Scirocco Speeds in for UK bow

It’s a car fan’s paradise! The Goodwood Festival of Speed is nearly upon us – and this year’s event will see the UK debuts of a number of exciting new models.

Topping the bill will be Volkswagen’s all-new Scirocco GT24 – fresh from taking its competition bow in the Nürburgring 24-hour race. The stripped-out coupé features a 325bhp version of the 2.0-litre T FSI engine and a twin-clutch DSG box, plus a roll cage and race harness.

Not to be outdone, Fiat will bring the hottest version of its 500 supermini to West Sussex on 13 July. The Abarth 595 Assetto Corsa packs a 197bhp version of the 1.4-litre T-jet turbocharged engine, plus 17-inch alloy wheels and twin exhausts, as well as an external rear wing and a roll cage.

And that’s not all. The sky really will be the limit at this year’s Festival of Speed, as the Parajet Skycar is also set to take off at Goodwood. This road-legal vehicle doubles as a paraglider-style flying machine.

Other UK firsts will include Maserati’s revised Quattroporte, as well as the Bentley Flying Spur Speed – the Crewe brand’s fastest-ever four-door. In addition, Vauxhall will bring the new 6.2-litre version of its VXR8 to the event.