The Volkswagen Scirocco III, specifically the 2.0 TSI variant producing 180 horsepower, represents a mid-range offering within the third generation of this iconic coupe. Introduced with the facelift in April 2014 and continuing through September 2017, this model occupied a sweet spot in the Scirocco lineup, balancing performance with relative affordability. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 (or PQ35) platform – also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform – the Scirocco aimed to recapture the spirit of the original, offering a sporty and stylish alternative to more mainstream compact cars. This particular engine and transmission combination was popular in Europe and other markets where manual transmissions remained prevalent, though it was also available with Volkswagen’s DSG dual-clutch automatic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scirocco |
| Generation | Scirocco III (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (180 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | September, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 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) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 4200-6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1250-4400 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CULA |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1271 kg (2802.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 479 kg (1056.01 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 | 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 129 mm (5.08 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Scirocco 2.0 TSI 180 is the EA888 engine, specifically the CULA variant. This is a 1.984-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder gasoline engine. The CULA engine utilizes direct fuel injection combined with multi-point injection, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a significant boost in power output. This engine is known for its relatively smooth power delivery and willingness to rev. The standard transmission for this variant was a six-speed manual gearbox, though Volkswagen’s DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch automatic was also offered as an option. The DSG provided quicker shifts and a more seamless driving experience, but at a cost.
Driving Characteristics
The 180 horsepower output, combined with 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque, provided a lively driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) took around 7.4 seconds, making it a genuinely quick coupe. The manual transmission offered precise gear changes and allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. Compared to the more powerful 220 or 280 horsepower versions of the 2.0 TSI, the 180 hp model felt more accessible and less demanding to drive. While it lacked the outright punch of its higher-powered siblings, it offered a more balanced and predictable driving experience, particularly for everyday use. The gear ratios in the six-speed manual were well-chosen, providing good acceleration in each gear.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scirocco 2.0 TSI 180 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather options were available. Higher trim levels added features such as sport seats, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights, and parking sensors. The overall interior design was modern and driver-focused, with a sporty aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Scirocco’s chassis featured independent suspension all around – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear – providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards a sporty feel, offering good handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scirocco 2.0 TSI 180 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and relatively affordable price point. Compared to the higher-output versions, the 180 hp model offered a better balance between performance and fuel economy. Fuel consumption figures averaged around 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg), making it reasonably economical for a performance coupe. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus ST and Renault Megane Coupe, the Scirocco offered a more refined and sophisticated driving experience.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Scirocco III, including the 2.0 TSI 180 variant, has established a solid reputation as a stylish and enjoyable coupe. The EA888 engine, in particular, is known for its durability and tunability. On the used car market, these Sciroccos remain relatively popular, particularly among enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command reasonable prices. The 2.0 TSI 180 offers a compelling combination of performance, economy, and style, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a sporty and practical coupe.
