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VW Phaeton

Can new facelift boost the appeal of VW's luxury flagship saloon?

VW Phaeton

By Joaquim Oliviera

June 2010

  • Rating:

So far, the big saloon has failed to tempt buyers away from the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7-Series in Europe. But in China, the car is in demand, so VW has given it a makeover, including a new grille, bumpers, lights and alloy wheels.

Two lengths are available – the extended version has an extra 120mm in the wheelbase – both featuring spacious, high-quality cabins. Also new is a Google map-based sat-nav, eight-inch touchscreen and 30GB hard disk.

Headlights that automatically dip so not to dazzle other road users along with automatic cruise control, which can stop the vehicle without driver assistance, are also available.

We tested a 3.6-litre V6 version, and the incredible refinement that set the original apart is still in evidence. The engine is whisper quiet, although it can become stretched when pushed hard. The four-wheel-drive system ensures lots of grip, but the adjustable suspension gives a slightly jarring ride over poorly surfaced roads.

For an alternative review of the latest Volkswagen Phaeton visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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6 Comments

Another "also ran"

VW and "snob appeal" - two mutually exclusive concepts. There is no way that an S-Class owner will consider a VW (maker of pleb-mobiles like the Polo and rep-mobiles likes Golf).

By Aurora on 22 June, 2010, 9:57am

Another "also ran"

VW and "snob appeal" - two mutually exclusive concepts. There is no way that an S-Class owner will consider a VW (maker of pleb-mobiles like the Polo and rep-mobiles likes Golf).

By Aurora on 22 June, 2010, 10:08am

Another 'big mistake'

By the stupid badge obsessed public. They should have learned the 'Skoda' lesson by now. The Phaeton is a wonderful car, much more discreet and better value than a hard riding Audi or an overblown overpriced Mercedes. Excellent build quality, a beautiful interior and fine lines make it a worthy sister to the Bentley Continental with which it shares running gear. Thank God for Ferdinand Piech!!

By kingsley_flint on 22 June, 2010, 10:39am

Wait on a Phaeton

I almost bought one yesterday. The only thing that stopped was her in doors. But I will get my own way. I will, I will, I will! Won't I?

By cabcaster on 24 June, 2010, 11:53am

now in the same dilema 20K Reduction 245miles on clock gotta get it

By C30SE_Straight_Six on 26 July, 2010, 12:47pm

Also Ran

I have one - 2004 V8 - and as far as S-Class is concerned , this car beats it hands down.
Frank

By webmesh on 16 November, 2010, 8:06am

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VW Phaeton

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FIRST OPINION

    While rival firms have more modern products, the Phaeton still offers incredible comfort, technology and space. The facelift adds yet more advanced kit and brings the styling up to date. However, its lack of badge appeal is likely to result in heavy depreciation, meaning the VW will remain a niche choice.

 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £50,000 (est)
    Engine: 3.6-litre V6 petrol
    Transmission: Six-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
    Power/torque: 276bhp/370Nm
    0-62mph: 8.6 seconds
    Top speed: 155mph
    Econ/CO2: 24.8mpg/265g/km
    Equipment: Climate control, leather seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic cruise control, xenon lights, Google-based sat-nav
    On sale: August
     
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