Plunging into the “dark depths” of automotive modifications can be considered to be pretty huge commitment, especially from a financial standpoint. This unceasing challenge to reshuffle the list of enhancements can sometimes be an addictive hobby too, at least from the perspective of a petrolhead. Modifications can be expressed as a form of automotive art, and those kept in the loop will understand the need to evaluate the purpose of the project on the drawing board before attempting to improve on OEM components.

Ethan is one of those who value the importance of planning for modifications on a budget. His Scirocco is testament to the fact that beautiful aesthetics can be achieved without breaking the bank. In fact, it’s rather surprising to realise how much Ethan’s 1.4 TSI companion can transform to its existing state just by fettling with a couple of modifications. Ethan focuses on the intangibles – getting down to the drawing board and ensuring that his aftermarket components are coherent before splashing the cash, an approach that has seen many cars triumph in both style and substance even when pitched against others with a bigger budget.

Ethan purchased his Scirocco in 2012, and was very keen to share with REV his prior decisions before settling on the Volkswagen. “I had a Nissan Latio before this, and it was decked out with a VIP concept. The BMW 325i convertible was also on my shortlist along with the Scirocco, but opted for the Roc as it afforded more performance and cabin space.” It comes as little surprise too that Ethan would stay with a modification project that works along the lines of his previous VIP-themed Latio, and this turned out to be a decision affirmed his purchase. “I got attracted to the Scirocco due to its clean interior lines, along with a neat cabin layout. But what swayed my decision was its sleek silhouette that has a great potential for exterior styling. This factor was more than sufficient for me, because I’m one who value aesthetics over outright performance.”

Ethan’s inspiration for his style came from the West, with “Stance Nation” forming the pivot of his automotive interest in ensuring that tyre and wheel fitment of his Scirocco looks flushed. The ardent fan of lowered cars admitted to having a strong taste for cars that sit as close to the tarmac, a factor that justified his decision to change the OEM suspension to a set of aftermarket coilovers. One look at Ethan’s Scirocco and you might be suggesting that he has spent a huge some of money on all facets of his modifications. In fact, a handful of tweaking was all that is needed to achieve its current aesthetics – an impressive feat to say the least.

Most of his time on the drawing board was spent perfecting the fitment between fenders and tyres. “My research on wheels fitment started the moment I purchased the car, and was heavily influenced by the folks from Europe with their cool rides. I fiddled with plenty of fitments (Five set of wheels in six months to be exact!) and ran into a couple of issues such as fender rubbing, but finally achieved the look that I want. My initial coilover with lowered struts were sourced from a BMW E92 and customised to fit the Roc. I rolled static for about a year before swapping them out for a set of air suspension instead, citing practicality issues. This formed the best compromise as it offered a lowered look as well as functionality on the move.”

While Ethan’s present look for the Scirocco would already have turned the heads of curious onlookers, he is still not resting on his laurels. He intends to explore further with a set of new wheels for an even better fitment. Such is his passion for the perfect stance that inspired him to keep his ride for as long as possible, given the flexibility and good looks of the VW. But he would most likely opt for the continental route when the time comes to change his ride. “My next ride would most definitely be a continental car, with the BMW 6-Series ranking very high up my list. Of course, it depends on the prices largely determined by the fluctuating COE climate.”