Volkswagen CEO Assures: In an era where automakers are increasingly reviving iconic nameplates and transforming them into SUVs, Volkswagen is taking a stand. According to a recent report from Autocar, Volkswagen Brand CEO Thomas Schäfer has made it clear that the company will not compromise the legacy of its storied models. Specifically, he emphasized that the Scirocco, a beloved performance hatchback, will never be reborn as an SUV. This statement comes as a breath of fresh air for enthusiasts who have been disappointed by other automakers turning legendary sports cars into uninspiring crossovers.
Schäfer’s stance reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to preserving the DNA of its iconic models. He stated, “If it doesn’t reflect the DNA of the original car in a really strong sense, then [we would] rather give it a new name and do something else.” This philosophy is a direct response to industry trends, such as Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross and Ford’s Capri crossover, which have drawn criticism for straying far from their original identities. For Volkswagen, the Scirocco represents a special chapter in its history, and the company is determined to honor its legacy.
The Scirocco, first launched in the 1970s, became a symbol of Volkswagen’s performance prowess throughout the 1980s. After a 16-year hiatus, it returned in 2008 as a three-door hot hatch, but sales were never particularly strong. The model was retired in 2017, leaving fans yearning for a comeback. Recent rumors suggest that the Scirocco could return as a performance electric vehicle (EV), but details remain speculative. Whether an electric version can capture the essence of the original Scirocco remains a topic of debate among enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Scirocco Specifications
Below is a detailed table summarizing the key specifications of the last-generation Volkswagen Scirocco (2017):
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L TSI 4-cylinder turbocharged |
| Power | 220 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 6-speed DSG automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 152 mph |
| Fuel Economy | 28 mpg combined |
| Body Style | 3-door hot hatch |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Curb Weight | 2,976 lbs |
Volkswagen CEO Assures Features
The Scirocco has always been known for its sporty design and driver-focused features. The 2017 model came equipped with:
- Exterior: Sleek, aerodynamic design with LED daytime running lights and 18-inch alloy wheels.
- Interior: Sport seats with premium upholstery, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
- Technology: Adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a premium audio system.
- Safety: Multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Volkswagen CEO Assures Performance
The Scirocco’s 2.0L TSI engine delivered a thrilling driving experience, with quick acceleration and precise handling. Its front-wheel-drive setup and sport-tuned suspension made it a joy to drive on winding roads, while the optional DSG automatic transmission offered seamless gear shifts.
Volkswagen CEO Assures Design
The Scirocco’s design has always been a standout feature. Its low-slung profile, aggressive front grille, and muscular rear haunches give it a distinctive look that sets it apart from other hatchbacks. The interior is equally impressive, with a driver-centric layout and high-quality materials.
Volkswagen CEO Assures Price and Launch Date
The last-generation Scirocco was priced at around $30,000 in its final year. As for a potential revival, Volkswagen has not announced any official plans or launch dates. However, rumors suggest that a performance EV version could debut in the next few years.
Also Read: Chevrolet Corvette: Costco Membership Can Save You $3,000 on a New Corvette
Volkswagen CEO Assures Conclusion
Volkswagen’s decision to preserve the Scirocco’s legacy is a testament to the brand’s respect for its heritage. In a market where automakers are quick to capitalize on iconic nameplates, Schäfer’s commitment to authenticity is refreshing. The Scirocco’s history as a performance icon deserves to be honored, and fans can rest assured that it will not be diluted into an SUV.
The potential return of the Scirocco as an EV raises intriguing questions. Can an electric powertrain capture the spirit of the original? While some purists may argue that a high-revving four-cylinder engine is essential, others believe that modern technology can deliver an equally thrilling experience. With advancements in battery technology, instant torque delivery, and improved aerodynamics, an electric Scirocco could redefine performance for a new generation while maintaining its core DNA of agility and driver engagement.
As Volkswagen continues to innovate, the Scirocco’s legacy serves as a reminder of the brand’s performance roots. Whether it returns as an EV or not, the Scirocco will always hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. Volkswagen has shown a commitment to crafting engaging driver-focused vehicles, and if a future Scirocco does emerge, it will likely be engineered with the same passion and dedication that made previous models legendary.
For now, the future of the Scirocco remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Volkswagen is committed to staying true to its heritage. As Schäfer aptly put it, “If you call something what it is not, be very careful.” This philosophy ensures that any future iteration of the Scirocco will embody the spirit of its predecessors rather than serving as a mere branding exercise. Whether through petrol power or electric propulsion, the Scirocco’s potential revival will be closely watched by enthusiasts worldwide, eager to see how Volkswagen balances nostalgia with innovation.
Volkswagen CEO Assures FAQs
1.Will Volkswagen ever bring back the Scirocco?
While there are rumors of a potential return, Volkswagen has not confirmed any official plans to revive the Scirocco. However, given the industry shift towards electrification, if the Scirocco does make a comeback, it could be as a high-performance electric vehicle (EV) designed to compete with modern hot hatches.
2.Why won’t Volkswagen turn the Scirocco into an SUV?
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has made it clear that the company values the history and legacy of its most iconic models. Unlike some manufacturers that have repurposed legendary nameplates for crossovers, Volkswagen believes that the Scirocco’s identity as a sleek, sporty coupe is too significant to be diluted into an SUV.
3.What made the Scirocco so special?
The Scirocco was celebrated for its sleek design, sporty handling, and affordability. First introduced in the 1970s, it became a symbol of Volkswagen’s performance-oriented engineering, offering an exciting driving experience without an excessive price tag. Its lightweight build, front-wheel-drive dynamics, and stylish coupe design made it a favorite among enthusiasts.
4.Could an electric Scirocco capture the essence of the original?
This remains a hot topic among car enthusiasts. While some believe that modern EV technology—such as instant torque and a low center of gravity—can replicate or even enhance the driving thrill of the original Scirocco, others argue that the high-revving, turbocharged four-cylinder engine played an essential role in its identity. If Volkswagen revives the Scirocco as an EV, it will need to deliver an engaging driving experience that honors the original model’s legacy.
5.What are the alternatives to the Scirocco in today’s market?
Since the Scirocco was discontinued in 2017, several sporty hatchbacks and coupes have filled its niche. Current alternatives include the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Hyundai i30 N (Veloster N in some markets), Honda Civic Type R, and Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ. These models offer a mix of affordability, performance, and fun-to-drive characteristics similar to the Scirocco.
