The mahoosive VAG conglomerate of auto companies has given birth to a number of cars over the years that are different bodies built of the same platform. Here, we are talking about the Volkswagen Group A platform – specifically the PQ35. It forms the basis of 20 different models – from the Audi TT sportscar, the Skoda Superb saloon and the Seat Toledo family wagon, to a whole host of Volkswagen models. This platform sits under the VW Caddy van, the Tiguan soft-roader, the Eos drop-top to name just a few. But where this platform shines the best is in hatchbacks – and as you can see, that’s what we’re talking about here.

The Volkswagen Scirocco was brought back to life in 2006 as the IROC concept car, and turned into production reality in 2008. Many will say that the Scirocco retained a lot of the IROC’s concept car cues, but the reality is that the IROC was a conceptization built from the already signed off Scirocco showroom-spec car. Still, we’re not complaining – the fact is, it’s one of the most striking hatchbacks on the road.

It’s offered solely as a three-door – which is a good thing – those looking for practicality can bore themselves silly with a Golf. This means that the doors are rather big and access to the rear seats is undignified. But who cares? We’re more interested in what happens behind the wheel, and not how much headroom the lacky in the back has.

Up front is a familiar 2.0-litre turbo lump that dumps out 200bhp or so through the fronts. It’s rapid enough to raise a smile, but not enough to get you into serious trouble. The six-speed, double-clutch, work of art gearbox that is the DSG might change gears quicker than any human can in a manual – but, it does take away a certain element of driving skill from the whole equation.