The Volkswagen Scirocco III 2.0 TDI with the 170 horsepower (Hp) and Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) was a coupe produced between 2009 and 2012. Positioned as a sporty and efficient offering within the Scirocco III range (the 137 platform), it aimed to bridge the gap between the more affordable petrol variants and the higher-performance models. This variant represented a significant step up in torque and overall refinement compared to the base 1.4 TSI models, while offering a more economical alternative to the range-topping 2.0 TSI. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines were popular, offering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBBB, CFGB |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1346 kg (2967.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 454 kg (1000.9 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, 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 2.0 TDI DSG, produced from 2009 to 2012, was a key variant within the third generation of the iconic Scirocco. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), it represented a return to the coupe market for Volkswagen after a 16-year hiatus. This 2.0 TDI model aimed to provide a compelling blend of sporty styling, diesel efficiency, and the convenience of a dual-clutch transmission. It sat in the mid-range of the Scirocco III lineup, offering a step up in performance and refinement from the 1.4 TSI models, but remaining more accessible than the flagship 2.0 TSI.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Scirocco III 2.0 TDI DSG lies the Volkswagen Group’s common rail diesel engine, specifically the CBBB or CFGB engine code depending on the production year and market. This 1968cc, four-cylinder engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 170 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance and efficiency. The common rail direct injection system, operating at extremely high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery and contributes to reduced emissions. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The ‘DSG’ designation refers to Volkswagen’s Direct-Shift Gearbox, a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic. It utilizes two separate clutches – one for the odd-numbered gears and one for the even-numbered gears – allowing for incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. The DSG transmission is electronically controlled and offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The Scirocco III 2.0 TDI DSG offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base 1.4 TSI models. The abundant torque, available from low engine speeds, provided strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 7.7 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 136.7 mph. The DSG transmission contributed to this performance with its quick and precise gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as the 2.0 TSI, the 2.0 TDI offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The gear ratios were tuned to prioritize both acceleration and cruising efficiency. Compared to a manual transmission version of the same engine, the DSG offered smoother shifts and reduced driver fatigue, but some enthusiasts might have preferred the greater control of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco III 2.0 TDI DSG typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, alloy wheels (typically 17-inch), and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was usually a cloth material, although leather options were available as upgrades. Dashboard trim was typically finished in a brushed aluminum or black plastic. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded sound systems. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 2.0 TDI DSG sat comfortably in the mid-range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco III featured a fully independent suspension system. The front utilized a coil spring and wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear employed a multi-link suspension, also with a transverse stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during braking. The chassis was designed to handle the increased torque output of the 2.0 TDI engine, providing a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco III 2.0 TDI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and efficient yet punchy engine. The DSG transmission was also a highlight, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience. Compared to the 1.4 TSI models, the 2.0 TDI offered significantly more performance and refinement. However, it was more expensive and slightly less fuel-efficient. Compared to the 2.0 TSI, the 2.0 TDI offered better fuel economy and lower running costs, but lacked the ultimate performance of the petrol engine. The 2.0 TDI was a popular choice for drivers who prioritized a balance between performance, efficiency, and practicality.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III 2.0 TDI DSG has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the long term. The TDI engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including diesel particulate filter regeneration), is known for its durability. The DSG transmission, if properly maintained (regular fluid changes are crucial), can also provide years of trouble-free operation. In the used car market today, these Sciroccos are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their blend of style, performance, and efficiency. They represent a well-rounded and enjoyable driving experience, and their relatively strong build quality ensures that many examples are still on the road today.
