9 February 2011
Built on the new Golf VI platform with sports coupe styled bodywork, the Scirocco takes its name from a warm Mediterranean breeze originating over the Sahara Desert.
It's a name which goes back to 1974 when Volkswagen offered the original Mk 1 Golf based Scirocco.
This is a market sector that Volkswagen has been absent from since production of the stylish Corrado ceased in the mid-'90s.
Two Scirocco models are offered, a 1.4 litre twincharger and a 2.0 litre turbo.
The 1.4 litre twincharger version, utilises both a supercharger and a turbocharger to produce 118kW at 5800rpm and 240Nm of torque at a wide range of 1500 to 4500rpm. The latest generation seven speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) is coupled with this engine and fuel is consumed at just 6.4L/100km with CO2 emissions of only 148g/km.
Using the current Golf GTI running gear, the other model on offer is the TSI 2.0 litre turbo version producing 147kW at 5100rpm and 280Nm of torque at 1700 to 5000rpm. This version is mated to a six speed DSG 'box due to torque limitations for the seven speed unit. Fuel consumption is quoted at 7.6L/100km, with CO2 emissions of 179g/km.
The open road speed limit is reached from standstill in 7.1 seconds for the 147kW 2.0 litre turbo, and 8 seconds flat for the 118kW twincharged 1.4 litre Scirocco.
Using technology which many believe will eventually render traditional automatic transmissions redundant, the DSG is an automated manual transmission utilising a dual clutch arrangement. While one gear is in use, the next one is always engaged and at the ready, allowing fast, seamless gear shifts with uninterrupted power delivery.
DSG transmissions shift like an automatic, but offer a more engaging driving experience.
If you feel the need, manual shifting is available via steering wheel mounted shift paddles.
A traditional automatic transmission uses a fluid drive torque convertor coupling the engine to the transmission, which results in some drive slippage.
A DSG gearbox is coupled to the engine via a clutch plate offering a direct drive with no slippage. This makes for a more engaging driving experience and improves fuel efficiency.
Strictly a four seater, the four full size sport seats are supportive and comfortable, and space is impressive for a compact coupe.
In-car entertainment includes a MDI (Media Device Interface) with auxiliary input for connectivity with devices such as MP3, iPOD and other storage devices. A 6 disc CD player, SD card slot, and WAV file compatibility are all provided for, operated via an intuitive large touch screen and delivered through an 8 speaker quality sound system.
Safety equipment is in keeping with the modern expectation of no less than a 5 star crash test rating. The Scirocco comes fully equipped with a compliment of 6 airbags; driver and front passenger, front side and curtain airbags for all 4 occupants, further supported by active front head restraints, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), ABS braking and Brake Assist. ISOFIX child seat mountings are provided in the rear.
Not only is the Scirocco an interesting and innovative technical package, it is one of the prettiest and most stylish vehicles any amount of money can buy.
And Volkswagen says that this is the essence of the Scirocco: the successful marriage of top technology and low running costs, dynamic performance and high comfort, a surprisingly spacious interior and an uncompromising sporty design.
A brief drive confirms that the Scirocco is an excellent driver's car with great handling, brisk performance and superior build quality. A longer drive firmly hammers the point home.
Pricing is $49,990 for the 118kW and $55,990 for the 147kW version