The
Volkswagen Eos convertible coupe arrives eighteen months after the unveiling of the manufacturer’s Concept C study at the Geneva Automobile Salon. The Eos represents a world first: it is a four-seater car boasting a CSC five-section roof. It therefore combines three separate design concepts into one vehicle – a coupe, a sliding roof and a convertible roof.
When the CSC roof is closed, it forms an arc from front to rear, endowing the Eos with an elegant, refined coupe shape. The swoop of the arc is elongated, meeting muscular haunches and exuding quality and style. With the roof open, it is clear to see that this is a uniquely designed convertible coupe – its body shape resembles no other model in existence. The windscreen frame is very short and the rear end is squat, bestowing the Eos with sensuous lines and proportions. Its overall shape is, in fact, rather reminiscent of a classic convertible.
The Eos is 1.44 metres high, 4.41 metres long and 1.79 metres wide. The relationship between these dimensions provides the Eos with a wide, powerful appearance. The track width stands at over 1.55 metres – not only enhancing the Eos’ looks, but also contributing to the impressive agility and dextrous handling of this convertible coupe. The Eos provides pure driving pleasure, whether the CSC roof is open or closed.
Engineering
Volkswagen is well known for its emphasis on technical synergies across its models, and the Eos is no exception to this rule. As expected, there is a wide range of engines on offer. The four petrol options are 155 bhp, 150 bhp, 200 bhp and 250 bhp, and these are complemented by a 140 bhp TDI diesel option with particulate filtering as standard. All but the 250 bhp version are fitted with 4-cylinder direct injection engines; the top-of-the-range model boasts six cylinders.
Inside the Eos
To complement the unique exterior styling, the Eos also features a brand new interior design. Although many of the functional components are similar to those found in other
Volkswagen models, there are several elements unique to the Eos, including the door and side trim, the rear seat system and the cockpit. The seating system is a
Volkswagen first, featuring electronically controlled “easy entry” seats which remember the driver’s and front passenger’s seat positions. Once any rear passengers have entered of left the vehicle, the seats automatically return to these stored positions at the press of a button.
With the roof open, the Eos offers 205 litres of storage space, rising to a respectable 380 litres when closed. Refinements to the storage system include a power latch which closes the boot the final few millimetres and an aperture built into the rear seating structure for easy loading.
The Eos launched on the European market in spring 2006, with other global markets expected to follow later in the year.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Francis Schwaller for www.sport-cars.org
April 1, 2008, 11:53 am
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