If you lust for the Europe-only VW Scirocco like we do, here's yet another reason to consider German citizenship: the Scirocco R.
Volkswagen's "R" division, though not as old as many of its European counterparts, adds the same pulse-quickening stuff as BMW’s ‘M’ and Mercedes-Benz’s ‘AMG’ divisions: Pumped-up engine performance, buttoned-down handling and aggressive bodywork that sets it apart from its softer stablemates.
So when a Volkswagen exec tossed us the keys to a Scirocco R for a quick spin around Wolfsburg, we did what any self-respecting speed freak would do: hightail it to an unrestricted stretch of autobahn.
For those unfamiliar with the Scirocco R's powertrain, under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.0 liter TSI engine that's a tweaked version of the 200hp GTI engine but is closer to the version found in the high-performance Audi S3.
The motor is equipped with a new turbocharger running at 18psi, and is accompanied by new injectors, intercooler and software. Furthermore, the block has a revised cylinder head, low compression pistons, and stronger connecting rods. Together, it cranks out 265hp at 6500rpm and peak torque of 258 lb-ft is sustained from 2500-5000rpm. Even more impressive is the combined fuel economy figure of 29mpg on the European cycle. Zero-to-60mph is achieved in a hair under 6 seconds and terminal velocity… well, we'll cover that in a moment.
The Scirocco's snug cabin is heaven for small-car fans. Typical Teutonic functionality spans the efficient instrumentation, wrapped in tasteful aluminum. It features big, clear gauges just ahead of a flat-bottomed, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The rear seats aren't much to write home about (unless you're 8 years old), but the fronts receive supportive, form-fitting treatment.
Off the line, the Scirocco R feels spritely; although its curb weight of 2963 lb isn't quite Mazda MX-5 territory, yet the lump under the hood goes a long way towards producing usable grunt across the powerband.
The DSG six-speed shifts quickly and smoothly, and clicking over to "S" sport mode squeezes more revs from the engine, allowing for confident merge maneuvers.
We especially loved the signature, low-pitched "snort" between gearshifts, and pushing the "Sport" suspension button offered an appreciably stiffer ride.
When our German test drive put us on the autobahn, the lil' Scirocco scooted its way eagerly to the left lane, pulling ahead with enough authority to warrant flashing slower sub-compacts, who hesitantly pulled out of our way. The TSI engine performed smoothly and predictably, offering a pleasing combination of thrust and well-modulated exhaust note.
The Scirocco's handling felt taut thanks to new springs and dampers, creating a lower ride height. The electro-mechanical steering also benefited from sportier tuning. And although our time behind the wheel was brief, autobahn on-ramps revealed no perceptible understeer, thanks largely to the XDS front transverse differential lock first seen on the GTI. Strong stopping is also possible with the R’s enlarged brakes, which feature 13.6” front rotors.
After spinning through the gears and finally arriving at sixth, we watched the blue needle climb past 6000rpm and the speedo touch 250kph (155mph) – the official limited top speed.
At V-max, the Scirocco felt rock solid, and we would have pressed on at breakneck velocities if we weren't politely ask to flip a U-turn after a few kilometers and head back to Veedub HQ.
Unfortunately, we ran out of time and couldn't test the 270hp, all-wheel drive Golf R, which our sources hint will likely be introduced to the US market at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show. And while we'll gladly welcome the beefed-up Golf R Stateside, it's the Scirocco R that really made our hearts race.