First official pics - VW Scirocco R

The first official photos of the new Volkswagen Scirocco R have been released, together with the new hot hatch's information.

The Scirocco R is Volkswagen's latest effort to spice up the already highly-popular Scirocco. Fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the Scirocco R has 265 hp and 350 Nm of torque - enough to launch the car from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds.

Gear shifts will be handled via a standard six-speed manual or, as an option, the DSG.

Stopping power is provided by R-specific callipers and ventilated discs, measuring a massive 345 mm at the front and 310 mm at the rear.

Instead of having a heavy four-wheel drive system, Volkswagen has given the car the XDS electronic differential (also found on the new Golf MkVI GTI), which brakes the front-inside wheel when the electronics detect slip.

Also available on the Scirocco R is the Dynamic Chassis Control, which will allow drivers to vary their ride settings from sporty to comfortable.

The car will be fitted with 18-inch rims named "Talladega", a name of a race course in the US, which is ironic considering that Volkswagen will not be selling the Scirocco in the US. An 19-inch version of the Talladega is also available as an option.

According to various reports, the Scirocco R is only likely to reach showrooms at the end of 2009.