2012 Volkswagen Phaeton

Friday, October 21, 2011

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
At the Transparent Factory in Dresden Volkswagen produces one of the finest automobiles in the world: the Volkswagen Phaeton. The limousine's quality and comfort (four-wheel drive and air suspension as standard) set a unique benchmark. Volkswagen, the most successful carmaker in Europe and China, has now made the VW Phaeton even more perfect. The company's new flagship was unveiled for the first time at Auto China 2010 in Beijing.
Its contours are defined by the Volkswagen design DNA developed by Walter de Silva, the group's Italian chief designer. Around the completely new front section in particular the design team has further refined the model's very own stylistic aplomb. In the process the timelessly elegant Volkswagen Phaeton has gained a broader and more powerful appearance. The new model is also characterised by modifications to its rear section and silhouette.
At the same time, new technical features have been added. These include Dynamic Light Assist (camera-based dynamic main beam regulation) and a navigation system that, if desired, can integrate online data from Google into the map display. In addition to this, the Volkswagen Phaeton's optional front camera enables it to 'see' road signs, with speed limit signs visualised on the instrument panel and centre console's touchscreen. The system will also be able to recognise and depict 'no overtaking' signs - the first in the world to do so!

 INTERIOR
The VW Phaeton's interior ranks as one of the most elegant, high quality and comfortable in the entire premium class. The 4-zone air-conditioning system, for example, that works totally free of any draughts, and the award-winning ergonomic 18-way seats are unsurpassed. All of the Volkswagen Phaeton interior's functions are also intuitive to use. In addition to the version with three rear seats (5-seater), the limousine can be optionally ordered with two electrically adjustable individual seats (4-seater). Furthermore a version of the Volkswagen Phaeton is also available that is twelve centimetres longer. Meanwhile, the limousine can be almost infinitely personalised with a wide range of leather, alcantara and wood trim, plus optional equipment such as a fridge or multimedia systems from Volkswagen Exclusive. This also applies to the completely redesigned multifunction steering wheel. It can be ordered either in leather or in a wood/leather combination matching the relevant wood trim features.

EXTERIOR
Depending on wheelbase, the 2011 model VW Phaeton is between 5.06 and 5.18 metres long. As mentioned above, a completely new front section has been developed for this flagship of the Volkswagen brand. In keeping with the current Volkswagen design DNA, its form is dominated by horizontal lines. Unlike all other Volkswagens created to date on the basis of this new DNA, the Volkswagen Phaeton does not have a shiny black radiator grille cover, but instead a completely new chrome element. Along with the likewise restyled headlights, this radiator trim is a major influence in the new Phaeton's design and underlines its uncompromisingly independent character. In detail the new grille is more upright, while its stricter lines and impressive alternation of materials between polished and matt chrome make it even more striking. The horizontal linking of grille and headlights follows the Volkswagen design criteria and impressively emphasises the vehicle's width. As a sign of its class specific to this model the Volkswagen Phaeton also features three-dimensional moulding of the grille and bonnet, with precise edges that carry the grille's heightened expression of quality on into the sculptured contours of the vehicle body. Once again in the centre of the grille is the classic VW badge, which now - despite integrating the ACC (automatic distance control) system's radar sensors - has a new-look surface design.
To the left and right of the grille are new Bi-Xenon headlamps, which are standard across the range. Integrated within them are cornering and adaptive lights. Not just in visual terms, but from a technical perspective too, this is a whole new generation of headlamps. Firstly, the indicator and adaptive cornering lights are highly visible and stylistically striking LEDs. Secondly, as with the new Touareg, the VW Phaeton will also be available with optional Dynamic Light Assist. Using a camera integrated into the rear-view mirror, this complex technology 'detects' other road users and regulates illumination of the carriageway accordingly (see separate section on Dynamic Light Assist).
The bumper has also been redesigned in keeping with the radiator grille and headlamps. Here too horizontal lines form the guiding principles of the new design. Even the fog lamps have been designed as narrow, horizontal LED strips. Last but not least, the bottom final section of the bumper is now also colour-coordinated with the car body. Compared to the previous model the new generation Phaeton thus looks even sportier and more imposing on the road.
Also modified, the back of the car underlines this impression. The design team decided here not to change the classic, clear and powerful basic style that this area has always had, but instead to develop new LED rear light clusters. Each cluster features dotted lights and an M-shaped LED strip. The result is an unmistakable, elegant look both in daylight and at night. Also new is the VW badge - now likewise in 3D format - on the boot lid.
As at the front, the rear bumper has also been redesigned. It now has a new, three-piece chrome bar and the section of the bumper trim near the road is now also colour-coordinated with the car body. The same goes for the bottom section of the side skirts. Also noticeable in silhouette view are modified side trim strips, narrower LED indicators in the wing mirrors and new 18-inch ('Experience') alloy wheels.

 ENGINE
Powertrain options in the Phaeton remain unchanged. The lone diesel choice is a 240-hp, 3.0-liter V-6, while the gas-powered camp gets the choice between a 280-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, a 335-hp, 4.2-liter V-8, or a 450-hp, 6.0-liter W-12. Interestingly, the Phaeton does not see the updated, 500-hp, 6.3-liter W-12 from the new Audi A8. While the updates include no mention of the Phaeton returning to the U.S., we have heard from several high-placed executives that a comeback is being considered, likely after the next generation arrives in a few years. 

The W12 Phaeton’s 18-way memory power front seats are heatable, ventilated and have a 10-minute massage function and four-way power lumbar support. Rear seats also are heated. Interior trim on seating, steering wheel and doors includes premium wood, leather upgrades, and brushed metal accents.
As with all Volkswagen vehicles, concern for safety is uppermost in Phaeton. As standard safety equipment, both the V8 and W12 models have eight airbags, including Volkswagen’s Side Curtain Protection®; a four-wheel Anti- lock Braking System with emergency brake assist; electronic park assist; an advanced Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP®); and a tire pressure monitoring system.
source:www.netcarshow.com,www.caranddriver.com

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2012 Volkswagen Passat

Friday, July 29, 2011

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2012 Volkswagen Passat
If you've always wanted to drive a classy European sedan but have been put off by that nagging voice in your head telling you it's your patriotic duty to buy something built in America, you'll want to check out the 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
This all-new midsize sedan combines many of the qualities that likely drew you to German cars in the first place, including elegant styling and a more sporting driving character. But it's also the first vehicle to roll out from VW's brand-new assembly plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Compared to the previous Passat (which, incidentally, continues to be sold elsewhere in the world), it's meant to better appeal to American tastes, with a roomier interior, a new selection of engines and (most important) a significantly lower price.
As for the engine lineup, last year's gutsy 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is no more. Instead, VW gives you a choice of three engines: a 2.5-liter inline-5 we've come to know in the Jetta, a 2.0-liter inline-4 diesel (the TDI, also from the Jetta and Golf) or a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. All of them offer some form of six-speed automatic transmission, while the two smaller engines are offered with manual gearboxes as well. The TDI diesel is certainly the most interesting, as it promises more than 40 mpg on the highway and a maximum cruising range of nearly 800 miles.
We suspect some prior owners of VW's mainstream sedan will lament the change in direction for the Passat, as it used to be a distinct bridge between regular family sedans and entry-level luxury cars. But the fact is VW's entry in the crowded family sedan category is now a better fit for the majority of consumers. It's priced right, drives well and finally holds a family of five comfortably. And thankfully, it still has its German roots.
There are some minor downsides to the new Passat package, notably the underachieving base engine. And given the state of the midsize segment, we certainly recommend buyers compare the Passat back-to-back with top choices like the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima. Those interested in a somewhat sportier driving experience may also want to consider the Mazda 6 and Nissan Altima. But for all that, the 2012 Volkswagen Passat remains uniquely positioned to satisfy your desire to drive European and own American.

 INTERIOR
I've been critical of Volkswagen's decision to remove some of the upscale cabin niceties in its redesigned Jetta compact sedan in order to price the car more competitively. Likewise, the new Passat goes without some features that VW enthusiasts might appreciate, like a height-adjustable front armrest, but the overall materials quality, attention to detail and standard features — like one-touch up/down power windows for front and rear occupants, Bluetooth cell phone connectivity and dual-zone automatic air conditioning — make the Passat competitive with the best the family sedan segment has to offer.

The Passat has grown some with its redesign — 4 inches in length, half an inch in width and half an inch in height — but the cabin feels substantially roomier than the outgoing Passat. Legroom and shoulder room have increased — considerably in some instances. I'm 6-foot-1, and even with the front seat adjusted for me, the backseat has nearly as much legroom as a long-wheelbase full-size sedan, which the Passat isn't. This is the kind of car four tall adults could take on a long road trip and arrive no worse for wear — even those sitting in back.

The cavernous passenger area doesn't come at the expense of cargo room, as the trunk measures a competitive 15.9 cubic feet. It's very deep and rectangular, with few intrusions. A 60/40-split folding backseat is standard, and lowering the rear backrests reveals a large opening between the trunk and the cabin.

 EXTERIOR

One of the Passat's most impressive qualities is its forgiving suspension, which translates into comfortable highway cruising. The four-wheel independent suspension yields ride quality that's nearly as soft as a Toyota Camry's, but with better body control over big dips and rises. It's a departure from the previous-generation Passat's firmer ride, but the move makes a lot of sense for this car class, where comfort is more important than sportiness.

As with other Volkswagens, the Passat has light-effort steering whether you get the gas engine, which uses hydraulic power steering, or the diesel, which has electric power assist. The steering wheel provides virtually no road feel — typical for this class — but good precision makes it easy to steer on winding country roads.

Despite the comfy suspension tuning, the Passat doesn't turn into a wallowing mess on serpentine roads. For a big sedan, body roll is well-controlled. All versions of the Passat have the same suspension tuning, but wheel sizes range from 16 to 18 inches.

 ENGINE

As such, it's impossible to avoid the term "out of date" when considering the new 2012 Volkswagen Passat VR6, even though its narrow-angle, 280-horsepower, 258 pound-foot 3.6-liter engine is the one that will make enthusiasts' hearts palpitate most -- even more so than the 140-horsepower, 236 pound-foot 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel. VW is chasing Honda with its new midsize car, and the Accord, after being a V-6 holdout in the '90s, is now the biggest overall-length car in this segment, offered in four-cylinder and V-6 iterations.

In case you haven't kept up, the '12 Passat, exclusive to the North American market, though likely to be a model for China, is a couple of inches longer than a Toyota Camry, 2.5 inches shorter than the Accord, but with a wheelbase 0.2 inches longer than Accord's. It shows in the commodious rear seat's sumptuous legroom and headroom.

VW promises extensive use of high-strength steel, emphasized by the manufacturer's estimated weight. These estimates typically fall short of ours, in which we fill the fuel tanks, but the Passat VR6 comes in at 3,446 pounds, just 49 pounds heavier than a similarly equipped TDI model and 225 heavier than a five-cylinder model with automatic transmission.

SAFETY

The 2012 Volkswagen Passat's list of standard safety features includes antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In the event of a crash, a new feature called Intelligent Crash Response automatically cuts off the fuel supply, unlocks the doors and turns on the hazard flashers.

Driving Impressions

On the road, the 2012 Volkswagen Passat's character depends a great deal on which engine is under the hood. Performance from the 2.5-liter five-cylinder is adequate and should be an acceptable choice for most buyers, but fuel economy and performance are nowhere near best-in-class. The alternative, the 2.0-liter turbodiesel in TDI models, offers significantly better fuel economy and livelier low-end power, but highway passing can be a challenge due to its modest horsepower output.
For those not satisfied with the above, the 3.6-liter V6 engine delivers much more enthusiastic acceleration. The DSG automated manual transmission that's available with the turbodiesel engine and standard with the V6 works very well, and its regular and manual-shift modes mean the Passat is well suited both for commuting and more spirited driving.
On the move, the Passat is an engaging sedan to drive thanks to its well-sorted suspension tuning, precise steering feel and strong brakes. The car also manages to earn high marks for ride comfort, which is ultimately more important considering the fact that most buyers will be far more concerned with schlepping kids to school or co-workers to lunch than burning up winding back roads.
reference:www.motortrend.com,www.edmunds.com,www.cars.com

 

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2012 Volkswagen Eos

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2012 Volkswagen Eos
Eos was the ancient Greek goddess of the dawn, known for her daily ritual of opening heaven's gates to welcome the sun. The 2012 Volkswagen Eos does much the same thing with its retractable hardtop convertible roof or unique built-in sunroof. Yet unlike its goddess namesake, the VW Eos doesn't get a lot of respect -- and we're not talking about offerings of wine and goat meat.
The Volkswagen Eos tends to be forgotten among the convertible ranks despite its many advantages. Besides its innovative roof, the Eos has a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine (shared with the GTI, among others) that delivers punchy power and high fuel economy, and a quick-shifting DSG automated manual transmission. The impeccable cabin is built to a standard that exceeds similarly priced convertibles, and offers abundant standard features that help justify its price premium over other competitors like the Chrysler 200, Ford Mustang and Mini Cooper.
With its size and front-wheel-drive layout, the Eos claims a middle ground between those cheaper models and luxury drop tops like the Audi A5 and BMW 3 Series, and is a must-look for buyers considering convertibles on either end of the price spectrum.
So why hasn't the Eos enjoyed better success? We can only think of a couple of reasons. For one, its backseat is small (although you weren't expecting palatial rear space in a convertible, were you?). And perhaps the Eos' pedestrian styling, which despite being updated for 2012, doesn't really stand out in a segment where looks are prized. Finally, the Eos doesn't move with any particular verve, although it's an adept and comfortable cruiser. Ultimately you'll decide whether these are deal-breakers, but we encourage you to give this little convertible a chance -- and maybe some needed respect.

 INTERIOR
Inside, not much has changed, but chrome trim has been added around power window buttons and light switches. Uplevel versions of the Eos get real walnut wood trim as well as Vienna leather upholstery. For 2012, the base model now gets a standard, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, which incorporates trip computer and audio controls. In addition, an intelligent key system will now be offered, as is HD radio in U.S. models.

The Eos's clean and nicely equipped interior is only slightly modified, with revised gauges and a new HVAC control panel. In Europe, VW will offer a few more options, including an automatic high-beam function and a self-parking assistant, and a keyless entry and start system—including convertible-top control—is available for the first time. It's not quite clear, however, how many of these options will be available in the U.S., where our obsession with pre-packaged, take-it-home-right-now vehicles—instead of individualized, custom-ordered cars—makes a longer options list a greater liability for dealers.

The new Eos should continue to be offered in Comfortline and Highline trim levels. The equipment list, standard or optional, includes adaptive bixenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control, a touch-screen navigation with USB port, SD media card slot and hard drive, a 12-way power driver’s seat and Bluetooth connectivity.

EXTERIOR
Eos, the Titan goddess of dawn, is reborn: At the Los Angeles auto show, Volkswagen is unveiling a heavily face-lifted version of the Golf-based folding-hardtop convertible. The Eos is the latest VW to receive the company's new signature look, with a wide, horizontal grille—instead of the chrome tongue conceived under former chief designer Murat Günak—and a general cleaning up of stylistic clutter. The cutesy, round headlights of the early Eos are now replaced by rectangular units that house VW’s characteristic U-shaped LED daytime running lights, and the LED taillights lose their glitzy white circle for an M-shaped look. There's now a rear diffuser, presumably to allow higher cornering speeds, should you track your Eos on weekends.

Gone are the teardrop headlights, replaced by slimmer units with more detailed clusters. The chrome grille is disappearing from VW products, replaced by a conventional bumper and a black three-bar grille with subtle chrome accents.

The car’s hindquarters also got some changes, with a redesigned bumper that incorporates an air diffuser as well as new LED taillights. In general, the Eos now looks more than ever like a Golf, which makes us wonder why VW is selling a Golf convertible in Europe.

ENGINE
That's also why, for the U.S. market, the Eos keeps a 2.0-liter four-cylinder TSI as its only engine. This engine, derived from the EA888 engine family, makes 200 hp and is coupled to a six-speed "wet" dual-clutch transmission. (No word yet on whether the six-speed manual will remain available in the U.S.) We suspect that top speed remains limited to 130 mph, and 0–60 times should stay below seven seconds. In Europe, the Eos will enjoy a vast lineup of engines, ranging from a 122-hp 1.4-liter to a 210-hp 2.0-liter TSI that can propel the Eos up to 147 mph. There also will be a 140-hp, 2.0-liter diesel. The sweet, 260-horse, 3.6-liter VR6 model sold in Germany is gone.

SAFETY
The 2012 Volkswagen Eos comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, pop-up rollover bars and front side airbags that extend upward for head protection. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing, the VW Eos earned the top rating of "Good" for both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

Driving Impressions

The 2012 Volkswagen Eos is for drivers who want a relaxed touring convertible. On models without the sport suspension, there's too much body roll and vague steering for serious twisting fun. But on the boulevard or a coastal highway, the Eos is perfectly pleasant thanks to its soft yet composed ride. The Eos' turbo four-cylinder contends with more weight compared to VW's GTI, for example, but it's still torquey and capable. And when the weather prevents top-down motoring, the retractable hardtop provides coupelike isolation.
reference:www.auto123.com,www.caranddriver.com,www.edmunds.com

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