EDMUNDS.COM 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PHAETON
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
It competes favorably with Germany''s finest on nearly every level, but without the prestigious name it''s hard to swallow the price.
Pros
Powerful engine lineup, standard all-wheel drive, a features list Mercedes would be proud to call its own.
Cons
Low fuel economy, premium price for a non-premium brand.
What''s New for 2004
The Phaeton is an all-new ultraluxury flagship sedan from Volkswagen.
Overview
Introduction:
Volkswagen is taking a risk by introducing its first true luxury vehicle. Proudly wearing the VW badge, the Volkswagen Phaeton is slated to be the German automaker''s flagship sedan. First introduced in Europe last year, the Phaeton now makes its way to American shores. The U.S. will receive a long-wheelbase version only, as compared to the standard wheelbase version sold exclusively in Europe. The Phaeton is assembled at Volkswagen''s new "transparent" factory located in Dresden, Germany, which opened its doors in 2002. Instead of being a dark and dirty manufacturing plant, the transparent factory is built largely of glass windows and walls with wood floors, without a smoke stack in sight. The very non-traditional atmosphere seems only fitting for this very non-traditional Volkswagen. The stretched Phaeton, almost 5 inches longer than the European model, rides on a 118-inch wheelbase, which gives the flagship sedan plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. At nearly 204 inches long and 57 inches tall, the Phaeton is nearly identical to the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 745Li in length and height. Offered with two engines, including a powerful 6.0-liter W12, the Phaeton is poised to do battle against the top-of-the-line offerings from its fellow countrymen. The Phaeton has full-time all-wheel drive, an abundance of safety features, plus numerous unique creature comforts including a draft-free, four-zone climate control system with humidity sensors and separate temperature controls and an onboard computer system that can also be operated from the rear seat. Are consumers ready for a luxury Volkswagen? Cute New Beetles, sure. Dependable small and midsize sedans, like the Jetta and Passat, OK. But will a true luxury vehicle have an enduring place in the VW lineup? Volkswagen marketing executives say they realize it may take time for consumers to consider a VW sedan in this new, elegant light, but say they''re convinced there is a market for the Phaeton. Volkswagen loses sales every year to consumers who want to move more upscale, but are forced to leave the VW brand for a Mercedes or BMW to do so. VW is hoping that the Phaeton will be just the sedan they need to keep VW showrooms from being overshadowed by their venerable German competition.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The four-door Phaeton is offered in one long-wheelbase body style only. Equipment levels vary depending on which engine is chosen, but all Phaetons come standard with a four-zone automatic climate control system, high-intensity discharge headlamps, heated windshield washer nozzles, entry-exit lights at all doors, an oversize sunroof and a 10-speaker premium sound system with a glovebox-mounted six-CD changer. Choose the V8 Phaeton and 17-inch alloy wheels will adorn the exterior, while interior features include 12-way power memory heated front seats with four-way power-adjustable lumbar support; ambient lighting; eucalyptus wood trim; a leather-wrapped, hand-stitched steering wheel with multifunction controls; a full set of self-dimming mirrors with memory; stainless steel pedals; power rear-window sunshades and side manual sunshades; and a pass-through with ski bag. The 12-cylinder Phaeton adds 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires; quad exhaust pipes (versus dual pipes on the V8); an upgraded 12-speaker sound system with digital sound processing; and additional window tinting. The W12 also benefits from 18-way power-adjustable front seats that are heated and ventilated and have a 10-minute massage functions. The rear seats are heated, too.
Powertrains and Performance:
The Phaeton is available with two engine options: a 4.2-liter V8 which delivers 335 horsepower, or a 6.0-liter W12 which makes an impressive 420 hp. The V8 engine comes mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability, while the W12 receives a five-speed automatic that also offers manual shifting. Both cars are limited to a top speed of 135 mph. All-wheel drive is standard on all Phaetons.
Safety:
All Phaetons have a total of eight airbags, including full-length side curtain airbags. Also standard are four-wheel antilock disc brakes with emergency brake assist, electronic park assist, VW''s ESP stability control and a tire-pressure monitoring system. OnStar, an in-vehicle communication service, is also included.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Inside, the Phaeton''s luxurious cabin is trimmed in wood ranging from walnut to eucalyptus, Italian leather and chrome and brushed metal. Buyers can choose between a four-seat or five-seat configuration, with a wood-trimmed console resting between the rear seats on the four-passenger setup. An integrated vehicle management system uses a 7-inch color screen that incorporates the navigation system, onboard trip computer, stereo system and climate control system.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Fine-tuning the ride for the Phaeton is an air suspension that includes continuous damping control to allow the vehicle to automatically adapt to the road surfaces and driving conditions without the driver''s input. The competent suspension, along with the standard all-wheel-drive system and eager engine, makes for a smooth, yet exciting ride.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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