Volkswagen Phaeton (03 on) - Review Review by Dan Harrison on 09 January 2007 Last Updated: 22 June 2011 Volkswagen's first real attempt at a true luxury car is technically brilliant. The Phaeton comes packed with technology, is incredibly refined and there are some great engines available too, including impressively powerful TDI units. It's not the most striking of designs - in fact it is fairly anonymous and guaranteed not to attract attention - ideal if you want to travel incognito. There's masses of passenger space while a long wheelbase version is available for even more room. It's an expensive buy if new, particularly for a Volkswagen, which means it's never been particularly popular in the UK. Depreciation is steep - especially on the entry-level 3.2-litre - which means it's a great used buy and more affordable than you may think. It was given a mild facelift in September 2007 that included subtle exterior tweaks and a more modern cabin design. More changes took place in January 2009 including a new touchscreen satellite navigation and climate control system. 3.5 out of 5 Other Volkswagen reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Owners' Reviews Gallery 4 out of 5 Performance There's a decent choice of engines in the Phaeton and the entry-level model is the 3.2-litre V6 with 240bhp. It's very smooth but with fuel economy of just 23mpg it lags behind the diesels in terms of running costs. A more powerful 4.2-litre V8 is also available which delivers 335bhp and is the same engine that is used in the Touareg. It has a characterful engine note and plenty of low down grunt too, delivering a 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds - although fuel economy is a poor 22mpg. The top petrol is the immense 6.0-litre W12 which boasts 420bhp - although in 2005 this was increased to 450bhp which means it can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds. It's not that quick away from a standstill, but accelerates effortlessly quickly on the motorway. However, average fuel economy is just 19mpg. The 3.0 V6 diesel is one of the most in-demand engines thanks to its strong blend of performance and economy. It was introduced in May 2005 with 225bhp and a 0-62mph time of 8.8 seconds. Economy is good for this size of car at 29mpg and it actually boasts more pulling power than the 4.2-litre petrol. The 5.0 V10 TDI is a breathtaking diesel and offers useful fuel savings over the petrols along with masses of low down grunt. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds (identical to the 4.2-litre petrol) and averages 25mpg. All models come with 4MOTION four wheel drive except the entry-level 3.2-litre V6 which is available with two-wheel drive. View full gallery 3 out of 5 Handling The Phaeton is a little off the pace in terms of handling. It's a large and heavy car, which is evident on country roads. However, it's possible to adjust the suspension and gearbox settings to give a sportier and firmer drive, but it still lacks the enjoyment of the accomplished Audi A8 or Mercedes S-Class. That said, with the suspension in comfort mode, it makes an exemplary cruiser. The ride is outstanding and glides over even the roughest of roads. Despite its size, it's not too much of handful around town - only width restricted streets cause real problems. View full gallery Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Volkswagen Phaeton cars for sale We have 28 models like this for sale. Find Volkswagen Phaeton cars for sale Previous: Equipment Next: Comfort