Volkswagen Scirocco 2.0TSi

Introduction

During the past two decades Volkswagen epitomized the concept of incremental innovation in terms of vehicle design, practicality and performance. This concept is most apparent with their recent introduction of the Golf 6 GTi. As Fifth Gear explains, the new GTi has 10 more horsepower, is 10% faster, 10% more fuel efficient and produce 10% less carbon emissions. All of this not only adds to an already exceptional car, but also makes the Golf 6 GTi a well respected successor to the Golf 5.

So, what were the Germans trying to prove when they introduced the new Scirocco?

Just look at the Facts:
The Scirocco is 3% more expensive, 5% less powerful and about 15% less practical than it’s big brother rival. Then again, comparing the Scirocco to a GTi, would be like comparing a pair of designer fashion boots to a pair of advanced running shoes. Not only does the Scirocco challenge Volkswagen’s method of incremental innovation, but completely ignores it in exchange for radical invention.

Welcome to the World of the Scirocco.

Review

The Scirocco treads on new territory in terms of design, emotion and image. Combining the luxury of a Gran Tourer, the practicality of a hatchback mixed with the sportiness and sex appeal of a sports coupe. In my opinion, the Scirocco is the new definition of a People’s Car, leaving even its Italian and French rivals at a loss for words.

Step inside the new Scirocco and you will find the overall interior design is understated and minimalist in true Volkswagen style. The only differentiating factors between the Golf 6 and the Scirocco’s interior are the sports seats, some chrome inserts and triangular door handles adding to the sportiness of the Scirocco.

In performance terms the Scirocco 2.0 TSi is on par, if not ahead of its rivals. The 2 litre Turbocharged powerplant develops 147 kW between 5100 and 6000rpm and produces 280Nm of torque between 1700 and 5000rpm. These figures translate to a 0 – 100km/h sprint time of just 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 235km/h.

The 2.0 TSi rides on sexy 18 inch “Interlagos” alloy wheels, connected to a sporty suspension setup complimented by an optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system that allows the driver to switch between a Comfort and Sport driving mode. Show the Scirocco some high speed corners and the turn-in is firm with no evidence of excessive body roll. It is by no means as sharp as nor as poised as the GTi, but the sports suspension setup inspires sporty driving and quick direction changes without upsetting the balance of the Scirocco.

The Scirocco is equipped with a comprehensive list of active safety equipment. The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Brake Assist system, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) ensures that almost any critical driving situation can be dealt with effectively. If not, passive safety equipment includes the obvious Seatbelt Pre-tensioners, 6 airbags and the not so obvious 5-star EURO-NCAP crash test rating.

Conclusion

All of the above facts and figures support the practical explanation that the Scirocco is a competent 3 door sports car, but the Scirocco is about more than that. It is one of those rare examples of a car that you buy with your heart. It’s a purchase decision that relies on emotion and an experience that feeds the soul, not the mind. What’s more is that it doesn’t have any practical drawbacks either. It’s a car made for people by a brand that is inspired by people. It’s a Volkswagen.