Overview

The Volkswagen Eos is a four-seat convertible with a power retractable hardtop. Named after the Greek goddess of dawn, Eos joined the Volkswagen line-up in 2007. The retractable hardtop offers passengers an open ?wind-in-your-hair? experience when down, and the comfort of a fixed roof when raised. This sporty convertible remains unchanged, seats four and comes in two trim levels: Komfort and Lux.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2010 Volkswagen Eos models are all powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which rates at 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The Komfort trim gets either a six-speed manual transmission or VW's six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automated-clutch manual transmission; the Lux model gets the DSG as standard. DSG works like a typical automatic transmission on steering-wheel-mounted paddles, but shifts like a traditional manual. The Volkswagen Eos makes the 0-60 sprint in 7.8 seconds flat. With the turbo 2.0 and six-speed manual, fuel economy for the 2010 Eos with DSG is 21/29 mpg (city/highway).

Build and Styling

Volkswagen refers to the roof structure of the Eos as 'CSC' (coupe-sunroof-convertible), which has a panoramic glass sunroof as well as a heated-glass rear window. The Komfort model comes standard with an eight-speaker stereo system with six-CD changer; auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio; 16-inch wheels; a tilting/telescoping steering column; 12-way power driver seat; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic climate control; and cruise control. The Lux model gets bigger wheels of 17 inches (optional on the Komfort) and upgrades to a 12-way power front passenger seat; power-folding heated side rearview mirrors; rain-sensing wipers; Burl Walnut wood interior trimmings; and leather upholstery. Optional on the Lux trim level is a Dynaudio premium sound system with 10 speakers and an output of 600 watts. The Technology Package is available on both trim levels and it adds park distance control and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. Available on the Lux trim is the Navigation Infotainment Package which includes a touchscreen navigation system with an SD memory card slot, a built-in 30GB hard drive, auxiliary audio jack, and a USB port.

Safety Features

Standard safety features on all Eos models include anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, and front side airbags which provide head and abdomen protection. Also standard are automatic rollover bars designed to deploy from behind the rear seats in the event of a tip or collision.