After 34 years, Volkswagen revived the Scirocco name.
It was an alternative for the hot-hatch market, with a nicer shape and a better driving experience. It was unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

The 2008 Scirocco remained true to the original formula of the first generation Scirocco: two doors, four seats, front-engine, and front-wheel drive. Like the original, 1974, generation, it featured a lower stance and sportier look. The same ingredients were used for the 2008 model. It was based on the same platform with the Golf, like the first generation.

The Scirocco featured a slim grille with clear-lens narrow headlights. The big bumper and spoiler featured a wide air-intake and Walter de Silva installed on its sides the fog-lights. The frameless windows for the doors and sloped back up to the tailgate enhanced the sporty look.

Inside, the Scirocco was fitted with a flat-bottom steering wheel. The sport-bucket seats were installed lower than in a regular Golf. In the back, there was room for two passengers. A panoramic glass-roof offered an airy feeling even if the interior space was far smaller than in a normal hatchback.

The Scirocco was offered with a choice of three engines: two turbocharged gasoline units and a turbodiesel mated to a standard 6-speed manual. A 6-speed automatic or a 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch) unit was offered as an option.