2007 Volkswagen Eos Review

As in other VW models, the combination of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and the slick six-speed manual transmission is a delight to drive. The engine produces plenty of torque, making it a good car for gentle cruising or more aggressive driving.

In the past, we haven't cared too much for the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired up with an automatic transmission. Until we test this combination we can't be sure, but we're inclined to recommend getting the V6 if you want the automatic. Volkswagen's V6 with automatic has been a delightful combination on other models and we expect that will be the case with the Eos.

All Eos models include an electronic stabilization program (ESP), which we found to be completely unobtrusive, perhaps because we never drove the car past its limit of adhesion. We had the chance to drive a short distance on a dirt road at a slow speed and there was no drama from the car nor any squeaks or rattles.

Because of the added weight and a less rigid body the car does not handle as well as the GTI. Hardly any surprise, but again it's not really an issue as the GTI is so good it is almost in class by itself, making it an unfair comparison.

The electro-mechanical steering is fine; in fact we felt it delivered a slightly better feel than in the GTI. Brakes are also more than adequate. The majority of owners will find the Eos is acceptable for all driving except at high speed on winding roads.

With the top up there is virtually no indication that you're in anything other than a coupe. There is little wind noise and the body feels tight. With the top down there is some cowl shake on rough roads. It's far less than in older convertibles, which indicates VW has done an excellent job of creating a stiff new frame under the svelte body.

The Eos includes a couple of extras to help reduce wind buffeting with the top down. These include a deflector that can be raised up along the top edge of the windshield that is mostly to prevent buffeting with the sunroof open. The other is a wire mesh contraption that goes over the rear seats when there are no passengers to lessen air turbulence behind the front seats. We found it helped but wonder whether most people will bother to install it unless they intend to drive some distance with the top down.

We did not have the chance to try an Eos with the Sports Package. In some ways it almost seems unnecessary for this car as it handles just fine in standard trim. If you want a really good handling car the GTI is a much better deal and we doubt the Eos could never match it due to the inherently less rigid body structure and added weight.