2009 Volkswagen Eos - Review

The Basics:

The 2009 Volkswagen Eos is a four-seat, folding-hardtop convertible that's named for the Greek goddess of the dawn. We wouldn't quite call the Eos a goddess in the looks department—especially with the top up—but it seems all right with the top down. Inside, though, the Eos's cabin sports GTI style, enviable Volkswagen materials, and room enough even for adult males in back.

Two engine choices are available in the 2009 Volkswagen Eos: a 2.0-liter, 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder with plenty of available torque, ample thrust, and a 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds with a choice of six-speed manual or dual-clutch transmissions. Volkswagen's brilliant dual-clutch automatic can be shifted like a manual without the clutch pedal. Handling is one of the Eos's best features; it's relaxed enough so that you enjoy the convertible experience, but firm enough to charge around your favorite roads. Fuel economy is strong at 21 mpg city, 30 highway.

The cargo area is a manageable 6.6 cubic feet with the top stowed, larger than that in the Pontiac G6 and Volvo C70 hardtop convertibles, but it's still kind of small. The convertible roof also has a setting that opens the front section like a sunroof. It uses eight electric motors to unlatch from the windshield header and flip and fold under the metal trunklid in 25 seconds.

Stability and traction control are standard on all Eos convertibles, as are head/thorax airbags that deploy from the front seats. A pop-up roll bar is also standard. The 2009 Volkswagen Eos gets a rating of "good" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for front and for side impacts.

Options include a navigation system and an upmarket audio system. Sixteen-inch wheels are a standard feature on the 2009 Volkswagen Eos. Park Distance Control is optional, and 2009 brings a new Technology Package that boasts adaptive front lighting, bi-xenon headlamps, and PDC.