Volkswagen Phaeton 4.2 V8 LWB Review: The Lap of Luxury

What we like:

Superbly equipped

understated looks and image

high levels of build quality

significantly lower price tag than most competitors

What we dislike:

Ponderous to drive

badge not as prestigious as a Blue Propeller or Three-pointed Star

Volkswagen obviously thinks that local towkays are a fussy lot, so both the normal (3.6 V6) and long wheelbase versions (V8 or W12) of the car will be available here. In long wheelbase form, the Phaeton is a smidgen longer than its Audi A8 L cousin and you'll have all the leg and headroom you'll ever need in the rear of the Volkswagen.

The five-seater version tested here (there's also a four-seater model) has all the creature comforts most rear passengers will need in a luxury car. The rear passengers can also adjust their own settings and preferences for the four-zone electronic climate control system. There are electric sun blinds all round for rear passengers for added privacy. Four-seater models come with two individual electrically adjustable armchairs at the rear for an even more sumptuous rear compartment.

Up front the driver and front passenger will be spoilt by the plush electric seats. They offer plenty of adjustments, have built-in cooling fans and heaters in them and even offer a massage function to relax and calm down the nerves.

The driver is greeted by clear and easy-to-read instruments that illuminate white when the lights are switched on. There's a large LCD screen on the centre console that displays settings for the climate control, in-car entertainment, trip computer and various other functions. Volkswagen is especially proud of the Phaeton's draught-free four-zone electronic climate control system - a first in any car when the Phaeton was first launched in 2003. Gadget freaks will be especially impressed with the button fest and amount of high-tech features in the Phaeton.

One of the biggest drawing points of the Phaeton has to be its exemplary build quality. All the materials used inside feel and look of the best quality. Fit and finishing is immaculate. There's a feeling of solidity and robustness about the Phaeton - the doors close with a reassuring thunk and check out that sophisticated boot closing mechanism - just like many other aspects of the car, it looks and feels so superbly engineered. The Phaeton can also be customised according to the customer's wishes with an almost infinite combination of options or equipment.

With just a ‘modest' VW roundel adorning its radiator grille, the immaculately put together Phaeton definitely doesn't offer the prestige of a luxury barge with a Blue propeller, Four Rings or a Three-pointed star on its bonnet. The Phaeton though, is significantly more affordable than its more prestigious rival while offering more luxuries and toys in a superbly built package.

Credits: Story and Photos by Mark Yeo