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2007 Volkswagen Eos Preview

Next Summers Must-Have Accessory

It was about eighteen months ago that Volkswagen went on a spree introducing concept cars at every major international auto show. In 2003 it produced stunning prototype after stunning prototype, including the likes of the simple but elegant Concept C Coupe-Convertible, the Porsche Boxster-challenging mid-engined Concept R, and the all but forgotten Concept T dune-buggy. Despite all odds, and the rather conservative nature of Volkswagen (having defaulted on its promise to build the retro-styled Microbus), the Concept C was confirmed as a future model, and was shown in production form, complete with stunning styling and folding hardtop roof, for the first time at last months Frankfurt Motor Show.

Eos, VWs selected name for this retractable

The Concept C was confirmed as a future model and then shown in production form as the Eos at last months Frankfurt Motor Show. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

hardtop, continues on a tangent that breaks away from winds (Vento, Bora, Scirocco, Passat) and nomadic tribes (Touareg, Beduin) for something with a little more mystery - Greek Gods. Like the Phaeton luxury sedan, named after the great chariot pilot, Eos is an important mythical character believed to rise from the sea in her chariot and bring people daylight every morning. Eos is also the mother of wind (so VW hasnt left its wind name scheme completely

According to Volkswagen the Eos name "evokes associations with an idealized cabriolet driving situation in the early minutes of a summer day." (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

behind), and of the evening and morning star. According to Volkswagen the name, "evokes associations with an idealized cabriolet driving situation in the early minutes of a summer day." It also rates high for marketability, being that its short, simple and easy to pronounce in all markets (unlike Touareg).
One of the most important things to note about the Eos is that it rides on an all-new platform. Called the PQ45, it uses modern platform architecture allowing for a uniquely new type of platform sharing scenario, bridging

The Eos rides on a modern platform architecture that bridges the gap between the compact Jetta and midsize Passat. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

the gap between the compact Jetta and midsize Passat. As you may already have heard, VWs short-term goal is to diversify its product lineup via unique niche models, and the PQ series allows for this. Set components, such as front and rear suspension systems, electromechanical steering and transverse engine fittings were created, and then applied to the size-flexible chassis. The Golf/Jetta ride on the compact PQ35 which uses a narrow track and smaller wheelbase, while the PQ46 found under the Passat features a long wheelbase and wide track.

Unofficially speaking, the PQ45 architecture is the specialty platform which will underpin three vehicles, a sports car, a sports

With an extremely rigid underbody, highly responsive independent suspension systems and a wider footprint on the road, the Eos will banish VWs reputation of building hairdressers cars. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

sedan and a sports utility vehicle, all of which should appear within the next year or so. The Beduin compact SUV has already been reported on (see automotive news section for Jun 15, 2005: Automotive Crystal Ball: VWs Beduin Compact SUV on the Way), and has since been confirmed for production, while two potential names have been registered for the third vehicle, a swoopy, Mercedes-Benz CLS-like four-door coupe. What characterizes any of these vehicles as sporty is that each makes use of the best traits from the platform - the width and track of the PQ46, with the shorter length and wheelbase of the PQ35. With an extremely rigid underbody, highly responsive independent suspension systems and a wider footprint on the road, the Eos will banish

Matching its dynamics is a body that can be described as nothing less than stunning, and Im talking about the car. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

VWs reputation of building hairdressers cars - no offense to hairdressers intended.

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