What's the news?

Volkswagen will use next month's Geneva Motor Show to launch its facelifted Scirocco and Scirocco R models - 40 years exactly since the original debuted. Building on the success of the current car - which has found over a million homes - the new Scirocco ups the game in terms of technology and equipment levels offered, plus the engine range is updated.

Exterior

It's fair say the Scirocco's styling has been revised rather than reinvented. The design of the front bumper mimics that seen on the latest Golf GTI and GTD models with four horizontal aerodynamic blades incorporating the fog lights and indicators. These are pushed right to the extremities of the bumper by a large air intake.

Bi-Xenon headlights are now standard and are complemented by narrow curved LED daytime running lights. Like the Beetle and futuristic XL1 models, the Scirocco also wears its VW badge on the bonnet rather than centred on the grille. At the rear, new light clusters are the most noticeable change and feature a new C-shaped design. A black rear diffuser along with dual exhaust tips are new, while the more powerful Scirocco R model will feature a unique rear bumper and exhaust outlets at either side.

Interior

Inside, the new layout features three auxiliary instrument dials mounted above the centre console, which, are a nostalgic nod to the original Scirocco. The main instruments adopt the tubular-look in keeping with Volkswagen's latest design language. Air vents now feature an aluminium finish while also being mounted flush with the instrument panels. A flat-bottomed leather steering wheel along with new sports seats enhance the performance feel.

In the case of the Scirocco R, the interior is adorned with the "R" logo on the seats, which also feature contrasting 'crystal grey' stitching. A black roof lining and 'Carbon Race' inserts serve to remind the occupants that this version is a little more special.

Mechanicals

The range of engines offered is similar to that seen across the Volkswagen range with a 125hp 1.4 TSI petrol unit serving as the entry point, emitting 125g/km of CO₂. The 150hp 2.0-litre TDI engine is offered for the first time in the Scirocco, returning an astounding 68.9mpg on the combined cycle. Like the Golf GTD, Volkswagen will also offer a more powerful 184hp diesel engine. For those wanting to get the most performance there's the 280hp 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, while Volkswagen will also offer a choice of manual or DSG automatic gearboxes.

Anything else?

Volkswagen expects the new Scirocco models, including the Scirocco R, to go on sale before the summer and although prices have yet to be confirmed, a significant price jump is not expected.

Dave Humphreys - 16 Feb 2014