The Volkswagen Phaeton is one of those cars that was built with the best intentions, but was never welcome to the market with open arms. Sales for this large luxury liner have always been less than stellar, but that apparently hasn’t stopped V-dub from giving it another go.
Previous generations of the Phaeton have been based on the A8 and this one is no different. From the pictures given, it’s clear that this one is packing the 4.2 liter V8 and will also be available with the 6.3 liter W12 engine. European markets will get a six cylinder diesel and six cylinder petrol engine to choose from. We’re left to assume this car will also feature the 7 speed automatic featured in the new A8 as well. Volkswagen’s 4-Motion all wheel drive comes as standard along with all the luxury and technology you’d expect in a car in this segment such as 18-way adjustable seats, 4-zone climate control, lane change assistance, and radar guided cruise control. You can also opt for the long wheelbase variant if you want more space for your international dignitaries…or kids.
Outside, things are…not much different from the last time we saw this car. The front is of course taken from Volkswagen’s current design language which gives the Phaeton a more aggressive look. LEDs in the headlamps aren’t a bad touch either. Every element works well together here and should give a fairly commanding presence if you seen one in your rear view mirror. In profile, subtly-flared wheel arches hint at (some) sportiness and, along with the sleek, crisp lines, give the car a look of being musclar, but not bulky. The rear is…boring, but unoffensive. So, that works out alright.
All in all, this is shaping up to be a nice offering in the segment. But with competition such as the redesigned Audi A8, Mercedes S-class, new BMW 7-series, and even the Hyundai Equus coming to town, the Phaeton is up against some monstrous stiff competition. Frankly, I don’t think it has a Nazi’s chance in hell, but we’ll see what happens. Check out the pics down below.
I'm a 24 year old Georgia boy, born and raised. Currently in college still trying to make up my mind about what I want to go for. Been loving cars and the industry for only about the last 4 years, but it's definitely a strong passion of mine. 
