When VW presented the facelifted Scirocco last year, it didn’t introduce a replacement for the GTS model, something it will do at next week’s Shanghai Auto Show.

Technically and cosmetically, the original Scirocco GTS from the 1980s was related to the Golf GTI of its time, but since the current-gen Scirocco already offers VW’s latest 2.0-liter turbocharged four with the same output as the Golf GTI at 220PS or 217hp, the new GTS is essentially a visual package only.

When combined with the standard 6sp manual, the four-pot pushes the Scirocco GTS to 100km/h (62mph) from standstill in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 246km/h (153mph), or 244km/h (152mph) with the optional 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission.

VW’s newest addition to the Scirocco range comes with the R-Line aerodynamics kit that includes bespoke bumpers on both ends, gloss black grille and mirror caps, roof spoiler, side skirts, standard 18- or optional 19-inch wheels and red brake calipers.

Aside from China where stripes are standard, in other markets, VW’s optional list includes racing stripes in two color flavors, red for cars painted in “Deep Black”, “Indium Grey”, “Urano Grey”, “Pure White”, “Oryx White” and black when finished in “Flash Red”.

Borrowing a page or two from the Golf GTI, the GTS gets a black interior with red accents. According to VW, the customization includes:

• Black headliner
• Decorative inlays in “Piano Black Lacquer ” in the centre console and the applications on the dashboard
• GTS badges on the sill panel mouldings
• Customised sports steering wheel with red seams and the lower spoke finished in “Black Piano Lacquer” (with the GTS logo)
• Pedals in stainless steel
• Seat covers with centre panels made of a new material (with the GTS logo at the top of the backrest) and red decorative stitching
• GTS package also includes the legendary golf ball gear knob
• Chrome trim package (for the wing mirror and electric window switches)
• Air vents and inside door handles in “Black Piano Lacquer”
• Contrasting red seams for the safety belts, the handbrake lever, the gear lever gaiter, the central armrest and the floor mats

Finally, the GTS debuts VW’s second-generation Modular infotainment matrix (MIB II) infotainment system that will be offered on all Scirocco models this year.

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