New 2009 Volkswagen Eos

There are car buyers whose glances at convertibles conjure the idea of that special drive with the sun kissing your head and the wind touching your face. Shoppers that don’t wish to lose their shirts to enjoy this experience continue to stop by the 2009 Volkswagen Eos, which will allow you to soak up all of the sunshine and blue sky that your heart desires.

The Eos comes with front wheel drive as a two-door convertible and demonstrates similar traits to those of the luxury variety. Two desirable trim levels – Komfort and Lux – display a well-balanced sense of refinement with power in the form of a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 200-horsepower. Both offer the automaker’s six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), an automated-clutch manual transmission that performs quick gear shifts when the driver engages the steering-wheel-mounted controls. The Komfort style level also offers a six-speed manual transmission for those who would prefer this type of control.

The retractable hardtop with multifunction glass top is a primary selling point for the Eos. Closing in just 25 seconds and needing only 16 inches of clearance space in the vehicle’s rear when operating, rear sensors will provide early warnings if you don’t have the space to operate. Such a feature sets the Eos apart from other competitors in its class, including the Chrysler Sebring, Ford Mustang GT, BMW 128i and Pontiac G6. A strong fuel economy rating with 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway only furthers the Eos’ argument.

The Eos seats up to four passengers with excellent interior materials and finish paired with ample cabin space. Also available is the Technology Package, which provides for adaptive bi-xenon headlights and park distance control. The Navigation Infotainment Package is offered on the Lux with touch-screen navigation system and a standard definition memory card slot, auxiliary audio jack, USB port and built-in 30GB hard drive.

Volkswagen continues to tout - with good reason – its continued stellar marks in highway safety testing. Antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control and front side airbags that provide upper body protection come standard on the Eos.

For a fun ride that showcases a touch of luxury without the cost typically associated with it, the 2009 Volkswagen Eos makes perfect sense for the ultimate top-down driving excursion.