Used 2008 Volkswagen Eos

While the cloth-top convertible won’t be going away anytime soon (the New Beetle being a perfect example), the recent proliferation of retractable hardtops shows no sign of slowing. Volkswagen has taken the trend a step further by integrating a glass sunroof into the top of its new four-seat convertible, the 2008 Volkswagen Eos. Hardtop advantages include a more finished, more coupe-like look and feel inside and out, while the downside is generally limited to a reduction in cargo volume when the top is stowed. Named after the Greek goddess of dawn, the Eos is helping to usher in a new era of versatile and practical convertibles.

The 2008 Volkswagen Eos is one of the sturdiest four-seat convertibles we’ve ever driven, with ride and handling characteristics closer to those of a fixed-roof coupe than a typical longer-wheelbase drop-top. We most appreciated the Eos’ chassis rigidity in the curvy sections of our test drive, through which our Eos 2.0T test vehicle carved with more confidence and enthusiasm than we expected. Out on the open highway the ride was controlled but comfortable, and the 2.0T engine was so smooth that on more than one occasion we were surprised to find ourselves cruising along with the six-speed transmission in fourth gear. Front-seat passengers are well protected from wind thanks in large part to a tall front deflector that deploys manually from the top of the windshield frame.

The Eos’ interior is more attractively designed and better put together than those of some cars we’ve driven with sticker prices twice as much. With the top stowed away – after a 25-second mechanical ballet – luggage space shrinks from 10.5 cubic feet to 6.6 cubic feet. Still, that’s three times the cargo volume of a Pontiac G6 Convertible with its top lowered. For something between top-up and top-down, the Eos’ wide sunroof is just the ticket. Typical of four-seat convertibles, the rear seat is somewhat narrow as a result of having to accommodate the top’s mechanicals. Interesting features include an adjustable, cooled glove box and an available dual-zone climate control that maintains separate settings for top-up and top-down driving.

The front of the Eos is dominated by Volkswagen’s now-familiar, U-shaped grille flanked by large, expressive headlamps. Viewed from the side with the top up, a handful of cut lines give away what might otherwise pass as a fixed-roof coupe. Other exterior points of interest include turn signals integrated into the side mirrors, a wheel lineup that ranges in size from 16 to 18 inches and dual exhaust outlets. Adaptive, swiveling bi-xenon headlamps are optional on V6 models, while trunk-integrated antennae add to the Eos’ clean look. In a potential rollover situation, an active roll bar pops up from behind the rear-seat head restraints.

Dynaudio Sound System
The optional 10-speaker, 600-watt audio system produces a full, natural sound that’s among the best we’ve heard.

DSG Transmission
The Eos’ handling characteristics make it easy to utilize and appreciate VW’s quick- and smooth-shifting dual-clutch transmission.

The Eos comes equipped with air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, leatherette seats (dubbed V-Tex) and an eight-speaker CD/CD-MP3 audio system with an auxiliary input jack. Standard safety equipment includes electronic stability controls, front airbags and combination head/thorax side airbags.

Features not included on the base model include a navigation system, leather seats, six-disc CD changer, Dynaudio Premium Sound System, iPod adapter, Park Distance Control, front armrest, rear wind blocker, heatable front seats, power-folding side mirrors and trip computer.

The Eos’ 2.0T engine and DSG transmission comprise one of the most highly regarded powertrains on the road. With FSI direct fuel injection mitigating turbo lag, the 2.0T is unusually responsive. The innovative DSG transmission functions as a no-touch automatic in traffic and a quick-shifting, no-pedal manual when you’re feeling more enthusiastic. While the interactivity provided by a proper six-speed manual transmission matched with the responsiveness and linear power delivery of a naturally-aspirated V6 presents a certain attraction, the Eos does not offer such a combination.)

2.0-liter in-line 4 Turbocharged
200 horsepower @ 5100-6000 rpm
207 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1800-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/29 (manual), 21/30 (automatic)

3.2-liter V6
250 horsepower @ 6300 rpm
235 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500-3000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 (automatic)