Volkswagen Scirocco III facelift (137) (2014 – 2017)

Reliability score : 8.3/10

The Volkswagen Scirocco III (Type 137), initially launched in 2008, benefited from a mid-cycle facelift presented at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. This aesthetic refresh (new bumpers, LED taillights, integration of three gauges on the dashboard in homage to the original model) is accompanied above all by a complete overhaul of the engine range to meet the Euro 6 standard. In terms of reliability, this facelift is excellent news: it marks the abandonment of the problematic phase 1 engines (such as the 1.4 TSI Twincharger EA111 and the 2.0 TSI EA888 Gen2, which consumed a lot of oil, or the 2.0 TDI EA189 involved in Dieselgate). The facelifted Scirocco adopts modern and more reliable blocks (EA211, EA888 Gen3, and EA288 for the diesel). The model retains its excellent chassis (based on the PQ3

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability significantly improved on this phase 2 (Euro 6 engines)
2.0 TDI EA288 engine very economical, torquey, and rid of the EA189's flaws
Dynamic road handling and precise chassis (especially with DCC adaptive chassis control)
Timeless design that ages remarkably well
Interior finish quality and typical VW ergonomics

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very poor rear visibility (reversing camera or parking sensors essential)
Difficult access to the rear seats and trunk with a very high loading sill
DSG7 (DQ200) gearbox on the 1.4 TSI still prone to clutch wear in the city
Firm comfort, particularly with 18 or 19-inch wheels
Aging technical platform (PQ35 from the Golf V) compared to newer competitors

🎯 Verdict

The facelifted Volkswagen Scirocco III (2014-2017) is a highly recommendable purchase, particularly with the 2.0 TDI diesel engine (150 or 184 hp). The transition to the Euro 6 standard has eradicated the serious reliability problems of the phase 1 engines. The EA288 block is robust, extremely economical, and perfectly suited for long trips, provided that maintenance is scrupulously respected (DSG6 oil change, water pump). Avoid this diesel if you only drive in the city (risk of DPF/EGR clogging). For mixed use, the 2.0 TSI 220 hp is the ideal compromise combining reliability (EA888 Gen3) and driving pleasure.