Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Scirocco review - a worthy hot hatchback alternative? - Interior and tech

The best hot hatchbacks are now more talented and more fun, but the Scirocco still holds appeal for keen drivers

Evo rating
RRP
from £21,040
  • Neat styling, abundant grip, strong engines
  • No longer as fun as the best hot hatchbacks, lacks modern tech

The Scirocco has a well-built and ergonomic cabin – as with most VWs it’s a refined space and there is little inherently wrong with it. However, in terms of design the Scirocco’s interior hasn’t aged quite as well as its exterior. It now lags behind rivals despite minor improvements over the years, and there are few features to surprise and delight. On a more positive note, there are very few complaints with the Scirocco's ergonomics - you sit low (pleasingly so, given the elevated driving positions of comparable hatchbacks), and the usual VW staples of clear instruments and slick controls are present and correct.

GT models and above are enlivened by a trio of dials sitting atop the dashboard – one of which is a useful oil pressure gauge. Cabin feel is improved by choosing one of the alcantara or leather trim options, though all Scirocco cabins are fairly dark in terms of trim - it's a choice of black trim or... black trim.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Scirocco’s real downfall is in its tech; adaptive cruise control, city braking and other recent safety innovations are notable by their absence (though we admit that for some, these will probably be seen as benefits). In terms of infotainment the standard touchscreen system is outdated and lacks the plug-and-play nature that many buyers increasingly crave, but it otherwise works well enough.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
News

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV

If you have to have an SUV, a Stelvio QV is acceptable. Now it's being heavily discounted.
8 Jul 2025
New cars at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed – all the debuts from Aston to Zenvo
Festival of Speed 2025
News

New cars at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed – all the debuts from Aston to Zenvo

The Goodwood Festival of Speed was spectacular yet again. Here are the highlights from the British motoring event of the year
14 Jul 2025
Porsche 963 RSP 2025 review – driving the ultimate one-off Le Mans racer for the road
Porsche 963 RSP review front
Reviews

Porsche 963 RSP 2025 review – driving the ultimate one-off Le Mans racer for the road

That the 963 RSP even exists is absurd. Driving it felt like a fever dream
13 Jul 2025