The Volkswagen Scirocco, a Golf-based coupe, was reintroduced in 2008 and quickly became a popular choice among car enthusiasts. Even today, it continues to turn heads with its sleek design and impressive performance. Whether you’re in the market for a new car or considering a used buy, the Scirocco is definitely worth considering.
When it comes to pricing, the Scirocco offers great value for money. You can find early models from 2008 or 2009 for around £2000, and with a private plate, it can easily be mistaken for a newer model. In 2015, the Scirocco received a facelift with updated bumpers, headlights, and interior features. While these newer models do look sharper, any Scirocco from the Mk3 generation looks stylish and modern.
The Scirocco was initially offered with a range of engines, including a 1.4-litre petrol engine with 158bhp and a more powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine with 197bhp. The 2.0-litre diesel engines, with either 138bhp or 168bhp, were also popular choices among buyers. In fact, the Scirocco became known for its diesel engines and today, there are almost equal numbers of used diesel and petrol Sciroccos available.
If you’re looking for a high-performance option, the Scirocco R is the way to go. With a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 261bhp, it offers an exhilarating driving experience. The Scirocco R also features the XDS electronic differential from the Golf GTI to improve traction during fast cornering. These early Scirocco Rs still command high prices in the used car market.
Over the years, the Scirocco received several updates, including smarter dials and steering wheels from the Golf Mk6, a touchscreen sat-nav, and increased power for the R model. There are also various trims available, with GT and R-Line being the most popular choices. The Black Editions, introduced in 2015, offer a more stylish and aggressive look with darkened lights, black detailing, and black alloys.
When buying a used Scirocco, it’s important to be aware of common problems. For the 1.4 petrol engines, check for misfires caused by faulty coil packs. On the 2.0-litre petrol engines, make sure the timing chain runs quietly as tensioners can wear out. The R model has a timing belt that should be changed every five years. Regular oil changes are essential for all turbocharged engines, and if the turbo feels laggy, it could be due to a split dump valve diaphragm. The diesel engines are generally reliable.
In terms of the gearbox, some manual cars may have problems selecting second gear or strange noises from the clutch. Early DSG automatic gearboxes had a poor reputation but have improved since 2012. Regular maintenance, including filter and fluid changes, is necessary.
When inspecting the steering and suspension, check for leaks in the dampers and ensure that the Dynamic Chassis Control functions properly in all three modes. Look for uneven tire wear and kerb damage on the low-profile tires. The steering can be noisy, so test it by turning it lock to lock.
In terms of brakes, there are no major issues to be concerned about. However, it’s important to check the disc and pad wear and ensure that timely fluid changes have been performed.
When examining the body of the car, don’t worry about small impressions at either end of the sills as they are meant for the jack. Check for poor rearward visibility, which can lead to parking accidents, and inspect the rear corners for any damage. Make sure the windows drop as you open the doors. Older models may have misted lights, torn window rubbers, or rusty tailgate struts.
Overall, the Volkswagen Scirocco is a fantastic choice for those looking for a stylish and sporty coupe. With its range of engines and trims, there’s a Scirocco to suit every taste. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect any used model for common issues before making a purchase.