Late last week, Volkswagen announced a performance-oriented variant of its Scirocco hatchback would compete in the Nurburgring 24 hour race, set to begin May 24. Our photographers at the famed race track snapped an exclusive gallery of the upgraded Scirocco, which is set to do battle in the 2-liter turbo category.
During testing, Volkswagen ’s Motorsport Director Kris Nissen said the new Scirocco “was in its element from its very first lap around the Nordschleife.” Last year, VW took first place with its GTI hot hatch — the automaker is hopeful it can repeat that performance with the sleeker Scirocco later this month. The racer is propelled by a 300 hp TFSI motor mated to a dual-clutch DSG transmission.
Two-time Le Mans winner Hans Stuck was at the wheel during testing last week. He said he felt “immediately comfortable” in the car. “The Scirocco is one of the most uncomplicated racing cars I have ever driven. It’s really fun, and I am looking forward to the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife with even greater anticipation.”
The Scirocco, which is not due to start production until the autumn, will only be offered in Europe. The weak U.S. dollar prevented VW from importing the car to America, executives have said.
“The racing version of the Scirocco was developed and prepared by our technical staff in record time,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen, ‘”and we are well on schedule now that we have successfully completed this first endurance test. The Nürburgring 24 Hours is the ideal platform to showcase the performance capabilities of this exciting coupe.”
