2 October 2023
Golf-based coupe was a fitting revival for the classic nameplate, and an even better used buy
Can it really be five years since the last Scirocco Mk3 was registered?Fortunately, it’s still a fresh-looking thing with, especially in performance R-spec form, real road presence. It’s based on the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 of 2004. Nothing to be ashamed of there: the GTI in particular was a fine car.Prices for the Scirocco begin at around £2000. This buys an early car from 2008 or 2009, but slap a private plate on it and it could be mistaken for a post-2015 facelifted model.For this update, external changes ran only to reprofiled bumpers with snazzy aero blades, a new grille, bi-xenon headlights and LED rear lights, while inside, the dashboard was updated and gained three, top-mounted gauges, including one displaying turbo boost.In truth, these post-2015 cars do look sharper, but in a strong colour and sitting on gleaming alloys, any Mk3 looks the business.The Scirocco was launched in 2008 and was soon offered with a choice of engines, the 158bhp 1.4-litre petrol and more powerful 197bhp 2.0-litre being the most popular. The 120bhp 1.4 was less sought after. There were diesels too: first, a 138bhp 2.0-litre followed by one producing 168bhp, a real flyer with impressive overtaking ability.In fact, the Scirocco went on to be very popular with diesel drivers, so today, numbers of used diesel and petrol Sciroccos are almost equally split.Of course, diesels registered before 2015 are Euro 5, so attract a ULEZ charge. Throughout the Scirocco’s life, most engines were offered with a choice of six-speed manual or DSG automatic gearboxes, some with flappy paddles.In 2009, the range was topped off with the arrival of the Scirocco R. Its 2.0-litre petrol engine produced 261bhp, a lot of punch for a front-wheel-drive car, which is why, to aid traction during fast cornering, it was fitted with the XDS electronic differential from the Golf GTI.The suspension, which was lowered and came with Dynamic Chassis Control (an option on some other versions), offered a choice of three settings. The top speed was 155mph and 0-62mph took 6.0sec. Today, these early Rs still fetch strong money, a 2010-reg with 40,000 miles costing around £15,000.Coincidentally, in 2010 the Scirocco gained the Golf Mk6’s smarter dials and steering wheel and then in 2012 a touchscreen sat-nav, but the biggest changes were reserved for the 2015 facelift. This event raised the R’s power to 276bhp.The increase allowed Volkswagen to sneak the new, lesser-powered 217bhp 2.0-litre GTS into the mix. It was fitted with a panoramic sunroof and a bodykit. A new 123bhp 1.4 served those more interested in looks than performance. Meanwhile, the two diesels gained a boost in power to 148bhp and, incredibly, 181bhp.All Sciroccos were well equipped but GT trim (privacy glass, 18in alloy wheels and a multifunction steering wheel) was the most popular. R-Line (19in alloys, nappa leather sports seats and a bodykit) went down well, too.Black Editions of GT and R-Line – which offered darkened lights, black detailing and black alloys – arrived in 2015.So there are a lot of engines and trims available, but which Scirocco should you buy? If you can stretch to it, a facelifted 178bhp 2.0 GT auto is the sweetest of the lot.Volkswagen Scirocco common problemsEngine: With the 1.4 petrols, listen for misfires caused by faulty coil packs. On the 2.0-litre petrol, make sure the timing chain runs quietly (tensioners have been known to wear out).The R has a timing belt, which should be changed every five years. All the engines are turbocharged so check oil changes have been performed on the dot. If the turbo feels a little laggy, it’s probably because the dump valve diaphragm is split. The diesel engines are very reliable.Gearbox: Some owners of manual cars have reported problems selecting second gear and others a strange noise from the clutch. Early DSG autos have a poor reputation (failing clutches due to problems with the mechatronic controller) but from 2012 appear to have improved. Fresh filters and fluid are necessary every four years or 40,000 miles.Steering and suspension: Inspect the dampers for leaks and, where fitted, ensure the DCC functions in all three modes. Check the low-profile tyres for uneven wear and the alloys for kerb damage. The steering can be noisy so give it a few turns lock to lock.Brakes: No real problems but check disc and pad wear and ensure timely fluid changes have been performed.Body: Don’t worry: those small impressions at either ends of the sills are where the jack locates and not damaged. Poor rearward visibility can lead to parking prangs, so check the rear corners. Be sure the windows drop as you open the doors. Older cars may suffer misted lights, torn window rubbers and rusty tailgate struts.Interior: Ensure the small rear parcel shelf is present – and the USB socket works (a new unit costs £600). By John Evans