2012 Volkswagen EOS

The 2012 Volkswagen Eos has a feature that no other car has: an integrated, full sunroof in a retractable hardtop. Volkswagen has also increased engine power, made the automatic, DSG transmission standard, and updated both interior and exterior styling features.

The exterior appearance of the Eos is both sleek and a little sporty looking. The nose is reminiscent of other Volkswagen models, giving it a sense of familiarity, though the overall view leans more toward a luxury vehicle. The rear bumper now includes a diffuser and long-lasting LED taillights that employ fiber optic technology. Daytime running lights and fog lights are standard. Two models come with halogen headlights,

while the top Executive model offers bi-xenon headlights. Each model also has heated side mirrors with turn signal displays.

Then there's the retractable hard top. The Eos performs as both a coupe and a convertible, switching between the two with the push of a button. In coupe mode, the panoramic, automatic sunroof tilts or slides open for times when you only want a little bit of sky, and it also serves as a moonroof. When you're ready for full exposure, the top automatically retracts into the trunk, and your top-down cruising experience is at hand in a mere 25 seconds. The main drawback of the feature is that it limits rear-seat and trunk space.

The 2012 Eos now sports a standard 2.0-liter, 16-valve, turbocharged, 200-horsepower engine with 207 lbs/ft of torque. Also standard on every model is the automatic, six-speed, Direct-Shift Gearbox transmission that employs dual-clutch technology. The dual-clutch operation shifts between gears quickly, and the estimated acceleration time from 0-60 mph is a reported 7.3 seconds. The 4-cylinder, front-wheel drive Eos has independent suspension, uses direct fuel injection, and gets an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Standard safety features include stability and traction control, integrated rollover protection, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, a front end that's impact absorbent, and dual front- and side-impact airbags. There's also an intelligent-response system that turns off power to the fuel pump in the event of a crash.

Inside, the 2012 Eos offers standard comfort features such as dual-zone climate control, heated front seats with a power driver's seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. An anti-theft alarm system and an automatic door-locking system that engages above 8 mph are also standard. Bluetooth hands-free calling and media connections for iPod and other audio players come with each model.

The Eos Komfort model has leatherette seats, Titan Silver interior trim, and a new touchscreen-controlled sound system with eight speakers and additional steering wheel controls. The Lux model adds leather upholstery, walnut dash and console inserts, reverse sensors, a navigation system, keyless access and push-button start. The top Executive model features a sport-tuned suspension for a better driving experience, and it also has an upgraded navigation system, a DVD player and an improved sound system.

The 2012 Eos performs very well as a cruising car, providing comfort and enough power to truly enjoy the ride.