SPY PICS: Volkswagen T-Roc R outed

Spy photographers have been relentlessly pursuing the hot R version of Volkswagen’s sub-Tiguan SUV, the T-Roc, and this latest round of pics shows subtle differences in the details depicted in our most recent story which featured the more cosmetically-inclined R-Design version.

Indications are that this latest round of spy shots captures the real type R deal.

Hands up those who have already spotted the significant differences in the front-end, where a more aggressive approach is taken to scooping-in extra air via more pronounced venting?

And, at the back, there’s the use of larger-bore, round quad exhaust outlets stemming from the 213kW/380Nm Golf R-sourced powerplant. The previous car featured slightly smaller, ovalised outlets.

And although the wheel-arch extensions appear the same, the actual wheels – both look to be 19 inches – are different too, with slimmer, cast-alloy spokes contrasting with the flatter, machine-finished look of the R-Line version previously shown.

The disc brake rotors peering out from behind the 5/10-spoke wheels look larger as well.

As we have previously reported, the standard VW Golf-based T-Roc has been delayed for Australia due to European demand and is now unlikely to be seen here before 2020.

However, the delay could mean Volkswagen Group Australia introduces the R version you see here alongside the standard T-Roc from launch.

Before then, in late 2019, Volkswagen Australia will launch the even smaller, Polo-based VW T-Cross, which will slot below the Tiguan as the German brand’s first compact SUV, and its first direct rival for the likes of Mazda’s CX-3 and Honda’s HR-V.