Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3
A sharp-suited, front-wheel-drive powerhouse that revived a cult classic nameplate.
- Power
- 261 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.8 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
About the Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3
The Mk3 Scirocco R arrived in 2009 as the performance flagship of Volkswagen's revived sports coupé, eschewing the heavy V6 and four-wheel-drive system of the Golf R32 for a lighter, more agile front-wheel-drive setup. Powered by the EA113 engine, it features an XDS electronic differential to manage its 261 hp through the front wheels. Its distinctive 'shooting brake' silhouette, penned under Walter de Silva, remains one of the most striking designs of its era. While it shares a platform with the Mk5 Golf, the Scirocco R sits lower and wider, offering a more focused driving experience that prioritises sharp turn-in and high-speed stability.
Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3 specs
The Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3 produces 261 bhp (195 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Scirocco R |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | Scirocco R 2.0 TSI |
| Years | 2009–2017 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 261 bhp (195 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.8 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,344 kg (2,963 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 194 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 6 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Scirocco R Mk3 fun facts
- The Scirocco R was never officially sold in North America due to concerns it would cannibalise sales of the Golf GTI.
- Its design was previewed by the 2006 IROC concept, which featured a bold 'Viper Green' paint job that became a signature colour for the production model.
- Unlike the standard Scirocco, the R model features a bespoke front bumper with enlarged air intakes and no fog lights to improve cooling for the brakes and engine.