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First Drive

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Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI

Test date 14 July 2008  Price as tested  £18,790

What is it?

The entry-level Scirocco. Despite its diminuitive capacity, the 1.4-litre engine comes with Volkswagen’s ‘Twincharger’ system, meaning it boasts both a supercharged and a turbocharger, meaning it’s power figures aren’t far off those delivered by the 2.0-litre version. 158bhp (and 177lb ft of torque) are respectable enough, and equate to an 8.0sec 0-62mph time – just 0.8 seconds slower than the 2.0-litre.

What’s it like?

First impressions aren’t great. The engine sounds weedy but stick with it and you find this is a responsive unit that likes to rev.

Peak power comes at 5900rpm and once it gets going it feels quicker than the engine note suggests. Indeed, on the sort of twisty roads you might choose to head for in a compact coupe, the Scirocco 1.4 feels lively and responsive – and in some ways more fun than the heavier 2.0-litre.

Much of this could be down to the smaller wheels (17in compared to 18in) and certainly the fact that the 1271kg kerb weight comes in at 47kg less than the more powerful car.

There is a decent amount of steering feel, and it rides well thanks to well-controlled, soft suspension. Think of it as a chuckable, hard-revving hot hatch and you’re just about there.

>>See more pictures of the Volkswagen Scirocco

Should I buy one?

If you’re looking for a comfortable coupe that also offers a good combination of affordable running costs and useable performance, this is a good option. It may not be the fastest car for the money, but it does feel both special and sensible enough to justify its price tag.

Ollie Stallwood

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