohesive and less cluttered plus material quality is better. But for many (not me) the near buttonless interior is a deal breaker. I wonder how much of that negativity is the (often ill informed) criticism from the wider motoring media which doesn't reflect the ease the system can be learned with sufficient wheel time by a real owner.
@@volkswizard I’ve owned a 7.5R and considered the 8R. Went to showroom and sat in it and was really really not impressed. The seats look like they have been stripped out of a trans pennine express train. VW must have had a young work experience group of people on it, because it’s a shambles. The touch sensitive buttons on the steering wheel with no backlight, plastic paddles, no backlight on the main console buttons either. VWs jewel in the crown is no more and is being overshadowed by the likes of this T-Roc
"hardcore"?!😂.. a heavy small suv which use FWD in 99.9% of running time, then even rarely when haldex is engaged, that SUV still works as FWD BIASED?! That rear diff is a tiny one, maybe adequated for a fiat panda 4x4 rear torque (in fact that haldex can handle a maximum of 250Nm for a very limited period of time)😂😂. What a JOKE. PS: Why VAG dropped TORSEN for awd medium non-premium cars, because understeering by weight distribution? Those transverse engine platforms with rear haldex it's proven to be even MORE understeering than torsen ones, but they loose all the torsen advantages (downshift engine- "brake" on 4 wheels, lightweight of central diff, NO MAITENANCE, reliability, efficiency in real slippery conditions)
I don’t understand why this guy doesn’t already got over 100k subs
That's very kind of you T v S - I can't blame anyone apart from myself though as success takes effort and I can't have been putting enough in. The workload of guys like Joe Achilles and Jay Emm is full on and they deserve all the success they've achieved (and 100k+ subs!)
Not bad though, more than doubled in the time I've been a subscriber
He’s a great car reviewer and goes into a good level of detail. I think half the problem is being the ‘volkswizard’ rather limits the reviews you can do to VAG products.
I’d like to see Andrew branch out into other manufacturers and appeal to a wider audience.
Probably because the competition doesn't send you to sleep 😴😴
Need a better camera and microphone imo.
I’ve had my T Roc R for 2 years now. (Previous car was a Golf R Estate). Overall, I really like it and the driving modes are noticeably different. The biggest issue is the lack of internal space - I could get nearly as much stuff in my Polo! I’ll be going back to the Estate next time. I spend most of the time in Comfort and surfing around on the huge torque. So unless they’ve changed the set-up in the facelift, I’ll have to disagree with you on that! I have 19” wheels & DCC too. It’s also a great car to drive in Normal & Sport.
You ca try the cupra ateca. Its boxy er and bigger inside. Im plenty happy with mine for the size
This why I prefer the Tiguan but obviously the r version wasn't out then
Hey Steve, I'd love to know if they have made suspension changes over the pre-facelift car, it wouldn't be unheard of. I'm normally pretty good on ride quality and that road I drove in the 2019 car was far from perfect and it was 19s and passive dampers. A mystery, going to do some research on the facelift R model right now. See if Benny Leuchter has been fiddling with it 🤣🤣
@@volkswizard will be interested to see what you come up with. I reckon there has been some fiddling going on, because my one rides like a limo in Comfort mode. Slightly more crashy in Normal but nothing I couldn’t live with. Local VW garage were pretty keen to “upgrade” me to a new one, but why bother when, as you say, there’s no 320bhp or clever rear diff…
I’ve had the Tiguan R had one of the first in the country I was putting £1400 a month in fuel 😅😅 worst car I’ve ever drove for petrol might as well have an Svr tbh but what a fun car lol😂 I miss it dearly
Very thorough review. I would take the Golf everyday.
If I had to choose it would be Golf too, purely based on ride quality. Shame as I really want to like the T Roc R. If it had 320ps, 357mm brakes and a slightly better DCC ride I'd be all in.
Quite like the chilled out format of the reviews that you do. Just a thought, would be interesting if you could do a comparison video between the most basic spec of a model vs its most spec'ed out equivalent
Glad you enjoyed in Daniel, I've only got one speed unless its raining as per original T Roc video from March this year! I think that video is a great idea, might be tricky to get the 2 cars unless a main dealer has got them. It's safe to say options play a big part these days.
@@volkswizard It would be interesting, technically reviewing one car, but for two different target markets and can make some comparisons, can imagine it would be difficult to source though
Great video Andrew. I have a 7.5R on passive dampers on 19" Pretoria wheels and find the ride to be perfectly balanced. I found the ride on my previous Polo GTI 6C with DCC to be a bit firmer surprisingly.
Thanks Adam. Ride quality is subjective but I try and keep an open mind. 7.5R just about gets away with the ride on 19s but ultimately it depends on where you drive. My commute was smooth roads and motorways so it wouldn't bother me on a regular basis but there are certain counties where the rural roads are pretty wrecked. Obviously Golf R sitting lower can get a better balance of ride and handling, start jacking them up and something has to give.
@@volkswizard oh 100% subjective. My car does motorway miles mostly so not having it really doesn’t matter to me. I had disregarded the fact the T-Roc is higher. Still a great car for the money
Thanks Adam. Big difference with any Polo and a performance Golf is that Polo has a rudimentary torsion beam rear suspension system rather than independent so much harder to balance ride and handling (a high riding, torsion beam, 'sporty' SUV will be hideous!). Also Polo 6C (correct me if I am wrong) has switchable dampers (don't think it's still called DCC) rather than adaptive so again it's bit less sophisticated than DCC on a Golf. But on a Polo GTI I think VW (like SEAT do on nearly every model) feel they can get away with a firm ride as it's sporty. I always thought R models were meant to be a little more comfortable than a GTI hence why I'm confused by T Roc R.
@@volkswizard I definitely feel a difference when I get out of the Polo into the Golf with the ride quality (and quality in general as expected). It is just switchable dampers just labelled as DCC in the brochure. When activated the ride is unbearably bouncy and since I've sold the car to my brother, he openly admits he has never pressed the sport button due to the single time I pressed it when I owned it. The high riding, torsion beam sporty SUV would probably come down to a T-Cross R. A car we probably will never see. It's embarrassing to admit I've never driven a mk7/7.5 GTI. I must get behind the wheel at some point to see how it compares. I think in the situation of looking at a brand new T-Roc R, I'd consider a used Tiguan R or Golf. Dealers have openly admitted the T-Roc R is a poor seller in my area of the North East.
Would love your comparison of the cupra formentor vz 310, I love it and prefer it looks wise over the t-roc even though its on the same platform, if you need one to compare then let me know 😉😉
Thanks Gavin! Thanks also for the offer of your Formentor, very kind BUT that's why Cupra has a press office and press fleet of cars. I think yours is the 3rd request for a Formentor 310 video and I'd love to review one. As I've said elsewhere, I've asked Cupra UK but so far I've been ignored, weird as they lend cars out to other RUclipsrs who get a lot fewer views on VWG products, though there is a key difference in our reviewing style. For the moment, we'll have to make do with my drive of a Formentor 310 at Goodyear's Mireval test track, it was used to demonstrate wet grip of the new Assymetric 6 vs the old Assymetric 5, video live in early September👍
@@volkswizard It's a shame they are blanking you, I have a new Cupra Ateca and having come from VW it is obviously familiar to me but has its own identity as well. Also the blue leather seats with copper stitching are a really great look in them.
I have a friend who regrets buying the Formentor due to the lack of boot space and the value has plummeted whereas the T-roc R seems to have held its value well.
I tell myself every now and then I should sell my mk5 gti but every morning I get in her to drive to work and the feeling I get driving her then I think to myself damn I love this car and I quickly forget this stupid thought..lol
I totally get that 😎
I wouldn't, if I was you - the Mk5 GTi is still a brilliant car. I'm always tempted to get a Mk5 R32 one day...
Dont sell it!!
@@andrewmcivor42 I tried lol
Any chance you could review a Cupra Formentor , just px'd my Mk7.5 Golf for one, and I much prefer the Cupra in every way.
There will be some Formetor footage in the Goodyear Assymetric 6 review video filmed at the Goodyear test track in the south of France which will drop next month. I've emailed Cupra UK press office about Formentor and Born and they don't seem to want to engage with me, they seem to prefer to lend cars to RUclipsrs who don't give critical reviews (and therefore who you shouldn't take seriously)
@@volkswizard Happy to let you review mine if you don't live too far away.
Great choice. I've gone for the Formentor VZx as well, eta on mine is 3 weeks. I haven't driven the new T-Roc R, deliveries don't hit Australian shores for another 3 months or so. Drive away pricing for the T-Roc R is within a couple of dollars of the Cupra here. Tiguan R is $10K to $15K more with a lengthy wait list.
I think the older style interior of the T-Roc R (DSG lever, separate climate controls etc) may be better functionally than the Formentor's, otherwise, I think the Formentor is far more desirable; and rare as hen's teeth in Australia.
Be interesting to hear Andrew's opinion on the Formentor, given all his experience with VAG products.
I love my '21 Tiguan up here in the arctic! 4motion = never get stuck
Only mentions of lane assist are how annoying it is and how to switch the bugger off.
Gotta say, that's a fair representation of my experience.
With the latest RUclips update (Nov 22) I’ve no idea whether I’ve subscribed or not or even how to. Change isn’t always progress? Enjoyed review so much last time thought I’d watch it again. 🚙
Very comprehensive review. The ride quality appears same as golf R 7.5.
Would be interested in a comparison with a top spec cupra formentor
I've tried. All I can say is some manufacturers don't like engaging with channels like mine where critical opinions are given. It's different with traditional media like Autocar, Evo etc who they have to engage with and bigger RUclipsrs like Joe Achilles and who do a great job of unbiased and critical reviewing. However not lending me a car is not headline news. What's interesting is that they do lend cars to smaller RUclipsrs with similar subs and view numbers but who aren't doing critical reviews, just saying it's all 'fantastic' and getting smaller viewer numbers on VWG cars, read from that what you will...
That must be really frustrating! I'm taking delivery of a formentor vz3 in a couple of weeks, replacing my mk3 TT. Test drove a Mk8 R but found the interior of the formentor to be far superior.
Hi . Got VW T-Roc 2021 but doesn’t have auto cruise 😢 . Is that normal
I do have one of these down here is Australia. I traded in my Alfa Giulia base model to get it. I have to say that the Alfa's driving experience is incredible, but this is an SUV so not that fair to compare. Although, this is far more powerful than the base Giulia.
Anyway, I do really enjoy the TROC-R. It's a monster really. The power that's on tap here is nuts. Can't believe they can get all that out of a 2L 4CL engine... A bit too noisy (seems to try too hard to sound good), and a bit stiff in the ride as you pointed out. But, the practicality of the vehicle combined with the driving pleasure tips the scales in it's favour for me. I can just throw my golf clubs in the boot and off we go. The family fits in easily and we use my car to go places now, which we didn't before.
I must say though... I find that the gearing is odd. I drove my Alfa in dynamic mode, the sportiest setting, all the time. Power was always on tap (not as much, but I never had to gear manually), and it didn't make all that noise. When it did, it was rather pleasant. The TROC-R lags a bit, even in S mode with Individual settings applied to make things a little softer. Never had that problem with the Alfa. I find myself needing to gear down because the vehicle is always too quick to gear up, and its noisy AF otherwise. I'm getting used to it, but I reckon the Giulia Veloce would be a near perfect drive for me as it just about the same amount of power as the TROC-R, and that Alfa Giulia drive is second to none.
But, I digress! I got this because it's practical and powerful yet fun at the same time. Mission accomplished.
Another well balanced review. I don't "get" the whole performance SUV type cars at all though, the off-road settings made me laugh (there's no way anyone will take this off-road, I don't think). If you want a more practical alternative to a Golf 8 R, then there's the R Estate (as you said) - I think the Golf R works best as an estate, personally (but I'm biased🤣).
Think you've nailed it at the end with the choppy ride - a tall SUV type car will have compromises as far as ride/handling goes (basic physics, I guess). My 7.5 R estate (DCC) rides plushly on 19" wheels, even in "Normal " mode.
The interior looks decent - I prefer the seats to the 8 R & the whole control setup. Detest those stupid temperature controls though - give me the nicely damped knobs from the 7/7.5 any day!
Always felt the T-roc in general was a Polo specced car for Golf money - illustrated by the premium sound system being Beats, instead of the Harmon Kardon. Beats is ok (my Wife had it in her old Up! Beats TSi), but not a patch on the 7/7.5 Dynaudio (& probably not the HK system in Golf 8 either).
The T- roc R sounds like the 7.5 R in engine & transmission spec.
Fair point about Beats being more Polo (and Up!) than Golf. T-Roc has always confused me about whether it's Golf or Polo. Mk1 Tiguan was clearly a MK6 Golf based car, then it got bigger with Mk2 and left room for something Golf ish size to go in below and we got T Roc 1 year later. T Cross is resolutely Polo based so at least that's clear.
It is indeed same spec as 300 PS 7.5R but engine is definitely the Evo 3 version as in Golf 8 Clubsport so it's a bit better on fuel and Co2. Also it shouldn't leak coolant from thermostat housing 👿
@@volkswizard confuses me as well! The thermostat housing leaking is something I'll need to keep an eye on in the future, I guess
Hi Andrew.
Great review as always. VW UK; make him your go to reviewer for the entire UK range!
Unbiased and interesting.
Agree with other comments here; what's the point? Expensive, small boot and harsh ride.
How safe is this car in the winter on the icy roads ? Does it have a good grip ?
Interesting fact, thats the same numberplate that was on the press Scirocco R Line a number of years ago!
Top nerding J K🤓👍
It's the same chassis as the vw Taos they sale in North and South America, but without that powerfull engine, only with 1.5 158 horses and 184 PFT.
That gives me an I dia I am going to swap the original Taos engine with a Golf R mark 8
the transmission I think is the same as my 4MOTION 7speed DSG
There's been some incredible lease deals on these the last month or so. Tempted to chop in my Tiguan
Really? I'm surprised there are deals on anything but the VW website says there are cars in stock so you could get one quicker than expected. Problem with lease deals is add on the options and they aren't so cheap
@@volkswizard we’ve got 7 new T Roc R’s in at my dealer that are still unsold and they’ve been here for months.
@@volkswizard p
@@volkswizard my dealer listers worcester has a event on at the moment with trade in offers over the whole range
Shame about the ride quality I like cars like this good ground clearance with good handling
Another interesting and informative video, Andrew. When you start adding options onto an already expensive car, like the matrix headlights but at £1600 seems excessive.
Interesting that your car has matrix headlights - I have one on order and I’ve been told by vw that matrix headlights (which are supposed to be standard on the R) aren’t available at the moment - no light bar either - but then I guess the press car won’t be representative of what’s actually available to normal folk. The lack of electric boot is unforgivable given that other markets get it. Mine will be on 18s so I’m interested to see what the ride will be like. Great review though as always Andrew!
Thanks Chris! It dawned on me that the semi-conductor crisis/Ukraine might be impacting the desire for VW to put unnecessary electronics on cars hence why the power tailgate is n/a. You are right about the headlights, I don't actually recall seeing them on the configurator either. Generally VW UK press cars are usually the correct spec for the UK market (unlike Audi) but this just shows what a mess the supply chain is in. 50 section profile on 18s might just be the additional bit of compliance it needs.
I really fail to see the point of the T-Roc over the Golf. And in this R guise, leaves me totally disinterested.
I think for some the fact it hasn't been photographed in the window of most high street jewellers is its appeal
it’s actually a good car robin the higher seating position is great and good viability all around i’ve had golfs and a t roc and they are very similar the t roc cabin seems a bit more airy and i think they are slightly wider than the golf as seems more shoulder room in the front
it’s also got a bigger boot than the golf and it’s surprising how much it will take each to their own i guess
I love my Tiguan, but I wish Volkswagen would offer more to the U.S market. Like port and direct injection instead of just direct lol
Those bus seat patterns are horrible.
I definitely prefer the lower key trim in GTI CS but it needs some colour in there to lift it
That's why u get it in leather
😂 Yeah they definitely ordered that cloth from Arriva! 🚍
Another great video Andrew thank you 👍 prefer a golf r estate really.
Thanks Rasher basher! Got to agree as it's not just bigger and more useful but it's standard ride height means they can ace ride and handling. £2500 over the hatch though will be hard sell as we know what happens to estate prices on the used market so PCP will cost a lot more⬇
T Roc ‘hard’ - Genius. UK roads ruin my driving experience and will only get worse. Powered tailgates should be standard. Always look forward to your varied content.
Thanks Sean, glad you got that and watched right through to end. Much appreciated. I think power tailgate has been culled due to semi-conductor and Ukraine problems but it would be a deal breaker for me largely because it's that bit higher up than a Golf's when open. German press cars had them so it's not impossible, just a question of waiting (and waiting..)
Good thoughtful video as always. The problem for this car is that it is eclipsed by the Hyundai Kona N in terms of ‘perceived’ value, in a way that the Golf R is not eclipsed by the Hyundai i30N. I think that the Kona N is only front wheel drive ….. hence the use of the word ‘perceived’. The Golf R has established itself as almost a cult brand, in a way that I doubt that this can.
Another great review.. Thankyou.. I always wondered what the main component differences engine wise between my Polo GTI Plus and the T_roc or club sport S were.. I do get its 4Motion thought..
Thanks Marky! The big difference between those 3 is not the engine but the rear suspension as you've got torsion beam which was upgraded to fully independent rear suspension from Golf 5 (though since Mk7, lower power Golfs (and most T-Rocs still have torsion beam).
Think i'd rather have a X2 M35i to be honest.
Is it possible the transport chocks were still in? Happens quite a lot
I'd look there first. I'm glad Andrew brought this up. My Arteon has an atrocious ride even over something as small as a manhole cover. This car has DCC and even in the "Comfort" setting is almost unacceptable. I've had the dealer check for the shipping chocks and they state they've been removed. The big wheels and low profile sidewall tires are the culprit I'm guessing.
I've heard about this before and would check on my own car if I'd just taken delivery from a main dealer but it would be very unusual for a press office car to have them left in. The only review I could find was of this very car and the verdict was exactly the same when it came to the ride (Keith Adams at Parkers). However it doesn't surprise me as VWs have got a lot stiffer recently and there was some performance benchmark for the T Roc R (can't remember what) that would required it put handling before ride quality
@@volkswizard when I worked at a Volkswagen dealer it was shocking how many would accidentally get left in by accident.
Would be interested in a Touareg review since VW press finally acknowledged you.
They did offer me a Touareg R e-hybrid last as it happens but didn't have time to review it while it was on fleet but will keep an eye out for future derivatives
Good video The infotainment looks the same as my 7.5 golf, which is a good thing because it works well. The AC bit looks the same as the Polo? The boot floor that moves but doesn't is crap.
Thanks Rob! Of all things I mentioned the boot floor was the one that I thought "maybe I am being stupid and you can lower it" but I really couldn't work it out and considering on Golf 8 you can do it in seconds with one hand it should need to take MENSA membership 😁
Was trying to work out what a Golf A R was then realised it was a Golf 8 R! Going deaf in my old age! Keep up the good work.
Thanks Howard! Probably my mumbling but glad you got the message in the end👍
Roads in UK billiard table flat compared to Australia then add coarse chip bitumen and my Megane almost unbearable hence 2 buckled rims - the base 180kw Golf GTI here has DCC standard however in absence of the Clubsport not a fan. I will also await price correction as everything VAG selling for 10-15k over list. I think TRoc still on MQB architecture as opposed to Tiguan on SUV higher platform so don’t understand why so harsh? 19i alloys and DCC thankfully standard in Aus TRoc R as is DNF engine with 221kw and 400nm on 98 Ron fuel - ideal spec here would be Clubsport wagon with proper alloys 🎯🤩🥳
Clubsport Wagon -there's a thought! Closest is Golf R wagon. Sorry to hear your roads are worse than here. I hope your T Roc R has revised suspension settings then. Tiguan R is still on MQB isn't it? I don't think VW has a bespoke SUV platform. Don't recall Tiguan R being that busy either. I wondered if they'd been after a Nurburgring lap time with the facelift model but haven't found any evidence of that
I am pleased we finally get the club sport engine in Oz the Cupra VZx here now as I’d buy this over the TRoc R I think 🤔
Question
Do you know when the 20R Golf R is being released 🤔 ???????
Good question, no. VW are putting videos out about it and it needs to be this year or it's too late!
I've got a MK8 GTI and quite fancied one of these for my next car, but much like the GTI I'd like the adaptive dampers to have an effective softer comfort setting rather than just hard or harder.
Blame the spring rates. I was expecting to see a new Nordschleife lap record with the facelift T Roc R which would explain the stiffness but can't see any reference to it having been there, even for development testing. Lots of footage of the original there though? Maybe that's the problem and it's been tweaked based on tests on a normal smooth circuit or test track and not the bumpy and lumpy Green Hell?
Supposed to be critiquing the troc r and alls he goes on about is the clubsport🤯
Thanks Andrew, honest and subjective review as always. 👍
Thanks as always Graeme 👍
Recently driven a late pre facelift T-Roc R, very much enjoyed it. Changed my mind of the T-Roc overall. And comfortable even on 19’s.
Great review Andrew. I wasn’t aware of the recall on the engine covers, I just thought they hadn’t bothered to put them back on!
My scirocco has DCC, in comfort mode it’s exactly the same. It can make you feel a bit travel sick if you forget to change it. How does it feel over pot holes though? The scirocco is harsh, it’s almost unbearable and it’s not relaxing having to constantly scan the roads for even small pot holes.
Your scirocco sounds similar to the T Roc R but you expect an SUV to ride better than a Coupe. I didn’t hit any potholes I can imagine what would happen 😬
If it’s anything like my Mk7 GTI, in Comfort it’s so soft it hits the bump stops quite easily giving the false impression of being rock hard - I even buckled an alloy like that. However if you only use it on undulating or rough surfaces it glides like an S Class. Normal and Sport mode everywhere else!
The worst thing about the prices is that a lot of the manufactures aimed for the £39.5k mark on a sensible spec so that people did not have the luxury car tax. Meaning that it more that the sticker price increase and the point on dealer deals not existing anymore.
Going below 40k RRP now is impossible on anything tasty. In the last year Golf 8 R went up from sub £40k to over £40k, I think VW did research and worked out the luxury car tax was no biggie to first owner, especially as it starts from year 2
It actually looks ok from the side for an SUV. Obv it's not my kind of thing but it's much better looking than other SUVs plus it has a VW badge 👍
That ride is a big issue if you live on the countryside ! Most of my driving is on narrow country lanes . I find my 2019 Cupra ST just ok but this car would be a step too far for me .Great review by the way . Thank you
Thank you for watching and commenting robtt. SEAT always set their cars up quite firmly because they are the sporty brand of the group (though my 2016 Cupra SC in comfort mode dampers is quite plush so wonder if LC got harder after the facelift?)
If i had no imagination and too many children and wanted to race teenagers in fiesta ST’s I’d buy one
Surely you are mistaking it for a Golf R?😂
You remain one of the best reviewers of cars, with a considered and real world view
well done andrew another superb review personally i have always liked the t roc and we had one it is lovely to sit that bit higher and the boot is larger slightly than the golf and the cabin seems much more airy
i think the improvements inside have made the car a lot better but i don’t understand the floating screens which appear an after thought
our t roc had 17 inch wheels and was a lovely riding car comparable to the golf ours hadn’t got multi link rear or dcc all i can think is the larger wheels and different suspension setup maybe
i agree about the back doors it’s awful it’s a sheet of black plastic and the golf was much nicer finished off at least in our case with 2 boys it was durable
keep up the great work looking forward to the next one!
Hi Andrew, is the full spec of the T roc R available in the uk as I’ve just taken delivery 3 weeks ago and at the time of ordering around March I was told the beats upgrade option was no longer available. I also enquired about the matrix lights with the front grill led light which I was led to believe would come standard, my car didn’t come with the front grill so when I complained I was told it’s only on euro cars? Hopefully you can shed some light on this for me before I go back to the dealership as I’m feeling I bit fobbed off. Appreciate any info
Hi Christian, it's unusual for a VW UK press car to not match UK spec but these are weird times in the industry. All I can say is that the configurator is usually gospel and that doesn't show the IQ light option which means no light bar. The images show normal headlights. I didn't notice anything that said this wasn't available in the UK in the spec sheet but it does look like it. Likewise for Beats. This can only be to do with a shortage of components. If you ordered in March and have already got the car, that is quick and is the upside of the spec being quite limited.
Thanks, I’ll look into it a bit more
Brilliant review and very informative. Well done!
Thanks Andrew
All models in Oz so far seem to be high spec leather seats, reverse cam here now law, upgraded centre screen, electric tailgate and pan roof so AUD 70k seems reasonable as not much more than optioned GTI which only has 180kw here
I can see how that would appeal. Are these cars actually arriving in Oz? Interesting that rear camera is law over there, I really don't see the point as sensors are so good these days and I'd rather be looking at fronts and sides and listening for the beeps at the back.
@@volkswizard I put a deposit a month ago for a deep pearl black and it is supposed to arrive here in January, i test drove the first demo here in Victoria, so yeah they are coming
Yes even our cheapest car here the MG3 has a reverse camera but sensors not mandatory stupidly
Do they still require 98ron? Considering moving from my Golf 7.5 R
@@davidebbs2797 yes still require 98
Andrew how tall are you please
6 feet
I have an ordinary t roc sel on 18 inch wheels. The B road ride is dreadful, 20 kg in the boot helps but… I have always had a sports car so am used to a firm ride. It’s the pitch and jiggle. I imagine an r is horrible.
Another great video Andrew. Informative and interesting. Also loving the Fox Jersey too 😎 (Pete from 2Wheels)
Hey Pete, thanks for the staying loyal, appreciate it! The Fox jersey was because my wife said my black Troy Lee Designs top was too dark for safety so she bought me the blue one and I bought this plum one which I might keep for best (as you can imagine they don't last undamaged long on the trails).
Thanks for your work.
I hope this channel takes off and that things pick up overall.
Thanks Neil, that's very kind of you. A lot of channels have gone backwards in 2022 but ultimately the buck stops with me so if I give it my all in the autumn as my only job and can't make a go of it then the writing is on the wall I suppose and I'll get a proper job (car related of course!)
@@volkswizard fingers crossed but us loyal subscribers who have been with you for a long time are right behind you
@@volkswizard fingers crossed but us loyal subscribers who have been with you for a long time are right behind you
Hi a question for you if you don’t mind I’ve got a golf 7.5 DSG why do I have to manually put it into eco mode every time I start the engine as I enjoy the coasting as it’s great on fuel is there something in settings I can do to make it start in eco many thanks in advance 👍
I moaned about this in the end of term video on my Mk8 Clubsport. These cars always revert to normal even if the dash doesn't say so. It's so that if someone else drives it they don't find it weird that it coasts (or in Sport/Race mode that the gearbox appears to be broken 😁). I love coasting too, weird my Boxster does it in normal mode (no ECO mode) but at 3.4 litres and no turbo it needs all the help it can get to pass emissions tests 😉
You can get it coded where it automatically goes to eco. My friend works for Audi and he turned the start/stop off so when I turn the engine on it automatically turns it off. I’m sure an independent VW garage would sort this out for you as it’s an easy thing to do
J W , does the dealership offer that as a service they will so to customer cars? Turning off start stop affects emissions so it’s not strictly legal to do it
Thanks for replying 👍
I am frustrated about this too. It won't stay in eco mode. Tired of having to reset it into eco every time to save fuel. It does make a difference too.
Still waiting on the car down under. We did not get the first version. The Akrapovic exhaust would not be an option. I saw a sold Tiguan R at a local dealer. A$86,000. PHEW. GOLF R I have seen one, no price and not fir sale due to no availability of another car. Cheers and all the best Andrew.
Thanks Philip, appreciate the Oz feedback. Hope it arrives with you soon👍
If your in Victoria Berwick Volkswagen have now got one for display, just arrived yesterday 👍
@@joshuaichimji yes I know the dealership. I have been there. My sister lives there. I'm in the west but visit Waverley or Brighton VW. My MkV Gti has needed service for worn out items. Cheers.
Great video! T-Roc or Audi Q3 Sportback ... thoughts?
Great video, very informative. Top quality VW content as always
U would only get this over the golf r if u needed more space and then it's not much more!!! So golf r thanks.
I have good things about the fermenter v2 with the same ea888 gen3 310ps r engine
Me too, just need Cupra UK to reply to messages and loan me one
Nice rounded review as always Andrew. Hope you are keeping well.
Thanks Darren, glad you enjoyed it. All OK here, hope things are with you too? Did you make it to Stanford Hall this year as I didn't see you
@@volkswizard Yes mate, I think I replied to one of your other posts on this. I saw you arrive but didn’t find you when I went wandering. Not the best weather for the event but good to see it back up and running after COVID.
Great review as per usual. True old school VW man but with honest views.
If your wanting to save you channel as you mentioned why don't you broaden your field and review some viewer cars and film some POV content? Just a thought! Good luck! 🙏
VW interiors are a bit cheap and disappointing these days, the door cards especially are no better than Skoda.
Andrew, have you seen the recent Mazda interiors, a lot better for the money.
I haven't taken much notice of Mazda but I will. Renault seems to have taken great steps forward too (not seen current Clio but apparently it's good inside) so with VW going backwards I wonder how close they are now?
What is the cost please
Unless it offered significant additional rear leg room, I don’t know why anyone would chose this over a Golf R. I guess the SUV is just a popular vehicle type 🤷🏻♂️
When I review SUVs I have to accept that people like them even if I would struggle to justify additional mpg costs just to sit a bit higher
So True. If they could have stretched it 2 inches in the back seat and given it tilting rear backrests be good dimensions for taking four adults.
Hi mom
👍👍
Sounds like broken vacum cleaner
The black plastic over the wheel arches makes it look cheap
Shame they didn’t extend them a bit like on Mk1 Tiguan R line
it’s actually a good idea slammin i had some bad stone chips on my t roc when i had it and was cheaper to swap out wheelarch cover than painting it!
Great in depth video as always thanks 👍
Thanks Jay, it's tricky to be detailed but to not get too nerdy. Glad you enjoyed it though
Another great video! Thanks as always! 😊
Thanks again JBJ!
What even is the point in this car?
Great review as usual 👍
Thanks again Mo!
Ancient gear shifter 👎🏼😫
The interior on this in my opinion trumps the Golf R by a significant margin.
As a piece of design, the Golf 8 interior (R or otherwise) is more cohesive and less cluttered plus material quality is better. But for many (not me) the near buttonless interior is a deal breaker. I wonder how much of that negativity is the (often ill informed) criticism from the wider motoring media which doesn't reflect the ease the system can be learned with sufficient wheel time by a real owner.
@@volkswizard I’ve owned a 7.5R and considered the 8R. Went to showroom and sat in it and was really really not impressed. The seats look like they have been stripped out of a trans pennine express train. VW must have had a young work experience group of people on it, because it’s a shambles. The touch sensitive buttons on the steering wheel with no backlight, plastic paddles, no backlight on the main console buttons either. VWs jewel in the crown is no more and is being overshadowed by the likes of this T-Roc
@@volkswizard We now know VW heard those howls loud and clear.
Too much yap not related to the T roc
"hardcore"?!😂.. a heavy small suv which use FWD in 99.9% of running time, then even rarely when haldex is engaged, that SUV still works as FWD BIASED?! That rear diff is a tiny one, maybe adequated for a fiat panda 4x4 rear torque (in fact that haldex can handle a maximum of 250Nm for a very limited period of time)😂😂. What a JOKE.
PS: Why VAG dropped TORSEN for awd medium non-premium cars, because understeering by weight distribution? Those transverse engine platforms with rear haldex it's proven to be even MORE understeering than torsen ones, but they loose all the torsen advantages (downshift engine- "brake" on 4 wheels, lightweight of central diff, NO MAITENANCE, reliability, efficiency in real slippery conditions)
Hardcore referred to the ride.
Sponsored by Volkswagen.
Stupidest comment so far, well done M C👏👏👏
Long live knobs!
😁
if I'd paid more and lost my knob I wouldn't be happy 😆
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Interesting, thanks
Thanks for watching!
Indifferent and ugly car as new golf gti / R .
🙂👍
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What a bout sun roof
On my short list
Thanks again for sharing