FOLLOWING its debut at the Paris Motor Show, German car maker Volkswagen has announced a number of revisions to its flagship Phaeton luxury saloon.
Inside, new touchscreen satellite navigation and climate control systems feature as standard as part of a redesigned centre console, alongside a refreshed instrument cluster and multifunction display.
Side Scan blind-spot monitor is now available as an option on the Phaeton for the first time, building on the car’s already extensive list of safety equipment This technology, currently available on the Touareg, monitors the area next to the vehicle and acts as a lane changing aid with an audible alert and a small warning lamp in the wing mirrors to warn of the danger of collision.
Other options new to the Phaeton include a rear-view camera and a powerful 1,000-watt Dynaudio audio system. Subtle design tweaks have also been made to the exterior, including a revised front grille featuring a three-dimensional Volkswagen roundel. A range of new metallic paint finishes and three new alloy wheels, in 17-, 18- and 19-inch designs, have also been added.
The Phaeton is available with a 3.0-litre V6 TDI 240 horsepower diesel engine with particulate filter or 6.0-litre W12 450 horsepower petrol engine. All models have standard 4Motion four-wheel drive and are available with a long wheelbase, giving 12 cm additional rear legroom. The 3.0-litre V6 TDI is now offered with a standard wheelbase.
The revised Phaeton is available to order now, with new cars arriving in the UK in January 2009. Prices will start at £44,235 for the 3.0-litre TDI variant.
