2008 Volkswagen Scirocco III Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Scirocco III ranges from 1244 kg to 1395 kg (2743 to 3075 pounds), depending on the specific model and equipment level. This weight balances the car's sporty character with practical usability. The maximum weight, which includes passengers and cargo, varies between 1690 kg and 1800 kg (3726 to 3968 pounds). These weight specifications ensure that the Scirocco maintains nimble handling dynamics while safely accommodating occupants and luggage. The weight figures also reflect structural reinforcements and safety features integrated into the third-generation model.

The Volkswagen Scirocco III provides practical luggage capacity for its class. With rear seats in the upright position, the luggage compartment offers between 292 liters and 312 liters (about 10.3 to 11 cubic feet), which is adequate for daily use and smaller trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity significantly expands to a range of 755 liters to 1006 liters (26.6 to 35.5 cubic feet), allowing for larger cargo or recreational gear to be transported. This flexibility makes the Scirocco III competitive among compact coupes, balancing sportiness with practicality.

Yes, the Volkswagen Scirocco III generally fits well into a standard garage. Given its length of approximately 4.25 meters (around 13.9 feet) and width (excluding mirrors) near 1.82 meters (about 6 feet), it is compact enough for typical residential garages. However, the width with mirrors folded is about 1.8 meters, but with mirrors opened, the width extends to 2.08 meters (6.8 feet); thus, care should be taken when parking or maneuvering to avoid damage. The relatively low height of about 1.40 meters (4.6 feet) poses no challenges. Overall, for garages designed to accommodate mid-sized vehicles, the Scirocco III is easily accommodated.

Compared to its predecessor generations, the Volkswagen Scirocco III exhibits an increased width, ranging from 1810 mm to 1820 mm (71.3 to 71.7 inches). This is notably wider than earlier Scirocco models, which measured closer to the 1.7-meter (5.6 feet) mark. The increased width enhances lateral space inside the cabin, improving shoulder room for both front and rear passengers. This wider stance also contributes to improved stability and handling on the road, making the driving experience more dynamic. The broader track width combined with modern suspension tuning results in better grip and safety, while the additional interior space addresses one of the main criticisms of previous sciroccos that were sometimes cramped.

The Volkswagen Scirocco III has a ground clearance that ranges between 132 mm and 136 mm (approximately 5.2 to 5.4 inches). This relatively low ride height is typical of sporty coupes, contributing to a lower center of gravity which enhances cornering ability and overall handling dynamics. The low ground clearance ensures improved aerodynamics and stability at higher speeds but requires caution on uneven or rough surfaces to prevent underbody damage. Drivers will benefit from the more engaged and responsive driving experience, although it may not be ideal for poorly maintained roads or speed bumps where clearance could be challenged.

The Volkswagen Scirocco III was equipped with a variety of rim and tire sizes that catered to different performance and comfort preferences. Rim sizes included 7J x 17, 8J x 17, and 8J x 18 inches, paired with tire sizes such as 205/50 R17, 225/45 R17, 225/45 R17 W, and 235/40 R18. The wider 18-inch rims combined with the 235/40 tires offer improved grip and cornering precision due to the larger contact patch, enhancing the sporty feel and handling prowess. Smaller 17-inch rims and tires promote a more comfortable ride, better absorbing road imperfections. This diverse range allowed buyers to select setups ranging from comfort-oriented to sport-tuned driving experiences depending on the trim and performance version.

The Volkswagen Scirocco III, produced from 2008 to 2014, marked a significant evolution over the second generation (1981–1992) in several dimensions and design philosophy. It is longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, with length around 4250 mm versus roughly 4080 mm for the second generation, and a width increase of approximately 100 mm. This results in a more modern, aerodynamic, and aggressive look. The design moved from a boxier 80s style to a sleek, contemporary coupe with sharper lines and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. Interior space benefitted from greater width, and safety features were significantly upgraded. The newer Scirocco also incorporated modern technology, a range of more efficient engines, and improved suspension setups providing a substantial leap in driving dynamics and comfort compared to its predecessor.

In comparison with contemporaries such as the Audi TT Mk2, BMW 1 Series Coupe (E82), and Hyundai Coupe (Tuscani), the Volkswagen Scirocco III stands out with its balance of sporty dimensions and practicality. Dimensionally, the Scirocco is slightly longer and often wider than many rivals, offering more interior space and a more aggressive road presence. Its length around 4250 mm and width near 1820 mm positions it as competitive in the compact coupe segment. Performance-wise, the Scirocco III offered a variety of turbocharged engines that delivered spirited power with efficient fuel consumption, matching or exceeding many rivals. The ride height and chassis tuning focused on nimble handling and driver engagement, comparable to sportier trims from competitors. Additionally, its 4-seat configuration and more practical luggage space gave it an edge in daily usability over some two-seater coupes.

The roof load capacity of the Volkswagen Scirocco III is rated at 75 kg (approximately 165 pounds). This rating is important for those considering mounting roof racks, cargo boxes, or sports equipment like bikes or skis. The limit ensures the structural integrity of the roof and avoids compromising vehicle handling or safety. When distributing the load, it's essential to confirm the roof rack system's capacity does not exceed the car's roof load rating. The relatively modest 75 kg capacity suits light to moderate roof loads. Overloading beyond this rating can stress the vehicle’s roof structure and negatively impact vehicle dynamics, so adhering to this limit is critical for safe transport of gear.