The new model made its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, 40 years after the original. The new version features a revised design with new headlights and tail lights, as well as revised bumper styling with aerodynamic “blades” similar to the latest-generation Golf GTI, with integrated indicator lights, daytime running lights and fog lights. 

There’s also new headlights, optional bi-xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light, LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights as standard. At the back there’s also a reshaped bumper whilst, as on the Golf, the VW logo badge is now used to open the boot.

Meanwhile the range-topping Scirocco R is marked off with bespoke bumpers and 19-inch alloy wheels. 

Inside, the dashboard has been updated, with new-look dials and an auxiliary instrument cluster above the centre console, consisting of chronometer, charge pressure and oil temperature gauges in tribute to the 1974 model. There are also sport seats and a leather sport steering wheel (adapted from the Golf GTI) as standard, and new materials, leather configurations and colour.

The engine line-up brings six new turbocharged direct-injection petrol and diesel engines. All of them meet EU6 emissions standards and all models bar the R now feature BlueMotion Technology modifications, meaning they come as standard with Stop/Start and also brake energy recuperation systems.

All engines are now more powerful (up to 20PS) and more economical (up to 19%).

The petrol range consists of a 1.4-litre TSI with 125PS (was 122), and a new 2.0-litre 180PS unit, which replaces the previous 1.4-litre 160PS unit. Despite an increase in capacity and power, it is more economical than the unit it replaces. The previous 2.0-litre TSI 210PS has been replaced with a 220PS unit that is also 19% more fuel-efficient. The new Scirocco R uses a 2.0-litre unit producing 280PS: 15PS more than before.

The two diesel engines are both 2.0-litre units, with either 150PS or 184PS.

All models in the range except the R now feature BlueMotion Technology modifications, meaning they come as standard with Stop/Start and also brake energy recuperation systems.

The 125PS 1.4 TSI is the most economical petrol version with average fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 125g/km while, with 4.2l/100km, the 150PS Scirocco 2.0 TDI is the most economical diesel variant and offers CO2 emissions of 119-109g/km.

The latest Scirocco is being produced at VW’s Portuguese plant near Lisbon and will be launched from the middle of August – with all six engine variants – initially in Europe; advance sales have already started in some countries such as Germany. Further high-volume markets such as China, Turkey, Australia, Russia and South Korea will follow soon afterwards.