2007 Volkswagen Eos Review

PROS
Peppy engine, Good ride/handling balance, Above-average fuel economy, Classy Interior

CONS Minimal cargo space, Cramped back seat

Bridging the gap
For the 2007 model year, Volkswagen introduces a new model called Eos. It's a 4-seat convertible with a power-retracting hardtop that also features a rear defroster and built-in sunroof. Eos shares engines and chassis with the Volkswagen Jetta and competes with sporty coupes like the Mazda MX-5, Mini Cooper, and Volkswagen's own New Beetle convertible.

Though Eos shares its chassis with Jetta, it is almost six inches shorter and 300 pounds heavier. The front-drive Eos comes in three models, Base, 2.0T, and 3.2L. Base and 2.0T come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 200 horsepower. 3.2L comes with a 3.2-liter V6 with 250 horsepower. The Base 4-cylinder comes only with a 6-speed manual. 2.0T adds an available 6-speed automatic. The V6 comes only with the automatic.

Base model has an MSRP of $28,110, 2.0T lists for $30,110, and 3.2L costs $36,970. All models have a destination charge of $640. 2.0T models are available with the $3940 Luxury Package that adds leather upholstery, 6-disc changer, satellite radio, steering-wheel radio control, automatic day/night mirror, rain-sensing wipers and 235/45R17 tires.

Get up and Go
2.0T acceleration can best be described as sprightly, with good scoot away from stoplights and acceptable passing power as long as you downshift. The engine is nearly silent when cruising and is impressively smooth in hard acceleration.

2.0T models with manual transmission are EPA rated at 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. In routine commuting expect to average about 22 mpg; on longer highway trip perhaps as much as 28 mpg. Volkswagen recommends more expensive premium-grade for both engines.

On the Road
Though the Eos is a small car, it doesn't ride like one. The suspension has a European firmness, but isn't overly harsh. On badly broken roads there's enough compliance to soak up the worst bumps. Sadly, on concrete expressways the touring tires kick up quite a ruckus over expansion joints.

On twisting roads Eos feels more sporty than most of its direct competitors. The convertible body is very stiff and there's little cowl shake over bumps, a common malady of many convertibles. Steering is light and direct and the tires have adequate grip. Brakes are strong and pedal action is progressive. In all, the Eos strikes an equitable balance between ride comfort and handling ability.

Behind the Wheel Eos' contemporary interior features lots of soft-touch surfaces and more than a few chrome and aluminum highlights. Gauges are easy to read-top up or top down. Most controls are well placed and clearly marked. However, the available navigation system isn't very user-friendly and also incorporates some audio controls.

Front-seat occupants have ample head and leg room. The seats themselves are firm and supportive, but may be a little too confining for every body type. Height-adjustable seats and standard tilt/telescope steering wheel make it easy for just about any adult to find a comfortable driving position. Outward visibility is great forward, thanks to thin roof pillars and tall windows. Rearward visibility isn't too bad either, but the high deck makes parking a guessing game.

Rear seats offer above average comfort, but little head room. Leg room is adequate for adults if the front seats are pushed forward, but slide the seats more than halfway back and leg room disappears. Though the front seats tilt and slide forward, it's difficult for adults to get in and out of the rear area.

As is typical in convertibles, cargo space is extremely limited. With the top up, there's enough room for a couple of overnight bags and perhaps a garment bag. Top down, there's just enough room for a grocery bag or two. Interior storage is also scant and the optional 6-disc changer takes up the entire center console bin.

Bottom Line With its comfortable ride, peppy engines, and reasonable pricing, Eos vaults to the top of the sporty convertible class. Where most competitors are cramped and claustrophobic, the Eos is a breath of fresh air thanks to its roomy front seats and panoramic sunroof.

With a starting price of around $30,000, the Eos stickers for about $7,000 more than the next closest luxury hardtop convertible. That's just where VW wanted to position it--slightly more than sporty convertibles and considerably less than luxury convertibles. Its an enviable market position and one that should suit Eos well.