What is it?
Essentially the new Scirocco is a rebodied Golf with less space costing more money. That's completely ignoring the desirability of the new coupé shape though, as the new Scirocco will sell on its looks alone, even if the distinctive style divides opinion.
You may remember the original Scirocco, which was a runaway success. VW doesn't expect the new car to sell quite so well given that the car market is now saturated with all kinds of 'niche' products vying for customers' hard-earned cash. However, VW likes to think that the Scirocco will kick start the compact coupé market back into life.
Being Golf-based, there should be a wide range of engines to choose from, though the very first cars to arrive in the UK will all be powered by the Golf GTI's 2.0-litre turbocharged unit, putting out 197bhp. Next year further options will be added to the range, including a 158bhp version of the 1.4-litre TSI engine. Unsurprisingly, VW will also offer diesel models, with the new common rail 2.0-litre TDI unit becoming available in 138- and 168bhp forms. All cars for the foreseeable future will be front-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual standard across the range. Buyers can also opt for a DSG 'box, with six or seven gears depending on the engine.
Is it any good?
Most definitely, but that's no surprise given how impressive the Golf GTI still is, despite being on sale for several years. Utilising the same mechanicals, the Scirocco feels like a proper sporting car and it's undeniably tauter than the Golf. Underlining the Scirocco's intent is the fitment of Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), which allows the driver to select from two modes either side of 'normal', one labelled Comfort, the other Sport.
DCC controls not only the dampers, but the level of steering assistance too. Surprisingly, even in Comfort mode, the Scirocco is noticeably stiffer than most of the Golf range, and the difference between the three modes is not as large as we'd have liked. Certainly on the larger alloys, the Comfort mode could do with being even softer, while Sport mode should go a little further, perhaps even loosening the iron fist grip of the traction control a tad.
The 2.0-litre car certainly needs its traction control, as there is ample torque from low revs to spin the front wheels. The 1.4-litre TSI model doesn't have the same problem, though it doesn't feel significantly slower either. Admittedly, flat out, the 2.0-litre car is noticeably quicker, but buyers of the entry-level model won't feel short changed.
Many buyers will be swayed toward the Scirocco for its looks, and the sense of style continues inside. It's not a radical interior, but there are plenty of neat touches, including a nice mesh material even on the basic models. The seats are lovely sports items too, though naturally the rear isn't as accommodating as a Golf's. Although four adults can fit in, the rear passengers will feel a little claustrophobic thanks to the shallow rear window and sloping side glass. Choosing the brown leather alleviates this impression somewhat and really makes the car feel quite special.
Should I call the bank manager?
You should probably get a call in pretty sharpish, as we expect VW will be inundated with enquiries. The order book is already open and the first buyers will receive their cars in time for the number plate change in September. Unfortunately, the range will be limited to the high-spec Scirocco GT fitted with the 2.0-litre TSI engine until next year, which will sell for £20,940 in manual format, with the DSG option £1,330 more. VW expects to sell 3,350 before the end of 2008.
Summary
There is a surprising lack of compact four-seat coupés on the market right now, so the Scirocco will be compared to cars as different in character from the Mazda RX-8 to the Vauxhall Astra VXR. The distinctive design and high quality will no doubt net plenty of buyers and owners of the Golf GTI may well be tempted to trade up too. The Scirocco is likely to be a success.
Re: 186 mph in Limehouse link !!! (Mikeman) Re: Suzuki Alto - Styling! (gary a)
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