All-New Volkswagen Scirocco – Agile, efficient and striking

In 1974, precisely 40 years ago, the first generation VW Scirocco made its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show. The coupe has since enriched the lives of all those motorists who love dynamic performance in an agile, confidently stylish, and affordable sports car. Once again at the recent Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen presented the latest generation of the icon which has sold more than one million units. The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco has been developed further both technically and visually.

 

All-New Volkswagen Scirocco

Looks

The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco also appears to be more clearly contoured and wider, due to the bumper surfaces painted in body colour as opposed to being kept black. The narrow "blades" and a black, open-topped frame in the bumper form a striking contrast for light paint. The large cooling air inlet in the lower area of the front section and the upper air inlet are kept black. Together with the XL1 and the Beetle, the all-new Scirocco is also the only Volkswagen where the VW logo is on the bonnet. The front headlights now feature a narrow, convex LED contour underneath the xenon bulbs which looks like an eyelid and functions as daytime running lights. 

 

Distinct coupe profile

The indicators are placed separately in the outer regions of the bumper, with fog lights as well as the daytime running lights in the standard version. The lights are visually separated by the "blades.” Together with the body-coloured trim for the lower cooling air inlet, the result accentuates the width of the car. The new design also makes the Scirocco appear to sit even lower on the road. The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco further reinforces this effect using completely newly designed LED rear lights and also a new boot lid. 

 

Based on the Golf

The trapezoidal contoured rear lights towards the centre of the coupe, with their C-shaped light contour, now extend further into the boot lid. The boot lib also features a horizontal light-refracting edge underneath the window. A new black diffuser matches this powerful and precise design, making the bumper appear to sit lower and the car as a whole flatter in its proportions. The rear VW badge swings upwards when pressure is placed on the central axis in order to serve as a handle for opening the boot lid. The number plate lighting also uses LED technology as standard.

Power

The performance range of the four TSI (turbo direct fuel injection engines) extends between 92 kW / 123 hp to 132 kW / 177 hp. The two VW Scirocco TDIs now achieve 110 kW / 147 hp and 135 kW / 181 hp. Both engines are extremely economical with 4.1 l/100 km (110 kW) or 4.3 l/100 km (135 kW). The reduction in fuel consumption for both TDIs, compared to the predecessor's less powerful engines, is 0.8 litres / 100 km. All power units are paired with a six speed manual or DSG gear box. 

 

Standard reverse camera

Cabin

The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco has also been developed further in several areas inside. Thus, the optimised instrument panel trim on the passenger side which visually streamlines the dashboard with a striking horizontal edge is eye-catching. The air nozzle panels and the central panel around the navigation system with an aluminium-look are now flush-mounted in the instrument panel and thus accentuate the high-end quality of the interior. Like models such as the Golf GTI, the Scirocco is now also equipped with a new tubular-look instrument cluster; the instruments features new graphics and are smartly framed with an aluminium-look. The steering wheel design was also derived from the all-new Volkswagen Golf GTI. Additionally, the three auxiliary instruments integrated above the centre console are included as a standard. Enhancing the cabin's spacious and airy feel is the option of a panoramic sunroof. This electrically powered and transparent roof extends from the A to the B pillars and can tilt open up at the press of a button. A sunshade is also fitted to reduce glare.

 

Sporty looking seats

Seats  

Four sculpted sports seats offer comfort and support for all four passengers, while non-detachable headrests ensure safety at all time for rear seat occupants. A generous amount of interior space is also afforded by these seats. The rear seats can also be split (50:50) and folded to increase cargo space when necessary. A maximum 755 litres is available in the Scirocco. For added convenience, the front seats offer rear passengers easy entry and exit to the back seats. When unlatched, they not only tip but also slide forward to maximise entry room. However, when they are put back, they automatically return to their previously set positions, meaning driver and passenger do not have to readjust their seats. Naturally the two front seats are adjustable for height and reach, as is the steering wheel, while a 12-way electrically adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support is offered as an option with leather upholstery. 

 

Cockpit

Optional extras

The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco is still equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, Hill Hold, electric windows and sport seats. There is now a storage compartment close to the handbrake lever which can be closed using a sliding blind. A 300 watt premium entertainment system from Danish hi-fi specialist Dynaudio provides exceptional sound quality especially compared with other systems in the Scirocco's. The eight-channel system delivers up to a true 300 watts RMS without generating unwanted vibrations in the car’s structure.

 

Less practical than the Golf

Verdict

The all-new Volkswagen Scirocco offers sport styling in a small and striking package. The latest tweaks have made this two door ‘coupe’ hatchback a must have car. However, there is no denying the fact that the Volkswagen Scirocco is basically a Golf with a striking body. The hatchback might have great looks but sacrifices the practicality visible on its larger sibling.