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VW Scirocco Bluemotion

Sporty diesel coupe promises over 60mpg

VW Scirocco Bluemotion static

Text: Paul Bond / Photos: Otis Clay

May 2011

Diesel sports cars are a more common sight these days, but it’s worth remembering that when the Scirocco was originally launched back in 2008, petrol power was the only option going.

Times have changed, though, and today the 138bhp 2.0 TDI is the biggest seller, so Volkswagen has introduced a fresh version of the lower-powered oil-burner that’s more efficient than ever.  

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the VW Scirocco

 

Appealing to both heart and head, this new BlueMotion Technology model replaces the 138bhp TDI in the range, and imports 
the fuel-saving tweaks from the class-leading Golf and Polo. 

Power output is unchanged, but the addition of a stop-start system, regenerative brakes and a gearshift indicator help cut 
emissions to 118g/km – annual tax costs only £30. 

What’s more, the sleek 
coupé also manages to return a combined 62.8mpg – no mean feat in a car that can sprint from 0-62mph in only 9.3 seconds. The biggest relief for keen drivers, though, is that the latest eco tweaks haven’t altered the Scirocco’s fantastic drive.

The diesel motor is a little noisy on start-up, but soon settles 
to a pleasing hum. And while 
it lacks the immediacy of the turbo petrols in the line-up, 
it’s still a gutsy performer.

The 320Nm torque output is spread evenly across the rev range, and because it’s available from as low as 1,750rpm, you rarely feel the need to drop a 
gear when overtaking.

In slow-moving traffic, the stop-start system works smoothly. However, occasionally, a symbol  on the dash would illuminate
to signify that the car was 
unable to shut off the engine 
for a short period of time. 

The Golf GTI-derived chassis 
is as brilliant as ever, and the Scirocco’s grippy front end and weighty steering make it a thrilling drive, especially paired with the excellent manual gearbox. 

It may not quite excite in the same way as a faster petrol – but the diesel is a great long-distance cruiser, thanks to first-class refinement and a well balanced ride. Our only reservation is the price – at £23,515, extras such as cruise control and Bluetooth should be included as standard. 

For an alternative review of the latest Volkswagen Scirocco visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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6 Comments

I'm sorry to see that VW still haven't got rid of those ridiculous rear headrests and replaced them with slide down flush ones - they virtually reduce the rear view to the gap between them.

By Wyllie3 on 17 May, 2011, 11:09am

Nice Body - shame about the bum!

When are they going to sort out that hideous rear end that looks like it's already in the end of life vehicle crusher?

By Redalfa on 17 May, 2011, 5:03pm

Its fugly!

Why do autoexpress insist on calling this car a coupe, a coupe is something like a TT, RX8, hyundai coupe etc you know cars that actually like sports cars and not some pig ugly, fat rear ended, squashed hatchback that VW try to persuade buyers is a sports car.......if you bought one you must have no taste

By andydavz on 18 May, 2011, 8:12pm

i must admit in the flesh the sirocco is a lovely looking car

By cosworth28 on 20 May, 2011, 10:20pm

from any angle from the front i agree from the rear errrr no. Years ago you couldnt call it a coupe. All you had was saloon, hatch,estate,coupe(fastback possibly aswell). Times have moved on.you have 4/5door coupes now (CLS/Passat CC/Audi A7 now.Even a SUV coupe(X6). Why not call the rocco a coupe.Its not a true one in the traditional sense,but neither is the rx8.That has 4 doors for a start.

By dukebox9reg on 23 May, 2011, 12:12pm

Why have a guarddog that doesn't bite?

Needs to lose the nappy at the back, but still looks great from the front and side, IMHO.

BUT, it maxes at 129 mph and takes ... yawn ... a leisurely 9.3 second stroll to get to 62 mph - even my 1.4 TSi Skoda Octavia could give it a run for it's money.

And talking of money, over £23k before you start adding options that a Ford Fiesta comes with nowadays. VW, you're 'avin a larf!

Does someone prepared to spend that purchase outlay really care about saving a few £100s in fuel costs each year?

Give me the 2.0 GTi anyday, at least it has teeth.

By FloatingVoter on 24 May, 2011, 8:14am

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Pictures

VW Scirocco Bluemotion static
VW Scirocco Bluemotion interior
VW Scirocco Bluemotion rear seats
VW Scirocco Bluemotion rear corner

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FIRST OPINION

    Three years on, and the Scirocco is as good as ever. If you’re after a diesel, then this economical new arrival is the pick of the bunch, combining smart styling and a fun-filled driving experience with low running costs. Although purists should stick to the more characterful petrols, the BlueMotion’s all-round ability makes it hard to fault. Opting for the DSG box means its eco credentials suffer slightly. 

 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £23,515
    Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbodiesel
    Power/torque: 138bhp/320Nm
    Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive 
    Top speed: 129mph 
    0-62mph: 9.3 seconds
    Economy/CO2: 62.8mpg/118g/km
    Equipment: 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control, electric windows, adaptive chassis control, ESP,  rain-sensing wiper, leather steering wheel with audio controls, MP3 compatibility, CD player, six airbags 
    On sale: Now 
     
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