2011 Volkswagen Scirocco Review
Price
from: RM188,888
to: RM243,888
Installment
from: RM1,801/mth
to: RM2,326/mth
2011 Volkswagen Scirocco at a glance
More desirable and sportier than the Volkswagen Golf on which it is based, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco offers one of the most complete packages by coupe standards. And to cap it all off, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco is attractively priced against rivals.
2011 Volkswagen Scirocco quick specs
| Body Style | Coupe |
| Class | Sports/GT |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
2011 Volkswagen Scirocco ratings (overall rating : 4.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
The Volkswagen Scirocco's sleek coupe styling immediately imparts a sense of sportiness and style that the rather boxy Volkswagen Golf lacked. In fact, the two are so different-looking—thanks to the loss of the Volkswagen corporate grille, the plunging roofline, curvaceous contours—that few would guess that the Scirocco and Golf are so closely related. But while unquestionably stylish, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco's styling can only be described as handsome, when it could have been stunning.
Handling
Although based on the Volkswagen Golf's platform, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco feels different behind the wheel—most likely down to the wider tracks and lower centre of gravity. The standard, three-mode Adaptive chassis control (DCC) allows for variation in suspension stiffness, steering weighting and throttle response. Building on the Golf's competence, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco feels sportier, gripping harder and reacting more urgently to your every input. Take a shot at those bends, and, more often than not, the wonderful chassis balance, tight body control and meaty, communicative steering will win you over.
Comfort
The 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco remains composed over undulations and its rather firm suspension proves to be supple over battered road surfaces. Cabin refinement is excellent as road, wind and engine noise are kept out effectively while cruising. The sporty, low driving position comes with a steering that adjusts for reach and height, and sculpted seats that adjust for height. As you would expect of a Volkswagen, controls are optimally positioned and intuitive to operate. However, all-round visibility is not great, hindered by thick A-pillars and slim windows.
Quality + Reliability
Boasting solid fit-and-finish and high-grade materials throughout, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco's cabin feels like a quality item that has every area covered down to the finest detail. Without doubt, the cabin is an inviting place to spend time. But while the quality is not in question, the generic cabin design does not do the exterior styling justice, being too similar to other Volkswagen models' to stand out. From the drivetrain to the chassis, the underlying mechanicals have been proven and should be the last of your worries.
Performance
Powered by the 197 bhp, 280 Nm 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine, paired to the six-speed DSG semi-automatic transmission, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco shares the same superb drivetrain as the Volkswagen Golf—one that delivers the hundredth mark from standstill in 7.1 seconds. But that figure does not convey the entire story—of how tractable the engine is low-down and how free-revving it is at the top-end. Aided by the silky smooth-shifting DSG gearbox, the drivetrain is impressively strong, flexible and refined.
Roominess
The driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of room. While not as spacious as the BMW 3-Series Coupe at the back, the Volkswagen Scirocco's rear two seats are usable, unlike the Audi TT's. Ingress and egress from the back may require some flexibility on your part, but once settled, you will find a reasonable amount of legroom, along with decent forward visibility thanks to the elevated rear seats. That steeply raked roofline naturally means that rear headroom will be a problem for taller occupants. The 292-litre boot is well-sized for a car of this type, and can be extended to 755 litres using the 50:50 split-fold rear seats.
Running Costs
Fuel economy is rated at 13.2 km/litre, which is outstanding considering the performance on offer. Servicing and repair costs should compare favourably against rivals', such as the Audi TT and BMW 1-Series Coupe, that wear a premium badge. Wearing the reputable Volkswagen badge and possessing a classy image, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco looks equipped to hold on strongly to its value.
Value for Money
The sexy coupe lines alone could seal the deal for many. But the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco offers much more than that. Sporty through bends, comfortable over undulations, and powered by the Volkswagen Golf GTI's drivetrain, the Volkswagen Scirocco proves to be extremely accomplished on the roads. And that is before mentioning the attractive cabin and well thought-out interior package. It is also cheaper to buy and run than rivals such as the Audi TT and BMW 1-Series Coupe. To cap off the remarkably complete package, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco has a classy image that matches its rivals'. So what's not to like?
Equipment
Standard equipment includes 18" alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, Adaptive chassis control (DCC), dual-zone climate control, cruise control, electric hill hold control, ParkPilot, rain sensor, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, leather multi-function steering wheel, leather upholstery, and 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA/radio touch-screen audio system with iPod connectivity. Safety kit includes front/side/curtain airbags, and braking, traction and stability controls.
Environment
Thanks to TSI technology, which involves both the supercharging and turbocharging of an FSI engine, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco is more efficient than a car with such potent performance has a right to be. Emitting 179 grams/km of carbon dioxide and consuming 13.2 km/litre of petrol, the 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco is as “green” as it gets by segment standards.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Sexy coupe lines
Polished dynamics
Strong, flexible drivetrain
All-round visibility not great
Generic cabin design
Limited rear headroom
