Still want that Focus RS? Well, erm, yes probably. Nonetheless, the Scirocco R looks like a very sweet thing indeed, and it's finally official and coming to a showroom near you just in time for Christmas.

And you'd better be very good if you want Santa to bring you one, because it will be in high demand. The Focus RS comparison is a slightly unfair one really - this probably encroaches more into Audi TT territory than the bonkers Blue Oval hatch - though it looks like the Scirocco will offer similarly sharp handling dynamics and cost about the same, at around £25k.

VW claims it's the most driver-focussed R model yet, and has fitted it with a 2.0-litre turbo engine producing 261bhp and 258lb.ft of torque - good for a 0-62mph sprint of 6.5 seconds (or 6.4 with DSG). Slightly curious, however, is VW's decision to use a tweaked version of the MkV Golf GTI's engine to power the R, rather than the newer 2.0-litre TSI unit found in other Sciroccos and the Mk VI GTI. It's heavily revised, however, with uprated pistons and con-rods, and an entirely new alloy head. And there's a bigger intercooler.

The Scirocco R is still front-wheel drive, although Volkswagen has endowed it with the same 'XDS' trick electronic differential found on the new GTI, a brake-based system that detects which wheels are losing traction and adjusts accordingly. The standard brakes are augmented for better stopping power too, and Active Chassis Control (ACC) is standard, allowing drivers to select between Comfort and Sport modes by altering the suspension, steering and throttle response.

And then, of course, there's the visual makeover, which to our eyes is as tasteful as it is brutal, inside and out. There's a new set of 18-inch wheels (though 19s are available), a deep chin spoiler and new rear valance incorporating twin pipes at either side. The rubbing strips down the flanks are gone too; the mirrors are gloss black; the rear lights are smoked; and a new grille featuring R badging completes the look.

In the cabin there's yet more gloss black where there once was silver, and the obligatory flat-bottomed steering wheel makes a welcome appearance. The instrument needles glow blue, and it gets dual-zone climate control as standard and a touch screen stereo. Frankly, we can't wait to get behind the wheel.

Mark Nichol - 20 May 2009