VW Scirocco 1.4 TSI

The smaller 1.4-litre TSI engine makes much more sense in the Scirocco. Not only is it cleaner and more fuel efficient than the 2.0-litre, but the driving experience is just as impressive. Add to that a lower starting price, as well as excellent build quality and great looks, and you’ve got one of the most desirable and fashionable sports coupés currently on the market.

With downsizing on everyone’s minds, smaller engines make more sense than ever – and that goes double for the Volkswagen Scirocco!

The German manufacturer has fitted the coupé with its superb 1.4-litre TSI engine, which benefits from both a turbocharger and supercharger. With 158bhp and a 0-62mph time of eight seconds, it’s no slouch, and there’s very little to differentiate the punchy and responsive 1.4 fromthe larger 2.0-litre TSI.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the VW Scirocco

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Economy is impressive, too. VW claims the smaller unit will achieve 43.5mpg – which is 6.3mpg more than the 2.0. But the engine is far from the only thing going for the Scirocco. As we’ve found with other variants, the handling is sweet and predictable, thanks largely to the Active Chassis Control (ACC) system, which electronically adjusts the suspension damping depending on road surface and driving style.

Inside and out, the 1.4 is identical to its larger-engined brother, offering a typically robust and well laid-out VW interior, as well as chunky, aggressive styling. So although it has 39bhp less power than the 2.0-litre, unless you’re a hardcore enthusiast, the 1.4 TSI takes the honours.

Rival: Mazda RX-8 R3
The latest RX-8 is attractive and great to drive. But it’s long in the tooth, and the looks and woeful economy are no match for the Scirocco.