Performance diesels are nothing new for the European market, across the Atlantic they love the more affordable fuel prices and longer ranges provided by the alternative fueled machines. Volkswagen has already answered this call with the high performance Golf GTD, a diesel burning alternative to the GTI. So the next step for the German automaker would be to release a diesel version of their latest sports hatch, the Scirocco.

The Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI is powered by a 2.0 Liter TDI engine that produces a maximum output of 165 HP and a potent 258 lb-ft of torque. The alternatively fueled Scirocco can sprint from a standstill to 60 MPH in about 8 seconds and will reach a top speed of 140 MPH. All while returning about 53 MPG in mixed highway and city driving.

The Scirocco GT TDI has just been released in the British market, while we here in the U.S. are still awaiting the vehicles arrival, in any way shape or form.

Press release after the jump.

2009 Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI

Specifications
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  • Model: 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI
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Press release

The new performance diesel variant of the Scirocco GT equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI 170PS engine is now available to order. Combining effortless acceleration, made possible by 258 lbs ft of torque delivered from 1,750 rpm, and the ability to return 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, the new model mixes style, economy and sharp dynamics.

The refined and powerful 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine develops 170 PS at 4,200 rpm and is available linked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG gearbox. Both gearboxes accelerate the Scirocco to 62 mph from a standstill in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 138 mph (DSG: 136), while emitting just 139 g/km (DSG: 147) of CO2.

The latest addition to the Scirocco range is available linked exclusively to the GT trim level and offers a comprehensive list of standard equipment including a six-CD autochanger, rain and dusk sensor, multifunction computer and 2 Zone air conditioning. In terms of safety, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Program) and six airbags are all standard.

For the first time new 19-inch ‘Lugano’ alloy wheels are available as an option.

As with all models in the Scirocco range, the new GT 2.0-litre TDI 170PS is fitted with Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) operating through pneumatic valves in the damper units. The system allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension and steering response settings for the conditions.