2013 Volkswagen Scirocco R, Best Hot-Hatch We’ll Never Get

Cars, Reviews  /   /  By Derek Mau

The first- and second-generation Sciroccos were sold here in the 1970s and ’80s (full history here), but the third-gen model, a 100 percent dedicated to performance, was restricted to Europe. Introduced in Europe in 2009. The car is not intended for sale in the U.S. market.

We had a chance to briefly drive the Scirocco R and came away totally smitten. Why do they tease us with hot-hatches that that stir the soul the way a muse inspires an artist and  are verboten here in continental U.S.?

Fire up the ignition and your senses immediately anticipate the sporting character of the Scirocco R with its tuned exhaust note. The sport seats cradle you snugly and are well suited for holding you in while charging the curves. On the road, the firm suspension setup keeps the hot-hatch flat in the turns while the summer tires provide more grip than we dare to test its limits. Turn-in is feel is precise and the broad powerband keeps us revving the engine throughout our short test run.

2013 VW Scirocco R

Engine: EA211 turbocharged and direct-injection, 1984-cc four cylinder makes 265 horsepower at 6000 rpm. Maximum torque of 258 pound-feet developed from 2500 rpm.
Transmission: Six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission drives the front wheels.
Performance: 0 to 62 mph in 5.8 seconds; 155 mph top speed: 50-75 mph in fifth gear in 5.5 sec.
Fuel economy: 29 mpg in EC combined driving cycle.
Chassis: Strut-type front suspension, multi-link rear with R-tuned springs and shocks. Standard XDS cross differential lock, with special Sport mode for the stability control system that switches traction control off and has a higher ESC threshold.

  • Optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) uses adaptive damping: Sport, Normal, and Comfort modes.
  • Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/40 tires. Optional 19-inch wheels.
  • Vented disc brakes all around: 13.6 inches in diameter up front, 12.2 in at the back.

2013 VW Scirocco R interior

Exterior features special R body kit.

  • Standard Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs; R-specific front bumper; gloss back grille.
  • Larger tail spoiler; gloss black diffuser; oval chromed exhaust tips; smoked taillights.
  • Side skirts, gloss black mirror caps, and black brake calipers with R logo.

Interior features include:

  • Sport seats with “Kyalami” fabric weave and gray cross-stitching.
  • High-gloss black accents on shifter knob, air vents, and steering wheel spokes.
  • Paddle shifters for the DSG transmission, R-Design flat-bottomed steering wheel.
  • White backlighting and blue pointers for gauges.

Length x width x height: 167.2 x 71.7 x 54.9 in. Curb weight: 3172 lb (DSG).

Base price in Germany: €29,039 excl. 19 % VAT (approx. $39,000).

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