Volkswagen has unveiled the T-Roc R, a high-riding version of the Golf R performance hatchback.

Powering the T-Roc R is the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine as the Golf R, which produces 221kW (300PS) of power and 400Nm (295lb-ft) of torque. It drives all four wheels through a Haldex AWD system and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. VW claims it can sprint from 0-100km/h (62mph) in 4.9 seconds, towards an electronically-limited 250km/h (155mph) top speed.

Under the skin, the hot T-Roc gets the same adaptive dampers, variable steering, performance brakes and Track drive mode as its hatchback cousin, while also featuring an off-road mode that can tailor the car for dirt and non-tarmac terrain.

Visually, the R can be differentiated from its regular counterparts by more aggressive bumpers with larger intakes, black grille, bigger side sills, quad exhuasts and sporty alloy wheels up to 19 inches in size.

Inside, there are new front sports seats trimmed in Nappa leather, in addition to a flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters, R badging and blue dahboard trim.

The car on show in Geneva is a “near-production concept”. However, a completely identical vehicle will go on sale later this year in Europe.