Available for first deliveries in October, the new model made its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, 40 years after the original. The latest Scirocco features a revised design with new headlights and tail lights, as well as revised bumper styling with aerodynamic “blades” similar to the latest-generation Golf GTI, with integrated indicator lights, daytime running lights and fog lights. 

The new model also brings LED daytime running lights on models with the optional bi-xenon headlights whilst all models now have LED tail lights. At the back there’s also a reshaped bumper whilst, as on the Golf, the VW logo badge is now used to open the boot.

Meanwhile the range-topping Scirocco R is marked off with bespoke bumpers and 19-inch alloy wheels. 

Inside, the dashboard has been updated, with new-look dials and an auxiliary instrument cluster above the centre console, consisting of chronometer, charge pressure and oil temperature gauges in tribute to the 1974 model.

The engine line-up brings six new turbocharged direct-injection petrol and diesel engines. All of them meet EU6 emissions standards and all models bar the R now feature BlueMotion Technology modifications, meaning they come as standard with Stop/Start and also brake energy recuperation systems.

The petrol range consists of a 1.4-litre petrol with 123bhp (was 120), and a new 2.0-litre 178bhp unit, which replaces the previous 1.4-litre 158bhp unit offering improved power and economy. The previous 2.0-litre TSI 207bhp has been replaced with a 217bhp unit that is also 19% more fuel efficient. At the top of the range, the R model is based on a 276bhp 2.0-litre unit: 15bhp more than before.

There’s also two 2.0-litre diesels, with either 148bhp or 181bhp – the lower-powered unit offers combined fuel consumption of up to 67.3mpg with emissions from 109g/km with manual gearbox whilst the figures for the 181bhp diesel (which is only available from GT trim onwards) are 115g/km and 64.2mpg with the manual box.

The 1.4-litre TSI comes only with a six-speed manual gearbox, while all other engines come with a standard six-speed manual gearbox with the option of a six-speed DSG gearbox.

Four trim levels are available: Scirocco, GT, R-Line and R. Standard kit includes touchscreen infotainment system with DAB digital radio with six-disc CD changer; air conditioning; automatic headlights and wipers; an auto-dimming rear view mirror; 17-inch alloy wheels; height-adjustable sports seats; and a multifunction leather-covered steering wheel (with paddleshifts on DSG models).

Prices start at £20,455 for the 1.4-litreTSI 6-speed manual and rise to £33,795 for the Scirocco R 2.0-litre TSI 276bhp 6-speed DSG.