The Scirocco, which is not due to start its production life until the (northern) autumn, has already passed its first endurance test, at the Oschersleben motor sport arena, with flying colours. Among the car’s many features is a direct-shift transmission system utilising Volkswagen’s DSG technology.

Double Le Mans winner Hans Stuck was at the wheel and is relishing his chance to race the Scirocco: ‘I felt immediately comfortable in the car,’ he said. 'The Scirocco is one of the most uncomplicated racing cars I have ever driven. It’s really fun, and I am looking forward to the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife with even greater anticipation.’

Other legends on the driving strength include double World Rally Champion – and victor for Volkswagen of the recent Central Europe Rally – Carlos Sainz, as well as Sainz’s Race Touareg team-mates Giniel de Villiers and Dieter Depping. The Volkswagen board member for technical development, Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, will drive also.

The Scirocco has a tough act to follow: last year a Golf GTI clinched its class and finished eighth overall at the Nürburgring.

‘The racing version of the Scirocco was developed and prepared by our technical staff in record time,’ said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen, ‘and we are well on schedule now that we have successfully completed this first endurance test. The Nürburgring 24 Hours is the ideal platform to showcase the performance capabilities of this exciting coupe.’