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Twenty-five seconds. That’s all it takes for the 2012 Volkswagen Eos to transform itself from a sleek, elegant two-door coupe to an open-top, four-seat convertible. While there may be other retractable hardtop convertible models on the market, the new Eos stands apart for being the only one to offer a full-width, power-tilt-and-slide, panoramic glass sunroof integrated in to its hardtop. Únveiled at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, this second-generation Eos was substantially updated for 2012 wîth major styling changes that included a complete new front-end redesign together wîth a host of new features. This latest version went on sale in the Ú.S. in spring 2011. With its focus on providing a fun, dynamic driving experience, the 2012 Eos comes wîth the award-winning, 2.0-liter 200-horsepower turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine coupled wîth a DSG dual-clutch six-speed automatic.

Price: $33,995 – 39,220.
Invoice: $32,635 – 37,651.

Exterior

The revised exterior styling introduced for 2012 brings the Eos into line wîth the latest Volkswagen design DNA. Extending between the new swept-back headlamps is a prominent, slim new grille featuring three gloss-black blades, each trimmed wîth a narrow chrome strip. The new lighting system features the option of Bi-Xenon high-intensity headlamps wîth bright-white LED Daytime Running Lights, plus Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). This can turn the headlamps up to 15 degrees for increased nighttime visibility around curves. A new bumper design incorporates a deep, restyled air dam wîth horizontal blades matching those of the grille.

Mounted at the edges, halogen reflector-lens fog lights have a corner-illuminating feature. At the rear, the Eos has reworked, two-part LED rear lights wîth fiber-optic technology and a redesigned rear bumper wîth lower black diffuser and chrome, dual-tipped exhausts. Top up or down, the 2012 Eos has a sleek, elegant profile, highlighted by a swept-back windshield, slim roof pillars to ensure great all-round visibility, and a bold-muscular body line that starts by the front wheelarch and sweeps back all the way to the rear light.

To give the 2012 Volkswagen Eos the ideal combination of two seemingly incompatible elements— sportiness and comfort—a fully independent suspension has been developed that’s unique to the car. At the front, strut-type suspension is utilized, wîth triangular lower control arms, coil springs, and an anti-roll bar. At the rear is a compact four-link arrangement that is mounted on a subframe that is acoustically decoupled from the main body to reduce road noise and vibration. On the new 2102 Eos Executive, the standard sport suspension has a ride height that’s lowered by around half an inch, while the springs and dampers have firmer settings. Electro-mechanical power §teering is also employed to enhance the driving characteristics of the Eos. It features variable assistance for increased feel and weighting at speed, and less §teering effort at parking speeds.

Other advantages include its mild self-centering action, its ability to compensate for different driving hazards, like crosswinds and steep road cambers, as it dispenses wîth the usual engine-drive pump. The Eos has a tight turning radius of just 35.8 feet, which together wîth the optional Park Distance Control System, makes for easier parking maneuvers. Four-wheel disc brakes come as standard on the 2012 Eos, wîth 12.3-inch diameter vented front discs and solid 10.3-inch rotors at the back. Naturally ABS anti-lock braking is standard, along wîth Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD) and Engine Braking Assist (EBA). Another standard feature is a brake disc wipe feature to remove water from the rotors to help improve braking response, together wîth hill-hold control, and a brake pad wear indicator.

Engines and Transmissions

The 2012 Eos features Volkswagen’s award-winning 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers such an exhilarating driving experience in the latest Volkswagen GTI. This advanced, technically-sophisticated, direct fuel-injection powerplant produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque and features drive-by-wire throttle control and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters. One of the key reasons for the engine’s lively, responsive performance is that it produces all 207 lb-ft of torque from just 1800rpm, allowing for rapid passing and fast exits from tight curves.

For 2012, the front-wheel drive Eos features the remarkable DSG® six-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard. This fast-shifting automatic enables the Eos to deliver an EPA fuel economy rating of 30 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in city driving. DSG combines the comfort and ease-of-use of an automatic, wîth the responsiveness and economy of a manual. The six-speed, transversely-mounted DSG unit features two wet clutches wîth hydraulic pressure regulation. One clutch controls the ‘odd’ gears—1st, 3rd, 5th and reverse—while the other operates the even gears. Essentially it is two gearboxes in one.

With DSG, the set-up allows the next-higher gear to be engaged, but remain on standby until it is actually selected. In other words, if the Eos is being driven in third gear, fourth is selected but not yet activated. As soon as the ideal shift point is reached, the clutch on the third-gear side opens, the other clutch closes and fourth gear engages under accurate electronic supervision. Since the opening and closing actions of the two clutches overlap, a smooth gearshift results and the entire shift process is completed in less than four-hundredths of a second. In addition to its fully automatic shift mode, DSG has a Tiptronic® function to permit manual gear selection. For even livelier performance, the DSG in the Eos also features a Sport mode, which makes the transmission even more responsive to the throttle and will hold on to gears longer.

Interior

Adding to the considerable versatility of the 2012 Eos is its ability to carry four adults in comfort, and still have space for their luggage. With the Eos’s top raised, the trunk offers a generous 10.5 cubic feet of storage space. With the roof fully-retracted, there is still a usable 6.6 cubic feet. For longer items, a lockable pass-through is integrated into the Eos’s rear seats. Just stepping into the cabin of the Eos you are instantly aware of the high-luxury features and the exceptional quality and fit and finish of the materials. From the soft-touch feel of the plastics, to the elegant use of chrome and brushed-aluminum-look ‘matte chrome’, to the beautifully crafted seat stitching, the Eos is firmly in the luxury-car category.

On Lux and Executive trim levels, genuine Burled Walnut, or the more technical aluminum Black Peak, add luxury and style to the fascia and door panels. It’s accompanied by rich, supple leather seating surfaces in a choice of Cornsilk Beige, Atlantic Blue, Titan Black or Red. And all Eos models are equipped wîth a leather-wrapped multifunction §teering wheel and shift knob. From the sporty, side-bolstered front seats wîth standard 12-way power adjustment for the driver (eight-way for the front passenger), to the supportive individual rear seats, the Eos is exceptionally comfortable and accommodating. To make it easy for passengers to climb in the back, the front seats in the Eos are available wîth an electric easy-entry feature. Pressing the rocker switch allows the seats to power forward so passengers can step in, and then return to their original position.

With the top folded, one might think that would be all the air conditioning an Eos driver would need. But standard on all models is a dual-zone Climatronic climate control. The system allows driver and front-seat passenger to adjust their own air temperatures individually and independently. The Climatronic system even takes into account the amount of sunlight coming into the cabin, and makes separate calculations to compensate on both the driver and passenger sides. For entertainment, all Eos models come standard wîth an eight-speaker touchscreen sound system complete wîth crystal-clear HD Radio technology, an in-dash six-CD changer, and a Media Device Interface (MDI) wîth iPod® cable to seamlessly navigate playlists, albums and more, plus Bluetooth® connectivity. Standard equipment wîth the new, top-of-the-line 2012 Eos Executive is a 10-speaker premium sound system from the Danish hi-fi specialist Dynaudio. This 10-channel system delivers up to a true 600 watts RMS without generating unwanted vibrations in the vehicle structure, setting a new standard in this class.

Folding Hardtop

To see the Eos’s electro-hydraulically-operated five-piece steel and glass roof in action is like watching a mechanical ballet. In the 25 seconds it takes for the top to lower, the five elements form a compact ‘sandwich’, stacking neatly and elegantly on top of each other so as to take up minimal space inside the trunk. The mechanism itself is activated from the front seat by a press-and-hold lever beneath the center armrest. Thanks to the way the mechanism operates, the roof can be opened or closed in most garages. This is how the roof lowering process works: Once the switch is pressed, the sunroof section slides backwards and the side windows are lowered. Almost simultaneously, the entire rear section of the roof, from the C-pillar up to the ‘imaginary’ B-pillar is lifted upwards. The sunroof then slides under the rear area of the roof forming a ‘sandwich’. Now the hydraulic control system folds the entire roof cover deck lid, along wîth the lid of the trunk, backwards. Then the lateral roof spars of the windshield frame slide back as well. The sunroof and the rear part of the roof are completely lowered into the rear of the car, while the roof spars slide into separate cavities (covered by lids) near the rear side window.

In total, the Eos’s roof is made up of 470 components, including an eight-cylinder electro-hydraulic pump located under the luggage compartment cover behind the spare wheel. A unique feature of the folding roof is its sliding glass sunroof that’s integrated into the car’s metal roof. At 44 inches wide and 22 inches deep, it is far larger than a traditional sunroof. At the touch of a button it can either be tilted, partly, or fully opened. There’s also an integrated, manual sliding sunshade to reduce sunlight glare. A key design element of the roof is that the section behind the sunroof is made of matching tinted glass, giving the visual impression that the Eos’s entire roof is made from glass. To reduce wind-buffeting when the top is lowered, the Eos comes wîth a removable, foldable wind-blocker that can be mounted behind the rear seats, plus a neat pop-up mesh wind deflector that deploys from the top of the windscreen.

Safety and Security

All 2012 Eos models come wîth an armory of active and passive safety features. One key feature is the Rollover Protection system for the rear seats. In the event of a front, side or rear collision, or if severe lateral tilt or a rollover situation is detected, two spring-loaded aluminum posts deploy from behind the rear-seat head restraints in just 0.25 seconds to help protect rear passengers. For the front seats there’s a driver and passenger front airbag supplemental restraint system, including driver and passenger detection, as well as driver and front passenger head/thorax side airbags. The front three-point safety belts also feature pretensioners.

The suite of standard active safety technology in the Eos includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), and Electronic Differential Lock (EDL). In addition, Eos has Volkswagen’s advanced Intelligent Crash Response System that, in certain types of collision, shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard warning lights. All Volkswagen models are covered by the no-charge Carefree Maintenance® Program. Únder it, all of the scheduled maintenance, as described in the maintenance booklet, is covered for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

As luxury four-door coupes become the new definition of automotive style, the 2012 Volkswagen CC continues to offer this sleek, dramatic look at a highly attainable price. With its sweeping roofline, dramatic body detailing, low-to-the-ground stance, and elegant frameless side windows, the Volkswagen CC offers expressive, head-turning design for the cost of a traditional sedan. For the 2012 model year, buyers have a choice of six unique models starting wîth the extremely well-equipped 2.0T Sport at $28,515, each one offering athletic performance and dynamic handling along wîth no-compromise German engineering.

Price: $27,100 – 39,800.
Invoice: $25,252 – 37,277.

Exterior

The 2012 CC profile highlights the car’s classic coupe lines, wîth its long hood, steeply-raked windshield, long, arcing roofline, and short rear deck. The elegant shape of the roofline is enhanced by the chrome surround of the side windows that sit in frameless doors. The sensation of speed and movement is heightened by the well-defined waistline crease that flows backwards from the front wheel opening, moving just above the door handles, all the way to the taillight lens. Those wheel openings accommodate one of the most visually-striking ranges of standard aluminum-alloy wheels available today. It starts wîth the elegant 10-spoke, 17-inch Phoenix that comes wîth the 2.0T Sport model, moving to the thin-spoke 18-inch Mallory fitted to the 2.0T R Line model, up to the turbine blade-style 18-inch Interlagos.

The front of the CC shows yet another facet of Volkswagen’s brand face; a wide, chrome-ringed grille featuring two well-defined blades and a centrally-mounted VW logo. The trapezoidal headlights contribute to the CC’s stunning appearance, wîth their dipped lower section and tapering ends. Standard on the 4Motion and available on the Lux Limited are Bi-Xenon high-intensity headlights wîth Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) that turn up to 15 degrees around corners for increased visibility. Beneath the sculpted bumper are three large air intakes wîth side openings that incorporate turn signals and fog lights. The lower edge of the nose also features a contoured splitter that optimizes the downforce of the CC at higher speeds.

The distinctive rear styling of the CC features over-sized two-part taillights that produce an unmistakable image day and night. The trunk lid incorporates a subtle rear lip to improve air flow, and beneath it a large VW badge that tilts to form the trunk release lever. A cross-stripe, painted in black wîth a glass-like appearance, runs across the trunk where it meets the rear window—this is a clever styling feature that makes the rear window appear larger, the trunk surface smaller, and the roofline even sleeker.

Suspension

All 2012 CC models are equipped wîth a sport-tuned suspension to satisfy the driver lòòking for lively, involving handling coupled wîth a smooth, comfortable ride for daily driving. Up front, there’s a strut-type suspension wîth coil springs and telescopic dampers, low-mounted lightweight forged-aluminum control arms and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, the CC has a compact multilink coil-sprung suspension wîth upper and lower transverse arms and a longitudinal link on each side to control wheel location. It’s a sophisticated arrangement that helps deliver controllable, dynamic handling wîth a comfortable ride and reduced body roll. The rear suspension components are mounted in a subframe made of high-tensile steel to help reduce weight and increase rigidity. The subframe is also acoustically decoupled from CC’s bodyshell to significantly lessen road noise and vibration.

An electro-mechanical, power-assisted rack-and-pinion §teering system wîth variable speed assistance helps ensure driver confidence. Advantages of the system include its mild self-centering action, its ability to help compensate for different driving hazards such as crosswinds and steep road cambers as it dispenses wîth the usual engine-driven pump. Braking is controlled by the CC’s Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) wîth a special wiping feature that helps keeps the discs dry and clean for quicker response in the wet. The Sport and Lux CC models are fitted wîth 12.3-inch vented discs up front, and solid 11.1-inch rotors for the rear. The VR6 4Motion model moves up to 13.4-inch vented discs for the front and 12-inch solid rotors at the back.

Interior

The CC’s cabin is as stylish and design-led as its bold exterior. To provide the intimate look and feel of a true sports coupe, the rear of the CC features individual bucket-style seats wîth pronounced bolstering for both the cushions and seatbacks for added support. Between the seats are cup holders and small-item stowage for both passengers, hidden neatly and elegantly beneath a rolltop-style cover. A flip-down armrest provides extra comfort. To add to the versatility and flexibility of the CC, the rear seatback is split 60/40 and folds forward to connect the trunk to the cabin to increase load space. There’s also a pass-through behind the armrest to accommodate longer items, like skis. The trunk itself has a capacity of 13.2 cubic feet.

Each CC model features a blend of luxurious materials, rich textures, and intuitive controls. All four sport seats can be covered in V-Tex or supple Nappa leather and are available in both solid and striking two-tone color schemes. The front seats are heatable and come wîth standard 12-way power adjustment, wîth four-way power lumbar and adjustment for height. Electronic seat ventilation is included on the front seats of the VR6 4Motion Executive model. Up front, a leather-wrapped, three-spoke §teering wheel features integrated controls for the CC’s multimedia system. The gauges are surrounded by chrome trim, which extends through the CC Sport and R Line, while the CC Lux and VR6 4Motion models feature either full brushed aluminum or new-for-2012 dark wood.

A variety of entertainment options are available wîth the CC. All 2.0T models come wîth a touchscreen Premium VIII sound system wîth HD radio, eight speakers, a six-disc CD changer, SD memory card reader, AÚX-in for portable audio players, and SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio wîth 3-month trial subscription. Bluetooth® connectivity and Media Device Interface (MDI) wîth an iPod® cable are also standard. For the flagship VR6 4MOTION model, there’s a remarkable Dynaudio® premium sound system, wîth 10-speakers (four tweeters, two midrange, four woofers) powered by a 600-watt amplifier and Digital Sound Processor (DSP) technology. Available on the CC Lux is VW’s RNS 315 navigation system, while the Lux Plus and the VR6 4Motion Executive have Volkswagen’s sophisticated RNS 510 navigation system that features a 6.5-inch color touchscreen, a 30GB hard disk, access to SiriusXM Traffic, and rear-view camera display.

Engines and Transmissions

Two engine options are available to power the 2012 CC: the 2.0-liter TSI® turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder, or the 3.6-liter narrow-angle VR6. Mated wîth either a six-speed manual (Sport and R Line only) or six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic wîth Tiptronic, the award-winning double-overhead-cam, 16-valve 2.0T makes 200-horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. With its precise, smooth-shifting six-speed manual, the 2.0T CC Sport nets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and an impressive 31 mpg on the highway. With the turbo engine delivering its maximum torque from as low as 1800 rpm, the CC Sport wîth manual transmission offers impressive mid-range performance.

Volkswagen’s highly-acclaimed DSG automatic transmission wîth Tiptronic control is optional for the Sport and R Line and standard wîth the CC Lux. The six-speed transversely-mounted DSG unit features two wet clutches wîth hydraulic pressure regulation. One clutch controls the ‘odd’ gears—first, third, fifth, and reverse—while the other operates the even gears. With DSG, the set-up allows the next-higher gear to be engaged, but remain on standby until it is actually selected. In other words, if the CC is being driven in third gear, fourth is selected but not yet activated. As soon as the ideal shift point is reached, the clutch on the third-gear side opens, the other clutch closes and fourth gear engages under accurate electronic supervision. Since the opening and closing actions of the two clutches overlap, a smooth gearshift results and the entire shift process is completed in less than four-hundredths of a second.

In addition to its fully automatic shift mode, DSG has a Tiptronic function to permit manual gear selection. Mated to the DSG transmission, the 2.0T achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The compact, yet powerful V6 engine, which is standard wîth the VR6 4Motion Executive model, has four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, and direct fuel injection. The engine’s compact size is partly due to its cylinder banks being angled in a narrow 10.6-degree ‘V’. Producing 280 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, the 3.6-liter VR6 offers refined, responsive performance. Equipped wîth its standard six-speed automatic wîth Tiptronic and paddle shifters, 0-to-60 mph acceleration is covered in less than seven seconds while achieving EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

Safety and Security

Supporting every element of the CC’s striking design is an impressive collection of active and passive safety features—features that earned the 2.0T CC the coveted Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award for 2011. The annual award recognizes those vehicles that perform best in protecting passengers in the Institute’s front, side and rear crash test evaluations, and the newly-required roof-strength test evaluations. Safety and security in the CC starts wîth a strong, rigid, laser-seam-welded bodyshell and crash-optimized, energy-absorbing front end. For those inside, there’s the protection of a suite of airbags that includes front and side thorax airbags from the driver and front seat passenger, and Side Curtain Protection® head airbags for those in both the front and rear seats. Three-point safety belts have belt-force limiters for all four seats, wîth tensioners for those up front.

A number of aids and enhancements work seamlessly wîth the CC’s drivetrain and suspension to help get the car and its occupants to their destination safely. They include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and Engine Braking Assist (EBA). Every CC also includes the advanced Volkswagen Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard warning lights if the car is involved in certain types of collision. And for real peace of mind, the CC, like every Volkswagen, is covered under the no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. All scheduled maintenance is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Carrying the heart of sports car, the spirit of a large SÚV, and a distinguishably modern look and feel inside and out, Volkswagen’s 2011 Tiguan drives the compact SÚV category further. Starting at $23,485, and available in three fully-stocked trim levels wîth a number of additional upgrades, the Tiguan takes usable features from a sport utility vehicle and balances them wîth the everyday accessibility from a compact hatchback.

Price: $23,485 – 37,050.
Invoice: $22,545 – 35,565.

Exterior

On the outside, the 2011 Tiguan is every bit a Volkswagen, wîth a front end that takes cues from Tiguan’s bigger sibling, the Touareg, yet is able to stand out on its own. Halogen headlamps wîth crystalline lenses come standard on the S and SE models, and are upgraded to Bi-Xenon™ High Intensity Gas-discharged (HID) units on the SEL model, complete wîth an Adaptive Frontlighting System to best illuminate the road ahead. The SE and SEL trim levels also add halogen fog lamps to the corners of the Tiguan’s body-color front fascia, just above blacked-out lower trim.

The darkened portion continues along the wheel arches and the bottom of the doors, giving a more agile, hit the road stance. All models lack the clutter of side moldings, while distinctive chrome window trim and silver, rack-ready roof rails come standard on the SE and SEL. The 2011 Tiguan is now available in a bold new Night Blue color, replacing Sapphire Blue. The Tiguan’s look is finalized wîth an integrated spoiler up top, jeweled tail lamps midway down, integrated running and reverse lights in the blacked out lower bumper, and a pair of chrome exhaust tips. A trailer hitch package can also be added as an option wîth all 2011 Tiguan models.

Engine and Transmission

Únder the 2011 Tiguan’s hood is Volkswagen’s proven 2.0-liter, turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder gasoline engine. With electronic TSI® direct fuel injection, four valves per cylinder, dual overhead camshafts, variable timing, and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters, the 2.0T engine is undoubtedly advanced. With its extensive repertoire, the sporty power plant has what it takes to let the Tiguan carve through back roads, handle towing duties (up to 2,200 lbs.) on the highway, and yet still go easy on using fuel – all the while developing 200 horsepower at 5,100 rpm, and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm.

With the six speed manual transmission (S model only), the Tiguan can return EPA estimates of 19 mpg in the city, and 26 mpg along the highway. With the six speed automatic transmission that includes Volkswagen’s Tiptronic®, mode as well as a Dynamic Shift Program (DSP), the 2011 Tiguan is capable of an EPA estimated 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway (FWD model). The automatic gearbox is an option wîth the S, and standard on the SE and SEL: Tiptronic® mode grants the driver full control over every gear change, simply by tapping the shifter up or down. The DSP setting enables the transmission to adapt to the driver’s preferred driving style, for a more intuitive experience.

Interior

The Tiguan’s versatile tendencies continue to the interior, starting wîth seating for five that is covered in soft yet durable cloth, or V-Tex leatherette seating in Charcoal and Sandstone on the SE, or leather seating surfaces standard on the SEL. Úp front, fully adjustable driver and passenger seats (power 12-way on SEL for driver) keep occupants comfortable, while the 60/40 split rear seats make room for up to 56 cubic feet of ready-to-go storage space. The SE wîth Sunroof & Navigation comes equipped wîth a panoramic power sunroof along wîth a new RNS 315 touch-screen navigation system and 18-inch alloy wheels. A revised §teering wheel sits before large and easy to read chrome-trimmed gauges, and a leather-wrapped wheel wîth multifunction controls is standard on SE and SEL. Heating and cooling controls are always within reach, and can activate either the standard single zone Climatic system wîth pollen filter, or the Climatronic® automated dual-zone system (SEL only). The SEL also features keyless access for locking & unlocking doors and a push button start.

For entertainment, the Tiguan aims to please everyone who is along for the ride and comes wîth a free three-month trial of Sirius® Satellite Radio. The standard stereo system (S trim) includes an in-dash, RCD 310 single disk CD player wîth MP3 readability, an auxiliary input for connecting separate devices, and eight speakers. The SE and SEL models step up to a premium touch screen system and an SD card slot – the SEL comes wîth an RNS 315 Navigation system. Bluetooth® mobile phone connectivity is also standard on all models, which can be outfitted wîth a special Media Device Interface and iPod® cable (standard in SE/SEL) to control ÚSB-based devices and drives.

The SEL wîth Premium Navigation includes a Dynaudio Premium Sound System (4MOTION® only), complete wîth eight upgraded speakers, a 300 Watt amplifier, and Digital Sound Processor technology. Also included in this trim level is Volkswagen’s premium RNS 510 Navigation System: an ultimate entertainment center, stocked wîth a 6.5′ high resolution touchscreen display (which works wîth the available rearview camera), an integrated 30GB hard drive (10GB for navigation, 20GB for audio), WMA / MP3 audio CD playback, DVD video playback when the vehicle is at a complete stop, an SD memory card slot and an auxiliary input connection.

Chassis and Suspension

The 2011 Tiguan is nimble yet composed during most any driving situation, thanks to its compact size and, more important, its German-tuned suspension. The electromechanical power §teering makes turning even easier for the driver wîth consistent feedback at any speed, and active return to keep the Tiguan heading straight on down the road. MacPherson struts and a double wishbone setup at the front are paired wîth an independent four-link setup out back, which let the Tiguan power on through the corners, and remain stable along smooth roads and bumpy trails alike. Disc brakes sit at all four corners (312 x 25 mm vented front units, and 286 x 12 mm solid rear units) and are managed by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for 16-inch San Francisco alloy wheels on the S, 17-inch New Orleans alloy wheels for the SE and 18-inch New York alloy wheels for the SEL.

For even greater driving stability and control, virtually no matter the weather or road conditions, Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system is the perfect companion, monitoring road conditions and driver inputs to instantly adjust how much power is delivered to each of the four wheels. The result is even greater traction, performance, and peace of mind. Also for added convenience, all Tiguan trims will feature the Auto Hold system which prevents rolling or creeping at a stop light or during other situations.

Safety

The 2011 Tiguan carries over 40 active and passive safety features, which are part of Volkswagen’s standard Prevent and Preserve Safety System, to keep the driver and passengers safe. Eight airbags, including front, side thorax, and Side Curtain Protection® for the driver and front passenger, as well as side curtain units for the rear outboard passengers, all come standard. Each of the five seating positions has a three-point safety belt, wîth a pre-tensioner and height adjustment for the driver, front passenger, and rear outboard passengers. For the Tiguan’s younger passengers, Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) make it easy to add a child car seat.

The following safety programs and management systems are also included on the Tiguan: Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Engine Braking Control (EBC), Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution, and Volkswagen’s Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC®). The choice to include ESC standard on every 2011 Volkswagen comes ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) mandate that by the 2012 model year, all vehicles produced will need to include some form of ESC. According to NHTSA, having ESC in a vehicle results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars. Volkswagen’s ESC compares the driver’s intended course wîth the vehicle’s actual direction. If a discrepancy is detected, ESC automatically brakes individual wheels and/or reduces engine power to help maintain directional control.

New for the 2011 model year, all Routans are powered by a new 3.6L engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which provides 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 Routan is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. Function follows form in the 2011 Routan with EPA fuel economy numbers of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the 3.6L. The Routan is offered in seven trim levels with pricing starting under $28,000, making it standout in the segment a true driver’s minivan.

Price: $25,900 – 42,400.
Invoice: $24,454 – 39,475.

Introduction

Somewhere a hippie is weeping. Elsewhere a camping enthusiast is wondering where he’ll be sleeping next. For decades, Volkswagen vans have been the go-to vehicles for these two groups — not to mention surfers and High Times subscribers. So while the 2011 Volkswagen Routan is indeed a van with a VW in its grille, the fact that it’s a mainstream minivan intended for families (and thus substantially more people) is sure to leave a few Deadheads crying into their pints of Cherry Garcia. They might find some solace in the fact that the Routan is really a Volkswagen in name only. Behind its unique front fascia and underneath its slightly higher-quality interior is a Dodge Grand Caravan. You thought it looked familiar, didn’t you? This heritage brings with it a number of advantages and disadvantages.

To kick things off in a positive way, the 2011 VW Routan inherits the Dodge’s (and Chrysler Town & Country’s) new 3.6-liter V6 that produces more power and gets better fuel economy than both Chrysler-sourced V6s found in the Routan last year. Beyond this, the Routan continues to provide the sort of interior layout and space expected by American minivan customers, while also offering family-friendly features like power sliding doors, a DVD entertainment system, heated rear seats and an iPod interface. A new integrated Garmin-sourced navigation system is now available for those who want route guidance for less money than the premium navigation system with its real-time traffic and other advanced features.

However, all of that also applies to the Grand Caravan and the Town & Country. Last year, we would’ve told you that the Routan stood out with better driving dynamics and a substantially nicer cabin. But for 2011, the Chrysler vans have closed the gap considerably (if not completely). Plus, the Chryslers still include Stow ‘n Go seats and a few other features not available in the VW. And from a long-term ownership standpoint, you have to wonder how vested VW is in the Routan or what the service experience of a Chrysler vehicle at a VW dealership might be. As such, it’s hard to think of a significant reason why someone would opt for a 2011 Volkswagen Routan rather than one of its American siblings. But it’s also important to note that the Chrysler minivans are far from class leaders. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna would be our picks and we highly suggest looking at those models first. The new Nissan Quest is also worth considering, as its unique interior layout and styling might be appealing to those looking for something different than the typical minivan. They certainly won’t be getting it from the 2011 VW Routan.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

Distinctions continue along the Routan’s exterior, with aggressively angled headlights containing quad halogen lamps (High Intensity Gas-discharged (HID) units on the SEL Premium), complimenting a chrome trimmed grille. The SEL Premium also includes halogen fog lamps integrated into the lower front bumper. Depending on the trim level, matte black, body-colored, or chrome side mirrors and door handles are used. Splash guards and convenient full running boards with skid-resistant surfaces can also be ordered. New for 2011, are stowable roof racks added to SE and SEL models, allowing quick and easy transformation. The Routan finishes with a spoiler and integrated third brake light sitting atop the rear hatch, uniquely styled tail lamps, and an extra low bumper with step plate to make loading and removal of items that much easier.

The 2011 Volkswagen Routan is a minivan available in S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium trim levels. The base S comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, power rear vent windows, cruise control, a tilt-only steering wheel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, rear air-conditioning controls, second-row captain’s chairs, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.

The SE gains 17-inch alloy wheels, a roof rack, upgraded exterior trim, power sliding doors, power-adjustable pedals, an eight-way power driver seat with lumbar adjustment, heated front seats, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, second- and third-row sunshades, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an overhead storage console, a trip computer, Bluetooth and a six-CD changer. When equipped with the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) package, the Routan SE gains a power tailgate, a rearview camera, a Chrysler-sourced touchscreen audio interface, a single-CD player (in place of the six-disc), digital music storage, satellite radio and video screens for the second and third rows. A Garmin navigation system can be integrated into the touchscreen audio interface included with the RSE package.

The SEL adds to the SE’s equipment automatic headlamps, a sunroof, a remote ignition, a rearview camera, automatic three-zone climate control, leather upholstery, heated second-row seats, a power-folding third-row seat, the touchscreen audio interface, a Chrysler-sourced navigation system, real-time traffic, voice controls, digital music storage, satellite radio and an iPod interface. The rear-seat DVD entertainment features are optional on the SEL. The SEL Premium gets xenon headlamps, foglamps, keyless ignition/entry, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, additional chrome exterior trim, driver memory functions, an eight-way power passenger seat, interior wood trim, an advanced trip computer and a nine-speaker sound system.

Interior

To accommodate the needs of today’s families, the Routan features standard 12V power outlets and an available 115V AC outlet for powering up phones, MP3 players, and game consoles. For 2011, all-new Sierra Stone beige interior color is available in Leatherette or Leather seating surfaces. New perforated front row seating with pillow top armrests and second row captain’s chairs offer an increased level of luxury and comfort. The convenience of a traditional minivan is here with up to 144 cubic feet of space available with the second row removed, and the third row stowed. All 2011 Routan models include an all new leather-wrapped steering wheel with multi-function controls, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and a full assortment of gauges to keep the driver in the know. Underfoot is a high-density carpet, complete with matching floor mats, which add to the overall interior appeal.

Additional intelligent storage solutions can be found with dual glove boxes, a floor console with cup holders, an available highline console with a large storage compartment, available ceiling storage, door sill and rear quarter storage bins, various cargo nets, and a variety of coat and bag and purse hooks throughout. Airline style LED reading lights are ready in all three seating rows, while sunshades keep unwanted light from shining through the power windows on the SE, SEL and SEL Premium models, in addition to standard privacy glass. For extra sunshine and fresh air, the SEL and SEL Premium add a power sunroof.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 VW Routan is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. In Edmunds testing of the mechanically identical Dodge Grand Caravan, this powertrain/minivan combo went from zero to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, which is about a half-second slower than the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

Safety

The 2011 Volkswagen Routan comes standard with traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes and brake assist, front side airbags, a driver knee airbag and side curtain airbags. A rearview camera is available. The Routan has not been rated using the government’s new, more strenuous 2011 crash-testing procedures. However, its 2010 ratings (which aren’t comparable to 2011 tests) were a perfect five stars in front and side crashes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Routan the highest possible rating of “Good” in the frontal-offset and side crash tests.

This four-seater features a revolutionary three-panel roof that transforms a hardtop coupe roof with an integrated sunroof to an open convertible. Volkswagen will offer the Eos with two engines: an award- winning 2.0 liter turbo, 200 horsepower, four cylinder starting at $27,990 and a 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower version of Volkswagen’s narrow angle V6 starting at $36,850.

In addition to the innovative CSC (coupe-sunroof-convertible) roof, the Eos includes high-quality standard features such as Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), safety-optimized front headrests, front airbags and specially developed front side head-thorax airbags; 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch standard on the V6 model), air conditioning system, fog lights, panoramic sunroof, power windows, and cruise control.

MSRP: $31,615-35,200
Invoice: $29,435-32,835

The dimensions of the Eos enhance the vehicle’s dynamics. Together with its length and height, the vehicle’s width lends the Eos a particularly powerful appearance and contributes to the car’s extraordinarily agile and safe handling characteristics. Its leading-edge roof engineering includes multi-folding components with fully automatic operation. The result is pure driving enjoyment regardless of whether the roof is up or down.

The Eos is available with an even more impressive lineup of options, including a double clutch (DSG™) 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®, Steering wheel, shift knob and brake handle each wrapped in leather, automatic headlights, dual-zone Climatronic™ climate control, 12- way power driver seat, heated front seats and washer nozzles, windblocker, center armrest and trip computer, for $31,065.

A further upgrade to the 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower V6 engine with added wood trim, all-season tires, multi- function §teering wheel, HomeLink®, rain sensing wipers and satellite radio is available at $36,850. Additional options include a Dynaudio premium sound system with ten-channel amplifier, ten loudspeakers and 600-watt output power, bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic and static cornering lights, DVD navigation system, park distance control and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Like all new Volkswagen models, the Eos comes with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage, and new vehicle warranties including:

* Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty.

* Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after the initial 12 months/12,000 miles.

* 12-year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation.

The 2009 Volkswagen Touareg 2 makes news by offering a new diesel engine as well as a new high-end trim package. This five-passenger 4-door wagon comes with all-wheel drive. The 3.6-liter V6 model has 280 hp, the 4.2-liter V8 model has 350. New for 2009 is the TDI, which has a 221-hp 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This will replace the previously available V10 turbodiesel. All Touareg 2s have a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Their AWD system is designed for off-roading and includes low-range gearing and a locking center differential; a locking rear differential is optional. Maximum towing capacity is 7716 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Standard features include a power liftgate, power driver seat, and front- and rear-obstacle detection.

Leather upholstery is optional on the V6 and TDI and standard on V8. Options include keyless entry and starting, navigation system and rearview camera. 19-inch wheels are standard on V8 models. New for mid-2009 is the Lux Limited, which includes specific interior trim, 20-inch wheels, two-tone leather upholstery, and 12-way power front seats. Lux Limited is available with V6 and V8 engines. Touareg 2 was developed with Porsche, which offers its own version as the Cayenne. Touareg 2 also lends its basic design to the Audi Q7 premium large SUV.

The 2010 Volkswagen Touareg 2 lineup undergoes a few changes. This 5-passenger wagon has standard all-wheel drive with low-range gearing for off-road use. It comes in two models, the VR6 and diesel-powered TDI. The available V8 engine has been discontinued. The VR6 has a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. The TDI has a 225-horsepower 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6.

All use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 7,716 pounds. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Standard on all models are front- and rear-obstacle detection, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a 12-way power driver seat. An optional Luxury Package for both models includes leather upholstery, a 12-way power passenger seat, a heated steering wheel, wood interior trim, and 19-inch wheels.

A Lux Limited Package includes additional specific trim and 20-inch wheels. A Technology Package includes a navigation system, a rearview camera, keyless access and engine start, and steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights. A dual-screen DVD entertainment system is optional. An adjustable air suspension is optional on the TDI.