2008 Volkswagen Eos Review

The 2008 Volkswagen Eos model lineup is composed of four trim levels, from the base convertible hardtop to the Eos VR6. The entry-level 2.0T has a direct-injected, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, as do the Komfort and Lux models. The Eos 3.2L upgrades to a 3.2L narrow-angle V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 235 lb-ft. All Eos models have front-wheel drive.

Instead of using a conventional fabric convertible top, the Eos has a sophisticated folding hardtop arrangement that retracts neatly into the trunk in just 25 seconds with the press of a button. What's more, a panoramic sunroof is integrated into the top to allow plenty of light even when the top is up, avoiding the claustrophobic feel that some soft-top convertibles have with the top up.

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, power rearview mirrors with built-in supplemental LED turn signals, and a single-zone automatic climate control, while a dual-zone Climatronic system is standard on Komfort, Lux, and 3.2L models. The Komfort trim includes heated windshield washer nozzles and seats, while the Lux trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a park distance control, walnut trim, and a CD changer. Aside from the engine, upgrades on the VR6 include a stiffer suspension, 18-inch wheels, HomeLink, and various bits of trim.

A ten-channel, 600-watt audio system by Danish company Dynaudio brings enough power to share your music with the entire neighborhood. A navigation system, an iPod adapter, and xenon headlights are also optional.

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.
Volkswagen's Eos convertible enters its second model year for 2008 with new Komfort and Lux trims, and the 3.2T is now called the VR6. The Sport Package has been retired and heated front seats are a new optional on the base model. see less