Volkswagen says it is attempting to satisfy demand from performance-hungry SUV buyers in Australia with a pair of special-edition models based on the new 2022 Volkswagen T-Roc R and the bigger Volkswagen Tiguan R.
Both ‘Grid Edition’ models have less equipment than the respective full-time Volkswagen Tiguan R and T-Roc R, and are priced $5000 cheaper as a result.
According to Volkswagen, the lower-spec cars will enable the company to get more R performance stock on the ground amid continuing supply constraints caused by the global semi-conductor shortage.
The 2022 Volkswagen T-Roc R Grid Edition is priced from $54,300 plus on-road costs, while the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan R Grid Edition starts at $63,990 plus ORCs.
VW dealerships across the country will begin taking orders this week, ahead of first customer deliveries in December.
Just 300 of each Grid Edition will be available in the first allocation. More will become available in 2023, however Volkswagen is yet to confirm numbers.
As you’d expect, there’s been no messing with the mechanical bits that make the R-rated models so appealing, most notably the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (221kW in T-Roc, 235kW in Tiguan) that combines with a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel drive.
So what’s missing?
Some of the features removed in order “to support production”, as Volkswagen puts it, include IQ.LIGHT Matrix LED headlights, plush Nappa leather seats with heating up front, chrome exterior trim accents, an electric tailgate and key safety systems such as proactive passenger protection, side assist and rear cross traffic alert.
Specific to the Tiguan R mid-size SUV, Grid Edition variants will also miss out on an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and head-up display.
With less of an emphasis on luxury, the incoming Grid Editions will aim to impart a sportier feel in the cabin, offering R Sport seats covered in a cloth/microfleece upholstery and finished in a blue/black colour scheme.
The T-Roc R Grid Edition small SUV will ride on 19-inch Pretoria Graphite alloy wheels and feature black roof rails, performance LED headlights with Light Assist, and Grid Edition badging.
On top of that, the Tiguan R Grid Edition will add a Black Style package, including a black grille and body trim, and black door mirrors.
Exterior colour options include metallic Lapiz Blue or Deep Black Pearl, as well as a grey metallic option for each: Indium Grey for T-Roc R GE and Dolphin Grey for Tiguan R GE.
A panoramic sunroof is the only option for the T-Roc R and Tiguan R special-editions, at $2000 and $2100 respectively.
“We’ve added plenty of sporty style to support the R performance our customers love, and even better, they’ll love the overall price and package,” said Volkswagen Australia’s product chief for passenger cars, Michelle Rowney.
Said to be inspired by the Golf R Grid Edition released back in 2018, Volkswagen said the company’s focus will remain on the pair of SUVs, with Rowney shutting down any hopes of another special Grid Edition of its popular hot hatch.
“We won’t be getting Golf R Grid Edition, unfortunately,” she said.
How much does the 2022 Volkswagen T-Roc R cost?
R – $59,300
R Grid Edition – $54,300
*Prices exclude on-road costs
How much does the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan R cost?
R – $68,990
R Grid Edition – $63,990
*Prices exclude on-road costs