The Vw Eos: Closer To Audi Territory


Better than a Rabbit and a bargain compared to Audi, the Volkswagen Eos has a sunroof or convertible setup considered so revolutionary that it snagged a “2006 Best of What’s New” award from Popular Science magazine in the automotive category.

However, some automobile analysts say the operation of the retractable hardtop is not particularly special, though quite well done. When the lid is up, it is not folded nicely into the truck but snug and tight over your head. This process takes 25 seconds. While this is being done, the passengers may simply slide a panel over and get light, but just a bit more, in the cabin. The Eos has an integrated, power glass sunroof, making it a true four-season ragtop.

Nonetheless, the Eos starts at a very reasonable $36,900. This price makes it one of the best, if not the best, value in hardtop convertibles. The Volvo C70 hardtop convertible, for instance, lists for $56,495. It is of course way more expensive and definitely up there by most standards, but yes, it is a reasonable comparison. The closest competitor to the Eos is probably Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Spyder that costs $31,998-$36,998. The Spyder only comes with a power soft-top, although the Spyder GT-P ($36,998) has a 260-horsepower V-6.

The Eos 2.0T has its 200-horsepower inline-four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual. If you want the six-speed Tiptronic automatic, one will needs to the $1,400 tab. The Volkswagen in Canada, however, does not offer the top-of-the-line Eos 3.2L model with a 250-horsepower V-6 engine.

The name Eos comes from the Greek goddess of the dawn, who is also the mother of the winds Passat and Jetta.

Don?t go thinking though that the front-wheel-drive Eos is your regular, cutesy ragtop because it is definitely not. The VW Eos is a grown-up convertible with substantial, but not bulky, styling thanks to design highlights that include the wide chromed grille, expressive headlights and black louvers. Generally speaking, the coupe-style body looks good.

And here?s another thing — the cabin departs a little from your traditional VW interior design, this time sporting a pleasing contemporary look, accented by metallic-look trim. The front seats feel roomy, the controls including the ones for the convertible operation are simple and straightforward and the rearward visibility is thankfully good.

Upgrades include a sport leather package at $3,885, a removable wind blocker at $375, a removable ski bag at $250 and a park distance control at $350.Standard for the Eos are power windows, door locks, a good stereo, cruise control. With the usual durable VW ball joints, the Eos has an interior with two small cup holders that do not adjust.

It has turbocharged engine, which delivers 200 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, and six-speed manual transition. Fuel economy with the manual is pegged at 10.1 litres/100 km city/6.8 highway.

The cars safety features include the usual four-wheel disc brakes with anti lock and electronic brake assist, and an anti-skid program. Also, front and side airbags with a head extension are standard.

The Eos running gear is patterned to the Rabbit/Jetta platform, and the rear suspension is based on the Passat.

Thanks to all the smart engineering and design work by the brilliant minds at Volkswagen the Eos is seemingly moving closer to Audi territory.

Washington Dc Limo Tours


Located between the two US states Maryland and Virginia, Washington DC is the capital of the United States of America. Besides being a power center for international politics, Washington DC, situated on the bank of the river Potomac, has a historical and cultural heritage that goes back to the time when Americans fought her war of independence under the able leadership of George Washington. The name of the city still bears testimony to the noble leader and his brave associates.

The city boasts 173 foreign embassies and a number of administrative buildings of American and international institutions including the famous White House, the beautiful residence of the president of the US. Washington DC is also famous for a number of museums and historical monuments. It is a history-lover?s delight and boasts a museum, memorial, art gallery or park at almost every corner of the city,

There are three airports, which serve the city of Washington DC, which are Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). DCA is located across the Potomac River at a convenient distance from downtown Washington. Most international tourists however arrive at IAD, which is around 25 miles away from Washington. BWI, situated 30 miles away from the city is another option for foreign visitors.

You can take any type of ground transportation from any of these airports to reach your destination inside the city. One excellent option is to book a limousine service in Washington DC. You simply need to find a limousine service in Washington DC on the Internet and call the agency to book a car to pick you up from the airport. It is very convenient for a large family or group of friends who would like to travel together in complete comfort.

A limo service will also provide you with absolute privacy and let you work on your laptop without any disturbances while on your way to a business conference. Also, if you are late for your flight or have very less amount of time to reach the airport after your conference if over, you should book a limo service for no other car rental will be as punctual and helpful.

For sightseeing purposes also you can book a limo. Taking tours of Washington DC in an impeccably maintained, stylish limo is an unforgettable experience. The legendary courteousness of the limo chauffeurs who can act as your guides will make every moment of the trips pleasurable. Most limousine services in Washington DC provide luxury limos, sedan, stretch SUVs, limo buses and vans. Take a pick according to your taste and specific need. If you have some works at Alexandria, you can avail the service of an Alexandria VA limousine rental to reach your destination. However, before you ride a limo, don?t forget to make sure that the driver has a proper license to drive limo in or near the Washington DC area.