At
the Transparent Factory in Dresden Volkswagen produces one of the finest
automobiles in the world: the Volkswagen Phaeton. The limousine's quality and
comfort (four-wheel drive and air suspension as standard) set a unique
benchmark. Volkswagen, the most successful carmaker in Europe and China, has
now made the VW Phaeton even more perfect. The company's new flagship was
unveiled for the first time at Auto China 2010 in Beijing.
Its
contours are defined by the Volkswagen design DNA developed by Walter de Silva,
the group's Italian chief designer. Around the completely new front section in
particular the design team has further refined the model's very own stylistic
aplomb. In the process the timelessly elegant Volkswagen Phaeton has gained a
broader and more powerful appearance. The new model is also characterised by
modifications to its rear section and silhouette.
At
the same time, new technical features have been added. These include Dynamic
Light Assist (camera-based dynamic main beam regulation) and a navigation
system that, if desired, can integrate online data from Google into the map
display. In addition to this, the Volkswagen Phaeton's optional front camera
enables it to 'see' road signs, with speed limit signs visualised on the
instrument panel and centre console's touchscreen. The system will also be able
to recognise and depict 'no overtaking' signs - the first in the world to do
so!
The
VW Phaeton's interior ranks as one of the most elegant, high quality and
comfortable in the entire premium class. The 4-zone air-conditioning system,
for example, that works totally free of any draughts, and the award-winning
ergonomic 18-way seats are unsurpassed. All of the Volkswagen Phaeton
interior's functions are also intuitive to use.
In addition to the version with
three rear seats (5-seater), the limousine can be optionally ordered with two
electrically adjustable individual seats (4-seater). Furthermore a version of
the Volkswagen Phaeton is also available that is twelve centimetres longer.
Meanwhile, the limousine can be almost infinitely personalised with a wide
range of leather, alcantara and wood trim, plus optional equipment such as a
fridge or multimedia systems from Volkswagen Exclusive. This also applies to
the completely redesigned multifunction steering wheel. It can be ordered
either in leather or in a wood/leather combination matching the relevant wood
trim features.
Depending
on wheelbase, the 2011 model VW Phaeton is between 5.06 and 5.18 metres long.
As mentioned above, a completely new front section has been developed for this
flagship of the Volkswagen brand. In keeping with the current Volkswagen design
DNA, its form is dominated by horizontal lines. Unlike all other Volkswagens
created to date on the basis of this new DNA, the Volkswagen Phaeton does not
have a shiny black radiator grille cover, but instead a completely new chrome
element. Along with the likewise restyled headlights, this radiator trim is a
major influence in the new Phaeton's design and underlines its uncompromisingly
independent character. In detail the new grille is more upright, while its
stricter lines and impressive alternation of materials between polished and
matt chrome make it even more striking. The horizontal linking of grille and
headlights follows the Volkswagen design criteria and impressively emphasises
the vehicle's width. As a sign of its class specific to this model the
Volkswagen Phaeton also features three-dimensional moulding of the grille and
bonnet, with precise edges that carry the grille's heightened expression of
quality on into the sculptured contours of the vehicle body. Once again in the
centre of the grille is the classic VW badge, which now - despite integrating
the ACC (automatic distance control) system's radar sensors - has a new-look
surface design.
To
the left and right of the grille are new Bi-Xenon headlamps, which are standard
across the range. Integrated within them are cornering and adaptive lights. Not
just in visual terms, but from a technical perspective too, this is a whole new
generation of headlamps. Firstly, the indicator and adaptive cornering lights
are highly visible and stylistically striking LEDs. Secondly, as with the new
Touareg, the VW Phaeton will also be available with optional Dynamic Light
Assist. Using a camera integrated into the rear-view mirror, this complex
technology 'detects' other road users and regulates illumination of the
carriageway accordingly (see separate section on Dynamic Light Assist).
The
bumper has also been redesigned in keeping with the radiator grille and
headlamps. Here too horizontal lines form the guiding principles of the new
design. Even the fog lamps have been designed as narrow, horizontal LED strips.
Last but not least, the bottom final section of the bumper is now also
colour-coordinated with the car body. Compared to the previous model the new
generation Phaeton thus looks even sportier and more imposing on the road.
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| Volkswage |
Also
modified, the back of the car underlines this impression. The design team
decided here not to change the classic, clear and powerful basic style that
this area has always had, but instead to develop new LED rear light clusters.
Each cluster features dotted lights and an M-shaped LED strip. The result is an
unmistakable, elegant look both in daylight and at night. Also new is the VW
badge - now likewise in 3D format - on the boot lid.
As
at the front, the rear bumper has also been redesigned. It now has a new, three-piece
chrome bar and the section of the bumper trim near the road is now also
colour-coordinated with the car body. The same goes for the bottom section of
the side skirts. Also noticeable in silhouette view are modified side trim
strips, narrower LED indicators in the wing mirrors and new 18-inch
('Experience') alloy wheels.
Powertrain
options in the Phaeton remain unchanged. The lone diesel choice is a 240-hp,
3.0-liter V-6, while the gas-powered camp gets the choice between a 280-hp,
3.6-liter V-6, a 335-hp, 4.2-liter V-8, or a 450-hp, 6.0-liter W-12.
Interestingly, the Phaeton does not see the updated, 500-hp, 6.3-liter W-12
from the new Audi A8. While the updates include no mention of the Phaeton
returning to the U.S., we have heard from several high-placed executives that a
comeback is being considered, likely after the next generation arrives in a few
years.
The
W12 Phaeton’s 18-way memory power front seats are heatable, ventilated and have
a 10-minute massage function and four-way power lumbar support. Rear seats also
are heated. Interior trim on seating, steering wheel and doors includes premium
wood, leather upgrades, and brushed metal accents.
As
with all Volkswagen vehicles, concern for safety is uppermost in Phaeton. As
standard safety equipment, both the V8 and W12 models have eight airbags,
including Volkswagen’s Side Curtain Protection®; a four-wheel Anti- lock
Braking System with emergency brake assist; electronic park assist; an advanced
Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP®); and a tire pressure monitoring system.
source:www.netcarshow.com,www.caranddriver.com
