The Volkswagen Scirocco III, specifically the 2.0 TDI variant with 150 horsepower and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), was produced from April 2014 to September 2017. This model represents a mid-life facelift of the third-generation Scirocco (Type 137), which itself was based on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform – shared with the Mk5/Mk6 Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and SEAT León. Positioned as a sporty coupe, the 2.0 TDI DSG offered a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, targeting buyers seeking a more dynamic driving experience than the base petrol models, but with lower running costs than the more powerful petrol variants like the 2.0 TSI. It occupied a middle ground in the Scirocco lineup, appealing to those who prioritized diesel economy and torque delivery.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | September, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CUUB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 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) |
| Length | 4256 mm (167.56 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1406 mm (55.35 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 205/50 R17; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Scirocco 2.0 TDI DSG is the CUUB engine, a 1968cc inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving responsiveness. The CUUB engine features four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 3500-4000 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 3000 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of diesel engines, providing strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds.
The engine is paired with Volkswagen’s renowned 6-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox). This dual-clutch transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and driving comfort. The DSG automatically selects the optimal gear based on driving conditions, but also allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The transmission’s programming is tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI DSG Scirocco delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The abundant low-end torque makes it easy to accelerate from a standstill or overtake at highway speeds. While not as outright quick as the 2.0 TSI petrol variants, the diesel offers a more relaxed and effortless driving style. The DSG transmission contributes to seamless acceleration, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s powerband. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.2 seconds is respectable for a diesel coupe. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.0 TDI, the DSG offers quicker acceleration and a more convenient driving experience, particularly in urban traffic. However, some enthusiasts may prefer the greater driver engagement of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco 2.0 TDI DSG typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, alloy wheels (typically 17-inch), a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-function steering wheel. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Sport’ or ‘Highline’ offered additional features like sport seats, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and adaptive chassis control (DCC), which allowed the driver to adjust the suspension stiffness.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco’s chassis is comprised of independent suspension at the front (MacPherson struts) and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 2.0 TDI models typically featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The suspension tuning was generally firmer than that of the Golf, reflecting the Scirocco’s sporty aspirations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco 2.0 TDI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, strong performance, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the rear seats were cramped and the limited luggage space could be a drawback for some buyers. Compared to the 1.6 TDI models, the 2.0 TDI offered significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more enjoyable driving experience. Against the 2.0 TSI petrol variants, the 2.0 TDI provided better fuel economy but lacked the same level of outright performance. Reliability was generally good, although like all modern diesel engines, the 2.0 TDI could be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III, including the 2.0 TDI DSG variant, remains a popular choice in the used car market. The CUUB engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, provided it is properly maintained. The DSG transmission, while sophisticated, can require more expensive servicing than a traditional automatic gearbox. The Scirocco’s stylish design and sporty driving dynamics continue to appeal to enthusiasts, and well-maintained examples command reasonable prices. The 2.0 TDI DSG represents a sweet spot in the Scirocco lineup, offering a compelling combination of performance, economy, and practicality.
