Scirocco R confirmed for 2012

The Scirocco R is finally on its way to Australia. The four-seat hot hatch the subject of so much deliberation now confirmed for arrival Down Under "early in the new year".

Sporting unique looks, and a brilliant engine/chassis combination, Scirocco R has drawn high praise from motoring publications around the globe since its debut in 2008. But Australia has had to wait.

Now it seems we'll score the pick of the litter, the top-spec 'R' model boasting a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine developing 188kW/330Nm.

Volkswagen Australia will offer the Scirocco R with the choice of manual and Direct Shift (DSG) transmissions, driving the front wheels via its XDL (Extended Differential Lock) differential, the same system found beneath Polo GTI and Golf GTI models. The electronically controlled XDL system is a extension of the Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) that is integrated in the ESP system and reduces traction loss.

Also standard on Scirocco R is VW's Adaptive Chassis Control, the system continually adjusting the damping of individual wheels to suit road conditions. The system offers three settings: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

Among its sporting credentials Scirocco R features 17-inch disc brakes up front with balck-painted callipers and 'R' logo, 19-inch 'Talladega' alloy wheels, black wing mirror caps, prominent rear diffusuer, also finished in black, and additional aerodynamic dressing.

Inside, Scirocco R is trimmed in a style typical to Volkswagen's 'R' models, the upholstery highlighted with special trim accents, 'R' embossing on the headrests, sports seats and a number of so-called 'dynamic features'.

Full specifications and pricing of the Scirocco R will be released at launch in early 2012.

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