Volkswagen Scirocco review (2008-2018)

There's a bit of a mismatch between the catwalk-ready looks of the Scirocco's exterior and the fairly ordinary cabin.

There's nothing wrong with the Volkswagen Scirocco's dash or the standard of finish, it's just a bit bland and predictable.  

Being a coupé, you expect some compromise in space and practicality compared with a normal hatchback.

Well, you won't notice much of a trade-off if you're travelling in the front of the car, with plenty of head and legroom and lots of adjustment to the driving position.

The thick pillars and small window at the rear mean the view behind the car is compromised, though. 

You do lose out a bit in the back, where there are two seats rather than a bench for three. There's enough legroom for adults.

The sloping roofline means your head will rub on the ceiling if you're tall.  

Tech and features

Any post-facelift Scirocco will have a digital radio, Bluetooth, and a touchscreen infotainment system. GT, R-Line, and R models all have sat nav as well. 

Whichever spec you choose, the Scirocco comes with a six-disc changer – handy if you haven't yet ditched CDs completely.

Fortunately, there are connectors so you can also play music from your smartphone. 

Engines and power

The Scirocco's character changes depending on the engine under the bonnet.

The 1.4-litre petrol is tame, and suits buyers who value low running costs over vivid acceleration.

The diesels are quicker, and the ones to choose if you cover a lot of miles – they make stylish and comfortable motorway cars. 

Pick one of the more powerful petrol model and things warm up nicely, especially if you go for the sizzling-hot Scirocco R.

Handling and ride comfort

It corners with poise and precision, and balances this with comfort around town and on the motorway. 

It's great fun but still easy to live with. 

Boot space

Choose a Scirocco over a Golf and you do lose some boot space.

There's also a big lip to load items over, which can put a strain on your back if you are lifting something heavy.  

For a coupé, though, the Scirocco makes a reasonably practical car, and you can fold the rear seats if you need more room for bags. 

Storage solutions

There's plenty of storage space in the cabin for various odds and ends, and cupholders between the front seats. 

If you want a coupé but really need a roomy hatchback, you may find the Scirocco a little short on space.

On the other hand, for a slinky-looking coupé the Scirocco is a practical choice. 

Fuel economy

Just as the Scirocco is a very different car to drive depending on the engine you choose, so running costs vary a lot from model to model. 

The sensible buys for high-mileage drivers are the diesels. The less powerful of the two diesels can go 67.3 miles on a gallon, according to the official figures.

That's probably a bit optimistic but take it easy and you should see close to 50mpg. 

As a rule, the least powerful petrol model will also be cheap to run.

Officially 52.3mpg should be possible. Reckon on closer to 45 miles from each gallon of unleaded. 

Go to the opposite end of the performance spectrum, and the R has an official combined figure of 35.3mpg for the manual, or 35.8mpg for the DSG auto.