Golf GTI
and various other MQB offspring dominating the review headlines recently, it's time for the VW Scirocco to grab some limelight again. With the old platform.
What, you haven't spotted the new lights?
Yes, this car is a revised version of the Scirocco that's been on sale
since 2008
rather than something all new based on the Modularer Querbaukasten. Whether that will disadvantage the new 'roc or not will become evident next week when we drive it, but it has a very high dynamic standard to match set by the latest fast Golfs, Leons and Octavias.
So what is new with the Scirocco? It's the familiar new (LED) lights and bumpers job, with the R seen here getting its own bespoke items and chrome mirrors. The interior has been updated with new dials and centre console (without pics as yet). Trim levels continue as just 'Scirocco', GT, R-Line and R.
The range-topping R impressed PH back in 2009 ('the Scirocco's dynamic performance borders on the superb' said Riggers) and it continues much the same bar a 15hp boost to 280hp. Will that be enough to keep it competitive? Elsewhere a 2.0-litre 180hp engine replaces the 1.4-litre 160hp model and the 220hp EA888 engine from the GTI sits where the old 210hp 2.0-litre turbo was. More power and 19 per cent better efficiency says VW. There are a pair of 2.0-litre diesels as well, rated at 150 and 184hp.
The revised Scirocco goes on sale today with prices starting at £20,455 for the 125hp 1.4 manual. Customers will receive their cars in October. The 2.0-litre TSI costs from £25,845 in manual GT spec. The R is £32,295 with DSG a £1,500 option. Will that be made to look expensive with the Golf R at £30K? The earliest 'old' Scirocco Rs start below £20K now for those tempted. And it still looks rather fetching in green.