Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | July, 2008 |
| End of production | April, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 232.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBDB, CJAA, CFHC |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1379 kg (3040.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 371 kg (817.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 292 l (10.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 755 l (26.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4256 mm (167.56 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| 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, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Electric Power Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 2.0 TDI with a 140 horsepower output and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) was a popular coupe offered between July 2008 and April 2014. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Scirocco III lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty yet economical vehicle. This generation Scirocco, built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 (or 1HX0) platform – shared with the Golf Mk5 and Audi A3 – represented a revival of the Scirocco nameplate after a 16-year hiatus, focusing on a more stylish and driver-focused experience than its Golf sibling.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Scirocco III 2.0 TDI was the Volkswagen Group’s common rail direct injection diesel engine, available in several iterations denoted by engine codes CBDB, CJAA, and CFHC. These engines featured a 16-valve cylinder head and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The 2.0-liter inline-four produced 140 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 1750 rpm. This torque output was a key characteristic, providing strong pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking. The engine utilized a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards. The six-speed automatic transmission, typically a conventional torque converter type, was tuned for smooth shifts and fuel economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI automatic Scirocco offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as quick as the more powerful 2.0 TSI petrol variants, the diesel engine’s ample torque made it feel responsive in most situations. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t rev as high as it could, prioritizing economy over outright acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered convenience but sacrificed some driver engagement and a slight amount of performance. The Scirocco’s chassis, while shared with the Golf, was tuned for a slightly sportier feel, offering good body control and steering precision.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp model typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. This included air conditioning, alloy wheels (usually 16 or 17 inch), a CD/MP3 stereo system, electric windows and mirrors, 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, navigation system, parking sensors, and bi-xenon headlights. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco III utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were also ventilated discs on most models, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco III 2.0 TDI 140 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond and that the car lacked the outright performance of its petrol-powered siblings. Compared to the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI models, the 2.0 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but less exhilarating acceleration. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Coupe and Opel Astra GTC, the Scirocco stood out with its more distinctive styling and perceived higher quality interior.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 2.0 TDI, while not the fastest version of the Scirocco, proved to be a reliable and economical coupe. The 2.0 TDI engine, in its various iterations, is known for its durability and longevity, provided it receives regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF system. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and practical coupe. Common issues include DPF blockages (especially with frequent short journeys), turbocharger wear, and potential problems with the automatic transmission’s mechatronic unit. Despite these potential issues, the Scirocco III 2.0 TDI remains a popular choice for those looking for a well-rounded and affordable coupe.
