The Volkswagen Scirocco R made its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in September 2009, so it’s been a long-time coming for local performance car enthusiasts, but finally VW’s range-topping coupe has swooped in. Since we first tested the Scirocco back in 2009, we’ve always looked forward to the day that a more powerful and aggressive rendition would be available. Last week our ed. headed off to the hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal for a taste of the sizzling new Scirocco R.

Like me, when it comes to performance cars, I know you want to hear the facts and figures first. So, at the heart of the Scirocco R is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder EA113 engine (as opposed to the EA888 fitted to the conventional Scirocco) in heavily revised form. The engine block has been reinforced with an entirely new alloy head, uprated pistons, conrods and high pressure injectors. An uprated turbocharger, generating 1.2 bar of boost, is joined by a new intercooler to cope with the extra heat generated. The result is 188 kW and 350 N.m of torque, which incidentally, is down on power by some 11 kW compared to the European spec Scirocco R. Volkswagen South Africa say this has been done due to the warmer climate, a policy that Audi shares with its S3.

The latest R is available with either a 6-speed manual or DSG gearbox, directing drive to the front wheels via an XDS-equipped electronically controlled differential. The Scirocco R is capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds (DSG 5.8 seconds) before reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h. When you’re not using all the power, Volkswagen claim the turbocharged 2.0-litre will return fuel economy of 8.0 L/100km (DSG transmission) and corresponding CO2 emissions of 187 g/km. A set of uprated brake discs, measuring 345 mm in diameter (310 mm at the rear), and new callipers finished in gloss black are fitted, along with specially tuned, pneumatically controlled, damper units. Finally, an all-new exhaust system exits via tailpipes set on either side of the rear bumper.

All this performance has been packaged in traditional VW fashion, that being a bold, but but not overly extrovert, styling kit. The front and rear bumpers are unique to the Scirocco R and have been designed by Volkswagen R GmbH, the manufacturer’s relatively new, specialist tuning division. The nose is dominated by a trio of deep front airdams set into the front bumper joined by a set of LED daytime running lights. The grille section, finished in gloss black, features a discreet ‘R’ badge and sits in between a set of standard Bi-Xenon headlight units. Further back a set of subtle sill extensions replace the rubbing strip fitted to the conventional Scirocco. At the rear, a new bumper featuring a diffuser is framed by the new chrome-tipped exhausts. A set of smoked rear light lenses sit below a larger rear wing to lend the Scirocco R greater presence. The gloss black look featured on the front grille extends to the wing mirrors and the rear diffuser, all of which remain black regardless of the body colour of the vehicle. Unique to the new R models are a set of 19-inch five-spoke ‘Talladega’ wheels, wrapped in 235/35 profile rubber.

Inside the range-topping Scirocco model you’ll find sculpted sports leather seats that offer great support, a new set of dials featuring electric blue needles – similar to those of the new Golf R – together with a flat-bottomed steering wheel that has gloss black inserts surrounding the multi-function controls. Interior highlights include more gloss black inserts around the airvents and contrast against aluminium trim that includes a set of ‘R’ kick plates found in the door frame. The R is well equipped as standard, with features such as dual-zone climate and rear park-distance control, as well as offering enough space for two rear passengers, together with 312-litres of boot space.

Lower and wider than its Golf counterpart, the Scirocco R has a McPherson strut type front suspension, while a multi-link suspension system does the work out back. The tuning of the springs, dampers and anti-roll bars has been modified to suit the lower ride height (103 mm) and the weight distribution of the Scirocco R. The launch cars were all fitted with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), which allows the level of suspension damping to be set between comfort, normal or sport modes, as well as adjusting the electro-mechanical power steering and accelerator response to suit.

Being a front-wheel drive car, the Scirocco R is fitted as standard with XDS, an electronic cross-axle traction control system for improved traction and handling. The XDS system is employed when driving quickly through a bend where sensors provide information on lateral G forces, while ABS sensors monitor levels of friction. Using this information a control unit can predict when an inside wheel is about to lift and apply a braking force automatically to increase traction on the opposite front wheel. XDS brakes the inner wheel before it loses traction rather than afterwards. The result is smoother, more sure-footed and safer progress with better traction through fast corners when on the limit of adhesion. While not entirely seemless, the system does work well, especially in wet conditions when you have plenty of power available beneath your right-foot.

On the road, the front-wheel drive Scirocco R feels lively, offers crisp turn-in and the low centre of gravity contributes to swift changes of direction. The slightly wider track over that of the Golf, allows the Scirocco to carry more corner speed mid-turn and, with 102 kg less weight to cart around, the Scirocco feels noticeably lighter on its feet. Acceleration from a standing start is brisk, but once on the move, the R’s spread of peak torque between 2 500 and 3 500 r/min gives it rapid in-gear acceleration. The DSG-equipped model offers precision gear changes and paddle shifters behind the steering wheel keep you involved. The six-speed manual transmission is easy to work with, by virtue of a linear clutch action and shortish throws between the gears. The pedals are well positioned and first impressions suggest the manual gearbox would offer more fun and still be easy to live with in traffic.

Priced from R403 355, the high-powered Scirocco offers a stylish and involving alternative to the more grown up Golf R.

Prices include a 5-year/90 000km service plan, 3-year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty.

Following earlier reports, Volkswagen has officially announced the formation of its specialty Volkswagen R GmbH tuning division, which will be dedicated to producing sporty exclusive models from the VW stable.

Its vehicle portfolio already includes the two new top models, the Scirocco R and the Golf R, as well as the dynamic R Line design packages and luxurious Volkswagen Exclusive items.

The responsibility of development, implementation and sales of these unique models will now fall solely on Volkswagen R GmbH. “Our vehicles contribute to the emotionalisation and growth of Volkswagen brand,” explained Ulrich Riestenpatt-Richter, General Manager of Volkswagen R GmbH.

Volkswagen states that this move responds to the increased global demand for individualised vehicles with contemporary sportiness and exclusivity. The Volkswagen R GmbH employs a staff of more than 350 at its headquarters in Warmenau near Wolfsburg, Germany.

Adapted from CarAdvice

For the second time in 2009, Volkswagen is offering a free downloadable game, starring one of its cars, to iPhone and iPod Touch users. Available from the Apple App store, the new game is called “Scirocco R 24 hour Challenge” and users get to pilot a Scirocco R through a system of bends that are not dissimilar to the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife.

Car guidance can be done either through the touch screen or by the tilt sensor. The latter is extremely cool because it lets players gesture as if they are really in the driving seat. Multi-player mode is also available through the Bluetooth connection so friends and friends of friends can race against each other.

Players can also customise their cars and enjoy the genuine engine sound of the Scirocco R. The digital racer takes after the real thing, with pieces like the large air inlets in the front bumper and the chrome tailpipes appearing on screen.

As one of the most powerful road-going VW’s ever built, the 195kW real-life Scirocco R will run from 0 – 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and has a electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

Adapted from WorldCarFans

Say hello to the VW Scirocco R, which has just been unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. If you thought that the standard Scirocco was just a bit soft, this is the Volkswagen Scirocco for you.

Unlike previous VW R models, the Scirocco is two- not four-wheel drive. It has four, not six cylinders but fear not, there’s plenty to rejoice about. The looks, for example.

The Scirocco is already pretty aggressive but the R’s gaping front intakes – incorporating LED daytime running lights – lowered ride height, new 18-inch rims (19’s are optional) gloss black rear diffuser, twin exhaust pipes and tinted rear lights certainly add a bit of muscle.

Then there’s the performance. The 2,0-litre turbocharged engine has been uprated to 195 kW – up from the 147 kW of the standard 2,0-litre TSI. This means it now sprints from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds (6.4 seconds with the DSG gearbox) and its top speed has been electronically limited to 250 km/h.

We already knew the standard chassis could handle more power but just to make sure, VW has lowered and stiffened the suspension, added an ‘XDS’ electronic limited slip differential – to help get all the power onto the road – and a set of huge 345 mm brakes to slow it all down again.

The only problem is that it’s going to cost around GBP26 000 when sales start in September and that’s more expensive than the outstandingly vicious Focus RS.

Adapted from Sky

We’ve been waiting patiently since we reported on rumours of a Golf R20T or Golf GTI-R version of the latest Volkswagen Golf.  The wait is over, for the moment at least, as the new R20T has been captured testing on German roads. Although camouflaged at the front and from behind, and wearing a set of standard GTI alloys, one can see that the front fog lights have been done away with, and centred twin-exhausts have been added at the rear, to continue the Golf 5 R32 genes.

No further news on the technical enhancements for the new car, but it is likely that the Golf R20T will share the195 kW 2,0-litre turbo motor found in the Scirocco R20T. Alternatively a milder 188 kW version of the motor, as doing service in the current Audi S3, could be used so as not to step on the Scirocco R’s toes. Either way, the new Golf R20T is a hot-hatch to keep an eye on – we could see a launch at the up coming Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Images courtesy of Autopista.es

If special is how you like to feel, then a bright red Scirocco should be on your shopping list. Passers-by will stare, motorists will perform harrowing stunts to take a closer look, the usually quick-witted robot retailers will be lost for words and school kids will want your autograph – such is the visual impact of this lady in red.

Exterior
The new Scirocco is a beautiful car, as it should be when you consider it is the first car in the Volkswagen stable to sport the new face of the brand. Take a cruise along your nearest stretch of national road and you’ll soon discover the impression it leaves on other motorists as they move out of the way to let you past. As you sprint by they may notice the rising window line, 18-inch ‘Interlagos’  wheels with their 235/40 rubber and 1,8 meter long roof line that give the Scirocco its sporty profile. The last view they’ll have is of the narrow roof contrasting against the wide body, muscular haunches accentuated by the lines of tail-lights and the chunky rear bumper housing the twin-tailpipes. Once you slow down to look for a park in front of a trendy cafe however, there is a price to pay for the unique styling. With the large C-pillars, narrow rearview mirror and prominent headrests built-in to the rear seats, you’ll need to be alert when parallel parking to avoid the wrong kind of attention.

Interior
The Scirocco has been most criticised for borrowing the dashboard straight from its Eos stablemate and after having created such a beautifully sculpted exterior, it’s surprising to step inside to find a rather starke and undramatic interior. Apart from the sporty seats, high window line and muscular haunches, reflected in each side mirror, it doesn’t feel as special as you would expect, although interior quality is typically excellent.

The leather seats with white stitching and heavy side bolsters add a sporty intent to an otherwise bland interior. They hug the body well, providing good lateral support and feature electronically adjustable lumbar support as standard. Rear passengers may be surprised by the amount of leg and headroom available, as well as the contoured bucket seats to keep them in place around corners. Cruise control, heated seats, tinted side and rear windows are standard on the Scirocco. One omission from the cabin was that of a multi-function steering wheel, which left us feeling a bit ‘cheated’ in a car priced north of the R300k mark. Our test car was fitted with VW’s DynAudio ‘RCD-510′ 6-disc front loading CD-changer and MP3 compatible radio, featuring a 300W 8-channel amplifier. What this mouthful translates to, is music to your ears. Plug-in your iPod via the auxillary connector in the centre armrest and whether listening to Frank Sinatra or Kings Of Leon, you’ll be rewarded with crystal clear notes and deep, well-rounded bass. Should the music transport you to another dimension, well let’s just say that passengers are well taken care of with 6 air bags and the obligatory electronic nannies such as ESP with ABS, Brake Assist and Anti-Spin Regulator (ASR).

The Drive
The sceptics may say that the new Scirooco is nothing more than a restyled 2-door Golf GTI – a GTI in wolf’s clothing. Yes and no, because although the Scirocco shares the Golf’s PQ35 platform, VW have done enough tweaking to give it an edge. For starters, the Scirocco weighs 65 kg less than Mk5 GTI and 75 kg less than the new one. It’s 100 millimeters (mm) shorter, 35 mm wider at the front, 59 mm at the rear and rides on wider 18-inch rubber. VW has even gone as far as using aluminium steering knuckles in the rear suspension to save weight and make way for the wider tyres. What these figures translate to is a lower centre of gravity, quicker steering response and superior agility to its GTI brethren.

There’s a blip of the throttle as you drop a gear on the 6-speed DSG gearbox and the Scirocco hunkers down to the task ahead while you step on the brakes for your favourite corner. Turn-in is direct and although steering feel may be lacking, the car always goes exactly where you point it. The sports seats hold you steady as you make for the apex, tightening your line slightly with an easing up of the throttle to reveal a hint of tendancy toward lift-off oversteer. The taught suspension and minimal body roll provide you with good feel and control at all times. Putting the ‘pedal to the metal’ as you glide past the apex causes the ESP to step in, limiting any understeer and keeping you in check. The rear-end squats and the exhaust growls as you accelerate towards the next corner to repeat the process with a smile on your face. Head into city traffic and the Scirocco easily settles into a relaxed pace with the reknowned DSG gearbox doing a superb job of capitalising on the available torque of the 2,0-litre motor.

Performance
Two turbocharged engines will be available in the Scirocco. International Engine of The Year for 2009, the 118 kW 1,4-litre TSI will be available from the 3rd quarter of this year but initially the car is only available with VW’s familiar turbocharged 2,0-litre FSI unit. The 2,0-litre turbo may have been borrowed from the outgoing GTI but it has received modifications to the crank, pistons and connecting rods, making it a more refined engine for service in the Scirocco. Peak power remains unchanged with 147 kW available at 6 000 rpm, 900 rpm higher than before and torque of 280 N.m is available from a slightly lower 1 700 rpm through to the 5 000 rpm mark. Floor the accelerator away from the lights and 100 km/h will be reached in a claimed 7.1 seconds, keep your nerve and the Scriocco will reach 233 km/h flat out.

On the open road the Scirocco impressed us with its torquey acceleration between gears and we were almost always travelling faster than expected when glancing at the speedometer. On paper the Scirocco’s 147 kW won’t set any hearts a flutter by today’s hot-hatch standards, even VW’s own Golf 6 GTI eclipses the Scirocco by 8 kW. Thankfully VW are aware of this and the Scirocco’s chassis, with its sure footed and well balanced handling, has already received a 195 kW tuned version of the 2,0-litre turbo in the form of the Scirocco R. The Scirocco 2.0 TSI makes for a mini grand tourer, equally capable whether carving through mountain passes or sprinting across the plains of the Karoo. We look forward to the ‘R’ version however, when the Scirocco’s bite will truely match its bark.

What we like…

• The new face of VW and those sporty rear haunches.
• Head turning style for a bargain price.
• It’s a genuine four seater with a useful 312-litre of luggage space.
• All the makings of a baby GT car.

What we would like…

• Multi-function steering wheel as standard.
• The optional park-distance control to assist with narrow parking in town.
• A more inspiring dashboard to match the exterior styling.
• A sportier exhaust note from the rear to match the agressive looks up front.

The high-performance ‘R’ version of the Scirocco that was previewed as a concept study at last year’s Bologna Motor Show has finally been revealed in production form. The new Scirocco R is powered by a reworked version of the previous Golf V GTI’s 2.0-litre engine. Boasting a higher pressure turbocharger and other modifications such as a new intercooler, the new Scirocco R produces a thrilling 195kW and 350Nm of torque between 2500 and 5000rpm.

The Scirocco R’s 195kW turbocharged 2.0-litre is part of Volkswagen’s EA113 engine lineup, whereas the 155kW turbo’d 2.0-litre unit used in the base Scirocco and in the new Golf VI GTI are from the EA888 lineage. Until now, the EA113 has been used in various states of tune in both the Audi S3 and the Seat Leon Cupra. The reason why VW chose the older generation EA113 engine over the Golf 6 GTI’s newer EA888 2.0-litre TSI is said to be due to the lower development costs.

Not surprisingly, the R’s 195kW 2.0-litre TSI is coupled to VW’s six-speed manual gearbox or alternatively, a twin-clutch DSG semi-automatic transmission. What may be surprising to some however, is that the new Scirocco R is not fitted with Volkswagen’s 4Motion four-wheel drive system. Instead VW have chosen to keep the Scirroco’s standard front-wheel drive layout in the efforts of keeping weight down to around 1330kg’s.

Under the skin, VW have tweaked the chassis of the standard Scirocco in a number of ways. The suspension is lower and features new dampers and springs, larger brake discs all around – measuring 345mm up front and 310mm at the rear, plus a new electronic XDS differential as found in the new Golf GTI.

Volkswagen’s new XDS electronic differential replicates the actions of a limited-slip differential for added traction. But while the Sirocco R puts its power to the road through the front wheels, next year’s Golf GTI-R is set to retain the multiplate clutch, four-wheel-drive 4Motion system from the discontinued Golf R32. And while the launch of the new Scirocco R is exciting news, it also builds anticipation of what to expect in the new Golf 6 GTI-R, or Golf R20T as it may be called.

According to Volkswagen, their new Scirocco R will hit 100km/h from zero in just 6.5 seconds, or 6.4 seconds with the optional DSG transmission. Keep your nerve and the Scirocco R will accelerate to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. In comparison, the the zero to 100km/h sprint times for the 2010 Golf GTI and the last Golf R32 4Motion are 6.9 seconds and 6.5 seconds respectively.

The mechanical upgrades in the new Scirocco are complemented by a new bodykit, which is more subtle than the one first featured on the concept car but nonetheless it does its job to distinguish the coupe from its less sportier siblings. The new styling consists of a larger front bumper that houses bigger air vents, as well as LED daytime running lights, side skirts, new grille, roof spoiler, restyled rear bumper and smoked tail lights. The R model rides on newly designed 18-inch five-spoke rims, while customers can also opt for 19-inch alloys.

Inside, the hottest Scirocco features a set of sporty front bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom – featuring the ‘R’ logo, aluminum decorative trim, as well as subtly restyled instrument dials. European buyers have the choice of leather or cloth seats, which VW has labelled as “‘Kyalami’ fabric weave (named after the Formula-1 race course in South Africa)”.

The new Scirocco R is expected to arrive in showrooms across Europe early in the last quarter of 2009. Expect to see the car in South Africa sometime during the first/second quarter of next year.

Press Release (Click to expand)