2007 Volkswagen Eos 2.0T FWD Automatic

Model Highlights

Three trim levels span a wide price range, from $28,110 for the base Eos to $36,970 for the Eos 3.2L. The base Eos and mid-range Eos 2.0T models both have a direct-injected, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque, while the Eos 3.2L upgrades to a 3.2-liter narrow-angle V6 rated at 250 hp and 235 lb-ft. All Eos models have front-wheel drive. While the price gap between the two engines is wide, they're close to each other in real world performance. The V6 improves the Eos's 0-60 acceleration time by only a half-second (from 7.4 seconds to 6.9), according to VW, but does offer more smoothness. The Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), a cleverly engineered double-clutch transmission, makes no sacrifice in performance versus a manual gearbox and can be driven either in manual mode (with steering-wheel shift paddles) or like an automatic transmission. DSG is standard with the V6 and optional with the four-cylinder engine, while a six-speed manual is standard on the four-cylinder models. Safety features include both side-impact air bags and head-thorax bags along with driver and passenger frontal air bags and an automatic rollover protection system. Anti-lock brakes and VW's Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are also standard. The base Eos comes decently equipped with cruise control, remote entry with alarm, and a single-zone automatic climate control, while a dual-zone Climatronic system is standard on 2.0T and 3.2L models. The 3.2L includes many features typically offered on luxury cars, like heated windshield washer nozzles and seats, rain-sensing wipers, and real walnut wood trim. Power rearview mirrors with built-in supplemental LED turn signals are standard on all trims. An available Sport Package costs $3,690 on the 2.0T and includes a long list of upgrades such as leather sport seats, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, and a sport suspension with 17-inch alloy wheels. Customers can also upgrade to an 18-inch "Samarkind" alloy wheel and tire package for an additional $400. On the 3.2L, the 18-inch wheels are included in the Sport Package, which costs $650. A ten-channel, 600-watt audio system by Danish company Dynaudio brings enough power to share your music with the entire neighborhood and is available with the Sport and Luxury Packages for an additional $1,000, or as a standalone option on the 3.2L. The Eos has a roomy interior with modest seating for two in back, generous enough for adults for short trips as opposed to the small 2+2 seating that's used in some other convertibles. Since the top stows into the trunk, cargo space measures 10.5 cubic feet with the top up but only 6.6 cubic feet with the top down. Though Volkswagen's Eos isn't overtly a sports car, it offers a peppy, engaging driving experience with plenty of comfort, top-down thrills, and all-weather, everyday versatility. For that it's a strong value.