2007 Volkswagen Eos Hard Top Convertible
By: Juan G. Robbin
It’s… “Steel Origami”
Volkswagen Eos 2.0 T hard top convertible (2007)
The VW Eos has a hard top convertible system that is an engineering tour de force! Not only does it have a retractable hard top, but also a full sized power moon roof integrated into the roof as well. Volkswagen has jumped into the hard top convertible pool, joining the Volvo C70, Pontiac G6 and BMW 3 Series, competing in this recent and all of sudden, crowded specialty segment.
The Eos is a distinctive, smart looking two door, four seat hard top convertible that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. The front fascia has a VW branded recognizable look, as it’s basically borrowed from the Jetta. The rest of the structure is unique to the Eos. Press the fingertip actuated button just forward of the center arm rest and the top begins to do its thing, folding onto itself and retracting into the bowels of the rear hinged trunk. Space in the trunk when the top is folded is limited to a couple of gym sized bags, so if you want to let the sun shine in while on a trip, pack lightly or be ready to place additional bags behind the driver and passenger seats. Rear seating area is snug and tight but usable by adults.
Inside you are greeted with a center mounted multi-function display that takes care of sound and navigation duties. The seats are comfortable and easy to adjust. Steering wheel has finger tip controls for sound, and menus for the center information display. Once seated, you notice the large windshield with a nice touch: hidden windshield wipers, giving a full, uninterrupted forward view offering less of a distraction, especially when maneuvering for parking. There is a center arm rest that has the top actuating controls as well as the hidden, six CD capacity changer, leaving room inside for only small items. There is a good sized glove box as well as large map pockets in each door. Analog gauges are placed around a digital display that shows instant & average MPG, miles to empty, direction of travel and an adjustable speed alarm. We liked the completeness and ease of access of the information but not the distracting bright, red color used in the display.
We drove the VW Eos with the standard 2.0 turbocharged 4 cylinder engine and it was a pleasant experience. Steering and brakes feel tight and strong, more akin to the feel of a sports sedan. Acceleration is good, with a hint of turbo lag. Handling is predictable and light, especially in an urban setting. We noticed a very smooth and stable ride while on the highway. With the top down wind swirls can be reduced even further by popping up the front deflector at the top of the roof windshield pillar.
Volkswagen is trying hard to once again become a company that offers quality, fun-to-drive, fuel efficient cars. There is aggressive competition not only from other German car companies but also from Japanese, Korean and American car makers as well. The Eos is fun to drive, well engineered and has good styling presence. If you like VW automobiles, and happen to be looking for something distinctive, then the VW Eos hard top convertible is definitely worth considering.
The Essentials
MSRP: $30,110.00 MSRP (As tested): $38,465.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 28.5 MPG
Engine: 4 cylinder, 2.0 liter, turbocharged 200 HP
Popular Options: Luxury Pkg. 6 speed auto transmission with DSG, DVD Navigation, Dynaudio premium sound, park distance control.
Visit: www.vw.com