• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I give priority to excellent engineering and first rate build quality over a prestige badge.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Few had even heard of it (commonly mistaking it for a Passat) but everyone who travels in it describes it with superlatives.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, because there isn't any comparable vehicle available used at such a low price. It is hand built using top quality materials, shares a platform and numerous components with a Bentley and its refined performance is extraordinary.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Quite possibly another Phaeton though this one gives the impression it will never wear out!

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £26,800

    When did you buy the car?

    January 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    It was a very good deal because the mileage was low, the saving over list massive, the part exchange generous and the condition "as new".

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Quality, refinement, performance, value.

    What was the dealer like?

    Excellent.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very smooth and quiet (the refinement is top quality) but the handling, while secure thanks to the 4WD system, is certainly not sporting. It is clearly designed to cover vast motorway distances with maximum efficiency rather than rapidly traverse winding A and B roads.

    What's it like to park?

    A task that needs to be approached carefully because of the sheer size of the vehicle. The visual and audible sensors are a great help.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Completely effortless performance.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Entertainment system (Dynaudio).