The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI, producing 122 horsepower, was a key variant in the revival of the Scirocco lineage, launched in 2008 and continuing through 2014. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the third-generation Scirocco (Typ 137) range, it aimed to deliver a sporty coupe experience at a more accessible price point. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform – also known as the PQ35 – shared with models like the Golf Mk5 and Audi A3, the 1.4 TSI represented a modern interpretation of the classic Scirocco formula, blending style, efficiency, and a degree of performance. This generation marked a significant departure from the Scirocco II, which had ceased production in 1992, and sought to recapture the spirit of the original, offering a more driver-focused experience than many contemporary hatchbacks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (122 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) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAXA |
| 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 | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1244 kg (2742.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 446 kg (983.26 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 | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI is the CAXA engine code, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s design incorporates variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides (DOHC), optimizing performance across the rev range. The 1.4 TSI engine produces 122 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, allowed for responsive acceleration and reasonable fuel economy. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG) was offered as an option. The DSG provided quicker shifts and a more refined driving experience, but at an additional cost.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI-equipped Scirocco offered a respectable driving experience, though it wasn’t the most potent version of the third-generation model. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 9.2 seconds, and the top speed was limited to 124.27 mph. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but turbo lag was present, particularly at lower engine speeds. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine, offering precise shifts and allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI felt less eager to rev and required more downshifting to maintain momentum. However, its lighter weight and more balanced handling made it a fun and engaging car to drive on twisty roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI typically came with a decent level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo system, alloy wheels, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Sport’ trim, added features like sport seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, a navigation system, and upgraded audio systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clear instrument cluster and logically arranged controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco III utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to offer a balance between handling and ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, engaging handling, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when compared to the more potent TSI variants. Compared to the 1.8 TSI, the 1.4 TSI offered lower running costs and a more affordable price tag, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 1.4 TSI also offered better fuel economy than the 1.8 TSI, achieving around 36.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI remains a popular choice in the used car market today. Its combination of style, practicality, and affordability makes it an attractive option for buyers looking for a sporty coupe. The CAXA engine, while not the most powerful in the Scirocco lineup, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and turbocharger inspections. The Scirocco III, in general, helped to re-establish the Scirocco nameplate as a desirable and sporty coupe, paving the way for future generations.
