Volkswagen Scirocco review - a worthy hot hatchback alternative? - Design
The best hot hatchbacks are now more talented and more fun, but the Scirocco still holds appeal for keen drivers
The IROC concept that originally previewed the Scirocco was unveiled in 2006 so the basic shape is now over ten years old - yet the Scirocco is still a neat piece of design. It’s distinctly a product of Volkswagen, without aping features of the brand’s other models – the slim grille and wide rear hips are still distinctive features unique to the Scirocco in VW’s range. If you're one of those people who assumes all VWs (and other Group products) are simply clones of the others, then the Scirocco is one car you have to concede is a little different from the herd.
The R employs just enough aggression to stand out from the lesser models. It rides 10mm lower on 19in ‘Cadiz’ alloy wheels and gets deeper bumpers and side skirts. LED daytime running lights and silver door mirror caps also distance it from conventional Sciroccos. It's also available in some striking colours, which helps the R stand out - though with colour choices including bright reds, metallic blues and even a shade of purple, even regular Sciroccos are eye-catching.
