Volkswagen Middle East brings the Scirocco R to the region

The Scirocco R is the most powerful model ever built in this series, and is the newest car to join Volkswagen's portfolio of models in the Middle East following its unveiling at the 2011 Dubai Motor Show. The Scirocco R combines power, performance, handling and the fun factor making it an outstanding sports car.

Commenting on the new Scirocco R, Stefan Mecha, Mangaing Director Volkswagen Middle East said: "Following the success of the Scirocco R at the 2011 Dubai Motor Show I am pleased to announce that the Scirocco R is now available in the Middle East. The Scirocco is our most successful coupé and now combined with the 'R' features, we have created a sports car that is not only an economical companion for the roads of everyday life but is also a contender on the circuit track."

The coupé from Volkswagen R GmbH is an impressive performance package with a brilliant engine and running gear, an independent look and even more exclusive features. Always aboard as standard equipment: the XDS transverse differential lock on the front axle, which delivers optimal traction and pure driving fun. A turbo four-cylinder TSI is used in the new Scirocco R as in the racing versions of the Scirocco R-Cup.

Like all TSI engines, the R-version used in the Scirocco combines the efficiency of direct injection with the power of turbocharging. Specifically, the 2.0-litre TSI of the Scirocco R attains a maximum power of 187 kW/ 255 HP at 6,000 rpm. Its maximum torque – a hefty 350 Newton-metres – is available over an immense range of engine speed: 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. This sets the stage for responsive engine performance. It can spontaneously summon torque in practically any speed range. The engine's acoustic output impressively highlights its special kind of power development. The exhaust system itself is designed as a double-flow system. Oval chrome tailpipes extend out from the bumper, one on each side, left and right.

The lightweight 1,344 kilogram Scirocco R is a car with motorsport DNA that can sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds and handle the classic 1,000 metre sprint in 25.6 seconds. Top speed: 250 km/h (at 6,320 rpm).

As is so often the case with DSG, gains in dynamic performance (and comfort) are by no means bought at the expense of fuel efficiency or emissions. In fact, the opposite is true, as demonstrated by the car's 8.0 litre combined fuel consumption and 187 g/km CO2 value.

Volkswagen sends the Scirocco R onto the streets with a specially tuned sport chassis and XDS electronic transverse differential lock on the front axle as standard equipment. The latter refers to a functional extension of the electronic differential lock (EDS) that is integrated in the ESP system and effectively eliminates any type of traction loss. The Scirocco R is available with Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) as an option.

Standard equipment includes R-specific 18-inch alloy wheels ("Talladega" type) with size 235/40 tyres. As on the Golf R, an optional 19-inch version of the wheels is also offered. Also similar to the Golf R, the brakes were modified to handle the higher level of driving performance (including a 17-inch instead of 16-inch system). The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) was modified too. A new Sport mode can be selected by pressing the ESP button (centre console). The electro-mechanical power steering was also given a sportier tuning curve.

The front end of the Scirocco R is characterised by three large air intakes in the bumper customised for the Scirocco R. Integrated as standard equipment on the right and left - in the area of the two outboard air intakes - are LED daytime running lights. In front, as at the rear, the Scirocco R is identified by an R logo. Providing for perfect illumination of the roadway, meanwhile, are standard bi-xenon headlights with integrated indicator lights.

Compared to all other production Scirocco, the rear image of this car is dominated by a considerably larger roof edge spoiler and a prominent glossy black diffuser in the lower section of the bumper that reflects typical R-design. In addition, the rear lights of the new Scirocco R were given a smoked tint. Identifying features from a side perspective are new side sills painted in body colour and "Talladega" alloy wheels. The outside mirrors of the Scirocco R are always painted a glossy black, independent of the body colour.

The Scirocco R's interior expresses an altogether refined appearance. As on the Golf R, special interior accents, sport seats (optionally in leather) and numerous other special features were realised. They include dual-zone automatic climate control ("Climatronic") and the "RCD 310" radio system with CD player, MP3 playback function, dual tuners and AUX-IN port.

"We look forward to introducing this model to our customers and emulating the success experienced in other markets. This is our sportiest car yet and one that will appeal to both families and young executives looking for a well crafted and exciting coupé," concluded Mecha.