Volkswagen is abandoning its bid to make the Phaeton a rival for the 7-series and S-class in Europe — and it will tailor the next generation of the car to the US and China instead. The Phaeton, which has sold in tiny numbers since its launch in 2002, has just been facelifted and given some of the internet connectivity originally seen on the latest Audi A8, another of its rivals. “There’s no doubt that the Phaeton absolutely has to go back to the US,” said our insider. “This is being reflected in the next version. It will look much more like a car for America.” That’s likely to mean a slight increase in size and far more ostentatious styling than the current, ultra-conservative look. VW is considering a number of options for the car’s underpinnings. The most likely source is said to be the extended version of the Audi A6 that’s sold in China. But our insider refused to rule out the possibility of using the A8’s aluminium platform. “Everything is open to us,” he said. The focus on markets outside of Europe is likely to ensure that all three of the current Phaeton’s petrol motors — V6, V8 and W12 — survive into the next incarnation. There will also be a hybrid version, which is likely to use a version of the petrol-based powertrain from the Touareg hybrid.
The parking brake is now activated by pushbutton. The engine (V6 versions) automatically shuts off at traffic lights and restarts as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal (Stop-Start system). As an option, the tailgate can be opened and closed by a RF remote control unit integrated in the car key. The largest panoramic sunroof of all SUVs provides for light even on overcast days. The innovative "Area View" utilises four cameras to detect the Volkswagen Touareg's surroundings and this enhances safety. Also offering protection are up to nine airbags. Lane Assist ensures that the vehicle does not stray from the right path; meanwhile, Side Assist warns of vehicles approaching from the rear when changing lanes. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with integrated Front Assist can brake to a stop in an emergency and tension the seatbelts as a precautionary measure. Bi-Xenon headlights with Dynamic Light Assist perceive oncoming traffic and adjust the light beam to eliminate unwanted glare, and adaptive roll compensation ensures that the Volkswagen Touareg sits solidly on the street. For the first time, there will be special features on the new Touareg under the new "Exclusive" badge from Volkswagen Individual. Options that can be ordered include 19-inch alloy wheels ("Girona" type), fine wood inserts ("Olive Ash") and a leather interior ("Nappa") in the two-colour combinations "Dark Burgundy / Titan Black" or "Pepper Beige / Titan Black". More or less 500,000 car drivers chose to buy the first generation of the SUV. It is a luxury sport utility vehicle that offers a high level of comfort, sporty driving properties, avant-garde styling, excellent quality and unlimited expedition capabilities - essentially the best of the passenger car and off-road worlds unified in one concept. This is now being followed up by the new VW Touareg - a high-end and versatile all-round vehicle that brings these two worlds together even more perfectly.
After Ford's acquisition of Volvo in the late 90s, most Volvo models at the turn of the millennium had its platform shared by other vehicles from the American manufacturer and/or its sister brands. Prior to this, most vehicles from the Swedish brand are engineered independently with the exception of the S40/V40 compact whose underpinnings share with the Mitsubishi Carisma. With the first generation S80 being the first model utilizing the P2 platform (it was developed prior to the purchase of Ford) with a derivative used by Ford in certain models that is utilized until now. Nearly 10 years ago, the second generation S80 was introduced to the Philippine market. Initially, three models were made available but later on it was trimmed to one model available. Nowadays, what used to be priced at the three to four million peso range can now be had at P1,200,000. Unlike the first generation model which a handful of units are available in the used car market, this one rarely pops up the classified block.
Since this one is a low volume seller among luxury brands coupled with a limited support among European brands, maintaining one isn't for everyone. Best head to Volvo's certified selection for peace of mind and while you're at it, be friends with a parts specialist to get support. Not anymore the Volvo that your grandfather used to know with conservative lines, this one is stylish at its best. It had grew longer and taller with its wheelbase more wide than the model it replaced. Inside, it is your typical Swedish fare: simple and stylish yet does not feel outdated. Rear occupants receive sockets for headphones (the users can also choose their music) located at the base of the center console which needs for the users to bend down. Its multi media interface is decent enough but overshadowed by much complex systems afforded by the Germans. Good thing that interior space is roomy enough. From 2007 until 2010, three engine choices are available for the consumer which includes the following: a 200hp 2.5 turbocharged five cylinder, a 238hp 3.2 inline six, and a 4.4 V8 producing 315hp that is developed by Yamaha. An update in 2011 had only one engine option in the form of a 240hp 2.0 turbocharged four cylinder. The turbocharged engines are fast enough but the naturally aspirated ones suit the vehicle well. Our pick is the turbos and skip the V8 since you wouldn't bother with it anyways. Although comfortable to be inside, some noises may be heard at certain times. Handling is fine but definitely the Germans have the advantage on the handling department.
