Volkswagen Scirocco R (10 on) - Review

Review by Simon McBride on
The R is the hottest variant in the Scirocco line-up. With its rakish lines and throaty soundtrack, the VW Scirocco R is a racy number. It has additional styling cues that set it apart from the standard models but it's when you get behind the wheel that you really notice the difference. A power output of 261bhp makes the Scirocco R on a par with the Volkswagen Golf R and the SEAT Leon Cupra R but it's when you consider the whole package - the looks as well as performance - that the Scirocco tops the lot. Read on to find out why the Scirocco R is the best mainstream coupe on the market.
5 out of 5

Comfort

Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) is a major feature in the set-up on the Scirocco R. This system means that the engineers did not have to compromise between comfort and sportiness. There are three modes to choose from ‘Normal’, ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’. The sensors on the ACC constantly measure the vehicle’s behaviour – be it under braking, acceleration or cornering – and react to ensure the optimum mix of chassis agility and comfort at all times. On start-up the Scirocco R defaults to ‘Normal’ mode in which the system strikes a balance for general use. Switch the settings to ‘Sport’ and the steering assistance is reduced, the damping is hardened and the throttle responses are sharpened as the mapping changes. This is intended for either twisty roads or track driving. For a more leisurely drive select the ‘Comfort’ mode. This will soften the damping and lighten the steering to provide a smooth and controlled ride best suited to motorway driving.

3.5 out of 5

Practicality

For a coupe the Scirocco R is quite practical. The boot has a maximum of 312 litres of luggage space which increases to 1006 litres when you fold the rear seats down. The two adult-sized seats in the rear make this coupe a practical car when out with friends or family.

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How does the boot space compare?

341 litres
301 litres
Volkswagen Scirocco R (10 on)
292 litres
4 out of 5

Behind the wheel

As you would expect, the interior of the Scirocco R is very classy. The dash has been lifted from the Golf: the design is excellent and the materials used are of high quality and soft to touch. There are a few strategically placed ‘R’ badges on the interior just to remind you that you are driving the ‘hot’ version of the Scirocco.