The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI (160 hp) represents a compelling entry point into the third generation of Volkswagen’s sporty coupe, produced between 2008 and 2014. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable option within the Scirocco III range, it aimed to recapture the spirit of the original Scirocco while offering modern performance and technology. This variant was built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 (or 1HX0) platform, shared with models like the Golf Mk5 and Mk6, and the Audi TT. It served as a key model in Volkswagen’s attempt to appeal to a younger demographic seeking a blend of practicality and driving enjoyment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAVD, CTHD |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1285 kg (2832.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 312 l (11.02 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1006 l (35.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4256 mm (167.56 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2080 mm (81.89 in.) |
| Height | 1404 mm (55.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 11.1° |
| Departure angle | 15.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI is the EA111 engine family, specifically the CAVD or CTHD engine code. This 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine is notable for its combination of turbocharging and supercharging – a relatively uncommon setup. The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag and delivering responsive acceleration. As the engine speed increases, the turbocharger takes over, providing sustained power. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and performance. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and contributing to the car’s engaging driving experience. The engine’s intercooler helps to cool the intake air, maximizing power output.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp output of the 1.4 TSI, coupled with the manual transmission, provided a respectable, if not blistering, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 7.6 seconds, and top speed was around 135 mph. While not as quick as the higher-powered 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The supercharger-turbocharger combination resulted in a surprisingly linear power delivery, making it easy to drive in everyday situations. The gear ratios were well-matched, allowing for comfortable cruising on the highway and responsive acceleration in city traffic. Compared to the more powerful Scirocco models, this variant felt less stressed and more forgiving, making it a good choice for drivers prioritizing efficiency and ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI typically came with a decent level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD stereo system, and electric front windows. Safety features such as ABS and front airbags were also standard. Optional extras included sport seats, a sunroof, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the option of leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clear instrument cluster and logically arranged controls. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 1.4 TSI represented a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the more luxurious or performance-oriented trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco III featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The front suspension incorporated a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The chassis was tuned to provide a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and stylish coupe. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and responsive engine, although some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of the 2.0 TSI models. Compared to the 2.0 TSI, the 1.4 TSI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for daily commuting. It also tended to be less expensive to insure and maintain. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Coupe and the Renault Megane Coupe, the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI stood out for its distinctive styling and refined interior.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the EA111 engine generally considered durable. Common issues include occasional problems with the turbocharger and supercharger, as well as potential issues with the direct injection system. However, these issues are not widespread and can often be addressed with proper maintenance. Today, the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers looking for a stylish and affordable coupe. Its combination of performance, fuel economy, and reliability makes it a compelling option for those seeking a sporty and practical vehicle.
