Volkswagen introduced the Scirocco in 1973 as a replacement for the Beetle-based Karmann-Ghia and paved the way for the Golf 1.
In 1977, the German carmaker was already successful, and the Scirocco was doing well on the market. Its sales were not as high as on its hatchback sibling, the Golf, but they were good for the segment. They shared the same platform. In 1977, as part of its improvement program, Volkswagen introduced a facelift for the sporty compact coupe.

At the front, the carmaker kept the same four round headlamps and the black grille. For the 1977 model, the Scirocco sported corner-mounted, larger turn signals. Thus, Volkswagen removed the side-mounted additional lamps since the car did not need them anymore. Also, the bumper received a new design, without metallic parts exposed as on the 1973 model. Behind it, the apron was extended on the lower side, and, for the GTI version, it received small scoops on its outer side.

Inside, Volkswagen kept the same interior but with wood veneers on the dashboard. Depending on the trim level, it featured a stereo positioned next to the dials, towards the center of the car. Leather upholstery was offered as an option, with bolstered seats at the front.

Under the hood, the carmaker replaced the base 1.1-liter engine with a 1.5-liter unit that provided more power. The fuel-injected GTI model (also known as GLI on specific markets) was the one to get. With its 110 hp, it was a little pocket rocket for those times.