VOLKSWAGEN says the new Scirocco is the most dynamic and technologically advanced production coupé it has ever built.

The car mixes distinctive coupé styling, a practical hatchback boot, a transversely-mounted four-cylinder engine channelling drive through the front wheels and sharp, responsive dynamics.

Full UK specification and pricing will be announced in June when the car will be opened for ordering, prior to the first UK deliveries in September. Prices for the launch model are expected to start at about £20,000.

The car draws inspiration from the Iroc Concept, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2006 and uses deep front airdams and a razor-thin grille element, framed by twin-lens headlight units.

In a rare departure, the Volkswagen roundel has been moved from the grille to the bonnet.

All models feature advanced adaptive chassis control offering three driver-selected settings - comfort, normal and sport - allowing a balance between sharp responses and comfortable everyday accessibility. The system's influence extends to the steering system: should sport' be selected the steering firms up to provide more feel while comfort' mode makes the steering lighter and easier to operate at low speeds or around town.

The new model will be launched in the UK fitted with a 2.0-litre T-FSI four-cylinder engine developing 200 horsepower and driving through the front wheels via a choice of six-speed manual, or six-speed DSG gearboxes.

A range of TSI and common rail TDI engines will also be offered, linked to six-speed manual and seven-speed DSG gearboxes, from the end of the year.