Long wheelbase Volkswagen Phaeton

[altezza]

15 April 2004

EVEN MORE LUXURY AS NEW LONG WHEELBASE PHAETON IS LAUNCHED

Volkswagen’s luxury saloon, the Phaeton, now offers even more comfort and opulence for its passengers with the launch of long wheelbase versions. The new models – which have an extra 120 mm of wheelbase, translating directly into rear legroom – are on sale now, and complement the existing standard wheelbase Phaetons.

The long wheelbase (LWB) models are available with three of the four sophisticated engines available to standard wheelbase (SWB) customers. These are the 4.2-litre V8 335 PS and 6.0-litre W12 420 PS petrol units and the award-winning 5.0-litre V10 TDI 313 PS diesel. The 3.2-litre V6 241 PS power plant is offered only in SWB form.

All LWB models come with extra equipment as standard over their SWB counterparts. This includes a rear console for operation of the highly advanced, draught-free 4Zone electronic climate control system; rear side window sunblinds; and an electrically-operated sunroof and rear screen sunblind.

This comes on top of the already comprehensive equipment that is fitted to every Phaeton, with highlights including CDC (Continuous Damping Control) air suspension; ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme); an ‘Infotainment’ system with 7" colour screen; and powerful Xenon headlights.

Prices for the Phaeton range start at £42,905 RRP on the road for the 3.2-litre V6, while the new LWB range begins at £54,265 RRP on the road for the 4.2-litre V8.

All are available as either four- or five-seat models.

The Phaeton was launched in the UK last summer, joining the Touareg 4x4 as part of Volkswagen’s representation in the luxury class. The vehicle was designed to set benchmark standards in its sector, surpassing its key competitors in several areas. With the addition of the new long wheelbase versions, along with the recently launched 4.2-litre V8 and 5.0-litre V10 TDI engines, it has further asserted its status as one of the world’s most advanced and capable large luxury saloons.

[PATo355]

Why a bigger one while the current one is not selling good ? I think ppl is not going to pay A8 price for a VW , they should have put the Audi badge on it , as Clarkson said its the most perfect big saloon in the world

[nthfinity]

sleek looks of the car; i think the larger version is a definate bonus, as for a car like that, rear legroom is a must in the market just below RR, and Maybach for 4 door saloons.

id still choose an audi tho

[RC45]

When you have that much money to spend - why not get the "overpriced" VW - just because you can

[PATo355]

Yes but its too ... its a VW dont know ... at that pricetag you want a luxury brand not a grown up PPLS CAR , at least that is showed by the sales ... sad cuz its a superb car

[normy360]

I think the Phaeton is a gorgeous car. Interior appointments and build quality are better than BMW (for sure) and Mercedes (arguably) and at least on par with Audi. It is targeted at the low-key sophisticated buyer who cares more about quality than prestige. Unfortunately most people looking at this price bracket are looking for prestige AND quality. VW just does not have the cachet those other brands have. I don't know if the long wheel base version will improve sales much. I think in a few years' time when they have depreciated significantly, the Phaeton will be an excellent value.