CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
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Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
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Average Price: Around £9,500

Volkswagen Scirocco (2008-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Loads of cabin space for a sporty coupe	Not quite as sexy as an Audi TT
Driving experience balances sporty and sensible	Not as fun to drive as a BMW 2 Series
High-performance R is great fun	Potential reliability issues

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Scirocco mk3 (2008-2017) is a stylish three-door coupe that bears little resemblance to the Golf on which it's based. With curvaceous styling, wider suspension tracks, and a distinctly different driving experience, it stands apart in the coupe market. The 2014 mid-life refresh brought subtle updates, new engines, and technology upgrades, though the overall design remained largely unchanged. Despite initial popularity, the Scirocco eventually fell victim to the market's shift towards SUVs, with production ending in 2017 without a successor.

Inside, the Scirocco offers a stylish, classy interior with comfortable front seats and plenty of adjustment for the driver. The sloping roofline limits rear headroom for taller passengers, but knee-room is generous for a coupe. The 312-litre boot is usable and extends to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded. The engine range is diverse, from a 120bhp turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol to the thrilling 261bhp Scirocco R. All powerplants are turbocharged, delivering strong mid-range performance. Handling is assured with high levels of roadholding, accurate steering, and a blend of agility and comfort that makes it equally adept on country roads and motorways. However, reliability issues are a concern that requires careful consideration before purchase.

Best for: Drivers seeking a stylish, practical coupe with sporty credentials, those wanting a blend of performance and everyday usability, and enthusiasts interested in the high-performance R variant.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising premium badge appeal (like an Audi TT), those seeking maximum driving fun (like a BMW 2 Series), or those unwilling to invest in a thorough pre-purchase inspection due to potential reliability concerns.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Scirocco if: You want a stylish, practical coupe with sporty credentials, seek a blend of performance and everyday usability, or are interested in the high-performance R variant.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise premium badge appeal, seek maximum driving fun, or are unwilling to invest in a thorough pre-purchase inspection due to reliability concerns.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Scirocco mk3 is a likeable coupe that does affordable coupe duties exceptionally well. It looks racy, feels fast throughout the range, and is more practical than most rivals. However, reliability issues present a significant concern that cannot be ignored. Compared to the Audi TT, it offers better value and practicality but lacks premium appeal. Against the Peugeot RCZ, it provides a more assured driving experience. The Scirocco R delivers genuine sports car performance at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. Before purchasing, seek a reputable independent specialist for a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate potential financial risks.

Read our full Volkswagen Scirocco Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.