2012 Volkswagen Eos

The 2012 Volkswagen Eos is an upscale midsize convertible that combines a pleasant driving experience with the solid quality of an expensive car. The Eos becomes the latest Volkswagen to get the company’s new signature look, comprising of wide horizontal grille.

The Eos comes with an adequately equipped cabin, with improved gauges and a new HVAC control panel. This car will not only attract a lot of attention because of its innovative hardtop roof, but also from its fuel efficient and powerful 2.0L turbo engine.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Convertible Base Price: $34,350.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55L) MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 174.1 in. (442.2 cm) Wheel Base: 101.5 in. (257.8 cm)
Height: 56.9 in. (144.5 cm) Width: 70.5 in. (179 cm)
Curb Weight: 3508 lbs (1591 kg) Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 DOHC Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1
Horsepower: 200 HP Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Auto/Manual
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Sport MSRP: $36,500; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:Lux MSRP: $39,200; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:Executive MSRP: $40,945; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy

Engine & Performance

The VW Eos uses a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain that produces 200 hp and 207 lbs-ft of torque. This power is sent to the front wheel through a standard 6-speed automated transmission (DSG). This transmission comes with separate settings for Sport driving and normal driving modes.

You can shift it manually whenever you want to. You get an estimate 22/30 mpg city/highway using premium fuel. The Eos can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds.

Exterior

The VW Eos is a 4-passenger convertible offered in 3 trim levels: the Komfort, the Lux and the Executive. The exterior is well designed, giving the car an elegant look from all angles. The redesigned nose and tail, further gives the Eos an assertive look.

At the front, the bumper cuts across the upper grille and the lower air dam. The center of attraction is definitely the 5-piece retractable hardtop that folds in 25 seconds. The base trim comes fitted with features that include: 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, LED taillights, wind deflector, heated windshield washer nozzles and keyless entry.

Stepping up to the Lux trim, you get parking sensors, 17-inch wheels, automatic wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power folding mirrors and keyless entry. The top-of-the-range Executive model comes with extra features that include: 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension.

Interior

The Eos boasts of a cabin made of quality material, with a long list of standard features. The one attraction is the power moon roof, incorporated into the retractable hardtop. However, just like any other convertible, the rear seats are a bit cramped since the roof housing uses up some space.

Fortunately, the front passenger and the driver have enough legroom for a comfortable ride. Standard high-tech features include: a satellite radio, iPod integration and Bluetooth. Eos does not have big cargo space, just like other convertibles, but boasts a back-seat pass-through for long items. The maximum cargo space you can get is 10.5 cubic ft with the roof up; but the space reduces to 6.6 cubic ft after dropping the top.

Safety & Reliability

The Eos comes with a long list of safety features. They include: driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags, front-seat side head airbags, brake assist, rollover protection system, emergency trunk release, traction control, electronic stability control, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wheel ABS and daytime running lights.

The Eos is backed with a 3-year/36,000-mile new car warranty, as well as 5-year/60,000-mile engine warranty. Rust damages are covered by a warranty that lasts for the first 12 years regardless of mileage. In addition to that, a free scheduled maintenance is included for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Pros

  • Quality interior
  • Long list of standard features
  • Power hardtop with integrated sunroof
  • Smooth transmission and powerful engine

Cons

  • Impractical trunk
  • Small rear seat

People shopping for upscale midsize cars will be tempted to list the 2012 Volkswagen Eos in their to-buy-list. This is due to the fact that, this convertible is fuel efficient for daily usage, and offers fine handling and smooth rides.

However, the Eos will face competition from rivals like the Saab 9-3 Convertible (MSRP $39,490; 20 city / 33 hwy), the Volvo C70 T5 (MSRP $40,990; 19 city / 28 hwy), and the Mini Cooper S convertible (MSRP $27,950; 27 city / 35 hwy).

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Innovative retractable hardtop with integrated sunroof; solid interior quality; strong and efficient engine; ample feature content…Tight backseat; built for comfort, not speed.” Edmunds

“Light and quick on its feet, the Eos has one of VW’s best drivetrains underhood.”Car Connection

“Eos corners with grippy assurance, communicative steering, and little body lean.”Consumer Guide

“This four-seater has a folding metal hard top with a clever sunroof setting. Open-top motoring is relatively free of wind buffeting. Interior fit and finish are impressive, and the seats are comfortable.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Displaying ride and handling characteristics that approach some of the best fixed-roof coupes we’ve tested, the 2012 Volkswagen Eos qualifies as one of the sturdiest four-seat convertibles on the market….”KBB

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