Volkswagen boss Martin Winterkorn confirmed the Scirocco could be released as an AWD model with a high-performance engine, likely to be a version of the turbocharged 4-cylinder mill found in the current generation Audi S3. The current range-topper in the Scirocco lineup is a 2.0L turbo with 200hp (147 kW), but the engine in the S3 develops significantly more at 265hp (195kW).
The GTI and R32 models in the Golf lineup have been successful for Volkswagen and the more sporty positioning of the Scirocco will likely help boost the sales mix for these more powerful – and profitable – models.
On the other end of the performance scale Winterkorn also said that VW could eventually release special "BlueMotion" versions of the Scirocco. These models feature aerodynamic and mechanical tweaks to help reduce C02 emissions and fuel consumption. The base Scirocco is powered by a 1.4L TSI but the BlueMotion will probably be fitted with a low power diesel powerplant.
Sadly the Scirocco won’t make it to the U.S. due to the collapse of the dollar against the euro. Volkswagen sales and marketing chief Detlef Wittig told Bloomberg "the exchange rate is the only reason for not selling it in the U.S. This car would fit the U.S. market but at the current exchange rate we wouldn’t make any money."
