And what is it about automatic temperature settings anyway? Why am I boiling over in a car at 20 degrees and freezing in another one at 23? The Phaeton has plenty of heat to spare, needing me to set it at 19 degrees in order to be comfortable. This is by far the lowest I've ever set an auto HVAC system during mid-winter, so my guess is the 19 degree readout has little to do with the actual temperature inside the car. While I'm sure I would get used to this fault, it's a $100,000 car Volkswagen, get it right!
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| Pivotal car or merely an interesting anomaly? I wouldn't dare guess, but intead I'm just going to enjoy the ride. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
The Phaeton is also a little low on upscale features offered by rival luxury cars, such as an electronic parking brake, electronic ignition key, self-closing doors, adjustable headrest side bolsters, air conditioned rear seats, seat massagers front and rear, etc. These is the kinds of goodies I expect for a price tag that starts at $96,500 and can easily ramp up to well over a hundred if a few extras are added on.
So, will the Phaeton end up as one of the best cars ever made to never see a second-generation version hit the market, or is it actually the pivotal car for changing perceptions about the VW brand? I wouldn't dare guess. Rather I'm just going to enjoy it while it's here, and recommend it to those who aren't in need of much external recognition.
Specifications (V8):
- Price Range (MSRP): $96,500 - $115,730 (not including W12 model)
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, AWD
- Engine: 335-hp, 317 lb-ft torque, 4.2-L, 40-valve, DOHC V8
- Transmission: 6-spd auto with manual mode
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
- Curb Weight: 2,356 kg (5,194 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 600 L (21.2 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 15.6 / 9.7 L/100km
- Fuel Type: premium unleaded
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
- Competitive Vehicles: Audi A8 L, BMW 745iL, Infiniti Q45, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 430, Mercedes-Benz S500
- Web Site: www.vw.com (Canadian specs featured)
Note: Additional larger photos available in photo album.
