MPG-o-Matic Volkswagen EOS Review Summary: The VW EOS is a sporty four-seat convertible that competes most closely with the Audi A4 Cabriolet and BMW 3-series convertibles. The EOS slots in beneath the least expensive Mercedes and above the domestic competition.
Under the hood, the 2008 EOS is fitted with a 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder direct injection engine producing 200 horsepower and 207 foot pounds of torque.
While a 250 HP V6 is available, we found the turbo four to be a snarling little beast.
The EPA gas mileage estimates for the 2008 VW EOS are 21 city / 29 highway miles per gallon (MPG) when equipped with the turbocharged four cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission.
We exceeded the highway estimate, achieving 31.3 MPG on the highway, with the top up and the air conditioning cranked, on a day when the temperature reached 100 degrees. In combined testing, the EOS delivered 25.4 MPG
Truth be told, it’s tough to resist the temptations of the topless VeeDub’s turbo.
This is a car that begs to be driven swiftly. The front wheel drive EOS performs like the world class German automobile that it is.
You’ll achieve the best fuel efficiency results with the EOS when you make use of the real-time digital MPG readout (which is optimally located between the speedometer and tachometer). Steering wheel controls allow you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes forward as you cycle between the information center’s displays.
Our test unit was loaded up with the Sport package, the premium audio system, and navigation system with iPod adaptor.
iPod integration is a bit of a mixed bag. While the center console conceals a cradle, avoiding the need for a USB cable, it can be tricky to fit with smaller iPods and the software shows room for improvement. You can choose from six playlists via the navigation system. Track and playlist names are not displayed.
Nevertheless, the premium audio system does a fine job of delivering the music, whether the top is up or down.
The Navigation system’s split screen setup is well thought out, as it displays the next turn instructions in the information center between the speedo and tach.
In a package full of wonderful touches, it’s the convertible hard top that steals the show. Friends, neighbors, and passers by will gape in awe at the Batmobile-esque transformation that occurs when raising or lowering the top. Just don’t attempt it at a stoplight lest you invoke the ire of everyone behind you when the light turns green and you’re sitting there with the top midway.
Our week with the EOS was a happy blur. The car was a hit with everyone that saw it and few had seen one before. The ranks of EOS owners enjoy excellent performance along with solid gas mileage figures … and until the word gets out, an exotic air of exclusivity.
– by Daniel Gray
I took delivery of my EOS “Lux” model a month ago and haven’t stopped admiring it and showing it off. Who needs the VR6 when the red-ripper 2.0T can get the jump on everything wi th four wheels (and many with two only from a dead stop? I concur with all praise in the review and will not waste space restating it. I have one critical observation: internal (cabin) rattling and tapping when the steeltop is deployed. It’s disturbing on normally bumpy roads and pretty much disappears on expressways. I am told it’s caused largely by roof segments and associated linkages flexing and can be eliminated by keeping rubber seals soft and lubed (with a little gem of an ounce or two of mystery oil for $55 USD!). No problemo. My thunder blue runabout runs about well, thanks very much.
Steve in PA
i received my VR6 model at the end of April ’08. i only test drove the 2.0 and it performed very well, but with the VR6 model, i got all the features i wanted and it seemed more cost effective, the only option i did NOT get, and there were only a few available, was the Navigation, i have my Navigon 7110 and it works with both my older Volvo and this vehicle just fine. it drives well, always turns heads and i live in Germany so i take the top down every chance i get. i wish that all of the settings were synchronized, seat position, mirrors side and rear-view. when you change your seat position inevitably the mirrors need to change too. while it may not be the fastest thing on the road it makes up for it in style. also this model has the AutoStick/paddle shifters which i love to use, it makes me feel like some sort of cave man when i get into other vehicles they seem so primitive. are there better cabrios out there? maybe, but you should definitely test drive this one to be sure you are not missing out. i don’t see many of these autos out there, but i don’t mind. the ability to just have the sunroof open and close it for inclement weather is handy.
I took ownership of my EOS “LUX” in August ’08. I find myself finding excuses to drive somewhere. I have gone over this car with a fine tooth comb and have not found one defect. The black dwith light tan interior is a head-turner. Likes? The top of course. Also the sound system. Very good with the top up or down. I love the sound of the car as it eagerly goes on down the highway. Dislikes? Rainy days.
I got my Eos a few weeks ago and have loved every second we have been together. When I start to put the top down everyone around stops to watch. The comfort and style of the car are just perfect for me. It is by far the best car I have ever had! It makes me sad that winter is comming right around, but on the plus side we get to see how the eso gets by in the snow.