Due to be unveiled alongside the new Polo at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the Scirocco’s refresh will mark 40 years since the original coupe was shown at the same event in 1974. UK sales begin in May, with first deliveries in September.

Many of the latest updates are under the bonnet, including an entirely new diesel and petrol range with more power and economy.

The likely fleet-favourite 2.0 TDI is available in two power outputs, matching the Golf, comprising a 148bhp version returning 68.9mpg with CO2 emissions of 107g/km, and a 182bhp model which is almost as efficient, returning 65.9mpg and emitting 111g/km CO2.

Petrol options are almost as impressive. These start with a single 1.4 TSI with 123bhp, which offers 52.3mpg and 125g/km CO2 emissions, and two versions of the 2.0 TSI with either 178bhp or 217bhp, each emitting 139g/km CO2 while offering 47.1mpg – figures which aren’t far behind the 138bhp 2.0 TDI available when the Scirocco launched in 2008. The range is topped with a 277bhp Scirocco R.

Refreshed models are marked out by a subtle update of the exterior styling, with front bumper fins similar to the new Golf GTI, a reshaped tailgate with longer LED-lined rear lights now opened using the badge, and a new headlight design. New options include Park Assist, which automatically parks the car, and a bank of auxiliary gauges showing turbo pressure, oil temperature and a clock, said to be a nod to the additional instruments on the first Scirocco.

Order for the new Scirocco open in May, with first deliveries expected in September.