VOLKSWAGEN

Scirocco

With its new styling lines, there’s still no mistaking the identity of the Scirocco. Already scooping awards and accolades galore, it boasts the title of being the most dynamic and technically advanced coupe model ever made by VW.

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Test Drive

VW Scirocco R 2.0 TSI 280PS automatic

With so many cars morphing into one another these days it’s refreshing when a manufacturer produces a model that stands out from the crowd – the VW Scirocco does just that.

The third generation model has been given a makeover with a refined new appearance complete with refreshed headlights and tail lights, as well as revised bumper styling.

Additional eye candy guaranteed to turn heads includes LED daytime running lights, 19-inch alloys, black brake callipers complete with the R logo, a rear roof spoiler, heat insulated tinted glass, an R styling pack which introduces specifically shaped front and rear bumpers, radiator grille and side skirts, twin tail pipes and R badging just in case you should forget that this particular Scirocco is a little bit special!

The interior is equally impressive and there are techno treats and creature comforts galore to be explored. Features include dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, a flat-bottomed multi-function leather steering wheel, instrumentation with blue needles, a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen with sat nav, DAB radio with integrated voice control, an SD card reader and compatibility with all modern media devices.

And of course, there is distinctive R badging throughout the car too.

The Scirocco is a two-door, four seat coupe model and although there is space in the back for two adults, the leg room is a little limited. That said; up front there is bags of space to stretch out, sit back and lap up the thrills of the car.

And there are thrills galore. Powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 280PS, the Scirocco R boasts a 0-62mph sprint time of just 5.5 seconds and redlines at 155mph. But it’s the manner in which such impressive stats are achieved that cannot fail to impress.

The acceleration through the automatic gearbox is blisteringly quick and there is a constant supply of power on tap. The road-holding is flawless thanks to the car’s low centre of gravity and the steering is beautifully responsive – all factors that make sweeping country lanes with tight bends a perfect playground for the Scirocco.

In busy city centres it meanders effortlessly like a caged animal on the prowl awaiting its release onto the faster roads and when it is set free, the driving experience is certainly not for the faint-hearted.

But the Scirocco is not just about grunt and power – it has a certain refined manner and if driven with a gentle right boot, can deliver fuel economy of 35.8mpg on a combined run.

On the practical side, the Scirocco has a generously-sized boot that can accommodate 312 litres of luggage and this capacity can be increased to 1,006 litres with the 50:50 split-folding rear seats folded flat.

Elsewhere there are a number of handy storage compartments and drinks holders scattered throughout the cabin.

And when it comes to safety, VW has packed a comprehensive list of specifications into the car, including anti-lock brakes with hydraulic brake assist, electronic stabilisation programme, traction control, numerous airbags and plenty more besides.

The British public has a long-standing love affair with the Scirocco which enjoys its best European sales figures in the UK and the latest model is likely to keep that interest growing.

Priced at £33,105 the Scirocco R is a car that is proud to stand out in any crowded car park and delivers on the performance and handling front too.

Test Drive

Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSi 160bhp

I loved it the first time round and the reintroduction of the VW Scirocco has been welcomed as a breath of fresh air in a sometimes stale motoring industry.

It’s not that other manufacturers lack flair or design chic, it’s simply that the Scirocco always had a very unique and distinctive identity and it’s so nice to see a company move away from the stereotypical design spec.

This vehicle is guaranteed to turn heads and will almost certainly bring out a little of the green-eyed monster in onlookers. First introduced more than 30 years ago, it was ditched by VW back in the 90s, but now it’s back and back with a vengeance.

Boasting beautifully-crafted lines and the promise of an edge-of-the-seat ride, the Scirocco is winning fans in every quarter.

The 1.4-litre engine on my test model boasted blistering pace out of the blocks and the neat six-speed transmission delivered a smooth, efficient and responsive change through the gears.

All controls, dials and readouts are perfectly positioned for ease of use and passengers are treated to excellent comfort levels. There is even plenty of consideration given to taller back-seat occupants.

The cabin has a number of useful storage compartments and the boot area is generously sized too.

Throughout the vehicle, the spec level cannot fail but impress, and includes as standard, rain sensors, an automatic dimming rear view mirror, semi-automatic air conditioning with dust and pollen filter, a cooled and lockable glove box, electrically-heated wing mirrors and plenty more.

And as one would expect from VW, the Scirocco is kitted out with state-of-the-art safety features too, such as anti-lock brakes, hydraulic brake assist, numerous airbags and a great security package to keep away any uninvited attention.

The drive in and around town was great with excellent manoeuvrability, but for me, it’s out on the open road where the Scirocco bursts into life. The handling was superb round tight bends and the drive was genuinely mind-blowing.

If I had to find fault, then it would be the visibility through the rear windscreen which is virtually non-existent due to its narrow depth and the obstruction of two giant headrests on the back seat.

But that minor gripe aside, the Scirocco really is the comeback king and if I ever have one favour to ask of VW it would be … please don’t ditch this again.