The Volkswagen Scirocco is available to order at dealers across the UK

The Volkswagen Scirocco is available to order at dealers across the UK today after the model’s 15-year absence from showrooms.

Customers can add their names to the Volkswagen Scirocco waiting list – but the first UK cars won’t arrive until September.

View our Volkswagen Scirocco slide show

The price of the Golf-based Volkswagen Scirocco coupe has surprised the motor industry – it’s almost exactly the same as the hatchback.

While a 3-door Golf GTi costs £20,815, the 2-litre and 197bhp Volkswagen Scirocco will be available from just £20,940.

Pay £1,330 more and Volkswagen throws in the excellent DSG gearbox with its, semi-automatic, paddle-shift gearchange.

The Golf GTi engine has been fettled for use in the Scirocco and accelerates it from 0-62 (100km/h) in 7.2 seconds. Amazingly its combined fuel consumption is 37.2mpg, according to Volkswagen.

In 2009 two more engines will join the line-up: a 1.4-litre TSI petrol with 158bhp and a 2-litre diesel with 138bhp – which could cover up to 52mpg.
 
The first Sciroccos on sale will be the top ‘GT’ spec fitted with anti-lock brakes and electronic stability programme to help prevent skids.

They will also boast six airbags, touchscreen CD autochanger, climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a multifunction steering wheel.

Optional extras will include a panoramic sunroof, leather trim and touchscreen sat nav.

A more basic and even cheaper trim level, simply called Scirocco will be available as the smaller-engined models arrive.

We’re attending the European launch of the Volkswagen Scirocco next week, so be sure to check back for our full review.

Check out this official video of the Scirocco in action (Video has no audio)