A Creative Drive with the Scirocco

The Scirocco features a short and wide body, measuring 4255mm in length and 1810mm in width (Scirocco TSI, Scirocco 2.0 TSI). Its height is kept low at 1420mm. With its long roofline, it also evokes the feel of a hatchback. It's a modern design that, rather than being just a coupe, could be called a crossover vehicle.

The styling was handled by Volkswagen's design team, led by Walter de Silva. This is the team that has produced numerous good designs for hatchbacks and wagons. The Scirocco is no exception. Placing the wheels at the four corners creates a sense of dynamism. The grille, narrowed at the top and bottom, combined with the uniquely shaped headlamps, gives the front mask a sharp impression. Furthermore, the body shape, which tapers the cabin from front to rear, emphasizes the presence of the rear fenders, creating a sense of power.



“The design of the new Scirocco is aptly described as avant-garde. The lines of the study model, unveiled in August 2006, have been carried over almost unchanged to the production model. For example, the long roof of the wagon/coupe, combined with the C-pillar design that pays homage to the first-generation Scirocco, creates a sporty side silhouette reminiscent of an athlete, characterized by a striking bonnet and a rear-end design with wide shoulders,” according to Volkswagen's press materials prepared at the time of the Scirocco's announcement (summarized by the author).

The Scirocco is creative. Creation is a human capability, and among the things humans have created, some possess the power to evoke emotion, stimulate thought, and generate vitality for new creation within people. The Scirocco is a rare existence with such power.
To see, to ride, to drive. In the process, everyone's senses are greatly stimulated. It is not merely a means of transportation. It is a car for enjoying the drive. In the process, it stimulates intellectual activity. Herein lies the charm of the Scirocco.

Creative entities resonate with each other. For example, excellent architecture. Responsive landscape design. And then, cities are created. The car is also an important presence there. This is because it has the power to bring movement, like blood vessels, to a static city and make it breathe. The Scirocco can create an organic relationship with various elements, from superior landscapes and architecture to the fashion of its occupants. It is truly creative.

A New Automotive Philosophy Presented by the Scirocco

The primary role of design in automobiles is functionalism. This involves maximizing cabin space for passenger comfort, as well as delving into various functions, from driving performance to cargo capacity. In Volkswagen's case, the Golf and Polo score highly in all performance aspects. On the other hand, a crucial role of automotive design is also to elevate the driver's mood and enhance the joy of ownership. With its flowing form and high-quality finish, the Scirocco possesses emotional value in addition to functionalism.

“Its overall length is nearly the same as the Golf. However, compared to the Golf, while the height is lower, the width is expanded to a level comparable to the Passat. The spacious interior can comfortably seat four adults” (summarized by the author). As stated in the press materials, functionality is pursued alongside style. This is undoubtedly one of the Scirocco's appeals.



The Scirocco was introduced to Japan in 2009. The lineup included the 1.4-liter "TSI" (3.48 million yen), which combines a supercharger and turbocharger, the 2-liter turbocharged "2.0 TSI" (4.6 million yen), and the even higher-performance 2-liter turbocharged "R" (5.15 million yen).

The dynamic driving performance does not disappoint. The 1.4-liter features a twin-charger, providing torque from low RPMs, and as the revs climb, the turbocharger engages, delivering a further surge of power. The 2-liter turbo engine offers even more power. Along with its usability in city driving, it provides a sports car-like sensation as the speed increases. And at the top of the range, the "R" features a firmer suspension and sharper handling.

The "Scirocco TSI," equipped with a 1.4-liter TSI twin-charger engine, clears the 2005 emission standards by 75% (achieving a 4-star rating). Its fuel efficiency is 15.4 km per liter, achieving the 2010 fuel economy standards plus 15%. It is therefore eligible for the eco-car tax reduction.
A sports coupe that can be called creative, from its visual appeal to its driving dynamics and environmental performance. The world created by the Volkswagen Scirocco is vast. We will introduce it in a series.