The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI (160 hp) DSG represents a compelling entry point into the third generation of Volkswagen’s sporty coupe, produced from 2008 to 2014. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable option within the Scirocco III range, it aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and modern technology. This variant was built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 (or 1HX0) platform, shared with models like the Golf Mk5 and Audi A3, and offered a more accessible alternative to the higher-performance trims like the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI models. The 1.4 TSI with the DSG transmission was particularly popular in European markets, offering a balance between driving enjoyment and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (160 Hp) DSG |
| 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 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 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) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 147 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 @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Scirocco III, launched in 2008, marked the return of a nameplate that had been absent from Volkswagen’s lineup for over a decade. Revived as a sporty coupe aimed at a younger demographic, the Scirocco III sought to recapture the spirit of the original models while offering modern technology and performance. The 1.4 TSI (160 hp) DSG variant served as the entry-level engine option, providing a balance of affordability and respectable performance. It was designed to appeal to buyers who wanted the Scirocco’s styling and handling characteristics without the higher price tag of the more powerful engine options. This model was primarily sold in Europe and other international markets.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG lies the EA111 engine family, specifically the CAVD or CTHD engine code depending on the production year and market. This 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes both turbocharging and supercharging – a relatively uncommon combination. The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger takes over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. This dual-charging system, coupled with direct fuel injection, allows the engine to produce 160 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is a 7-speed unit, offering quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The DSG transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG delivers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TSI models, the 160 hp engine provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving and spirited backroad excursions. The dual-charging system ensures a responsive throttle response, and the DSG transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes around 8 seconds. The DSG transmission’s quick shifts contribute to a feeling of agility. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.4 TSI, the DSG offers smoother gear changes and easier operation in urban traffic. However, some enthusiasts might find the DSG slightly less engaging than a traditional manual gearbox. The relatively low weight of the Scirocco, around 1285 kg (2833 lbs), helps to offset the engine’s modest power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, parking sensors, and sport seats. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the 1.4 TSI DSG was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the more luxurious or performance-oriented trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco III utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension setup is tuned to provide a slightly firmer ride than the Golf, reflecting the Scirocco’s sporty aspirations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, engaging handling, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.4 TSI engine, while capable, lacked the outright punch of the larger engines in the lineup. Compared to the 1.8 TSI, the 1.4 TSI offered better fuel economy (around 37.3 US mpg combined) but significantly less performance. The 1.4 TSI was also considered more reliable than some of the more complex engine options, with fewer potential issues related to the turbocharger or direct injection system. It represented a good value proposition for buyers seeking a sporty coupe with reasonable running costs.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The EA111 engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered robust when properly maintained. The DSG transmission, if serviced according to Volkswagen’s recommendations, can provide years of trouble-free operation. On the used car market, the Scirocco III 1.4 TSI DSG remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and affordable coupe. Its combination of good looks, decent performance, and reasonable running costs continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. While it may not be the fastest or most luxurious version of the Scirocco III, it offers a compelling package for those seeking a sporty and practical coupe.
