Volkswagen Eos convertible (2006-2014) - Engines, drive & performance
The Volkswagen Eos boasts a strong engine lineup and decent handling, but ultimately it's hampered by weight of its roof
Volkswagen Eos petrol engines
The Eos engine range includes an eco-friendly BlueMotion diesel, but the clever folding roof is quite heavy, so the bigger of the two petrol engines naturally makes the car a better proposition in terms of out-and-out performance. That engine is the 207bhp 2.0-litre TSI petrol from the Golf GTI, which has lots of character combined with plenty of pace. Versions of the Eos with this engine are the fastest, getting from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds.
However, the entry-level 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol has 158bhp and feels powerful enough most of the time. It’s more economical than the 2.0-litre version and is only a second slower going from 0-62mph, taking 8.8 seconds.
Volkswagen Eos diesel engines
The 138bhp 2.0-litre BlueMotion diesel can be quite noisy, but it offers a good blend of performance and economy. It’s capable of 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds, but its pulling power lower down the rev range compared to the petrol engines makes it feel nippier than the stopwatch would suggest.
A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted to the Eos as standard, but the optional DSG automatic transmission makes gearchanges swift and smooth and suits the Eos’ relaxing nature.
The Eos is predictable and safe through corners, with responsive steering and good body control, even with the roof down. Though it can feel sporty on twisty roads, the reason we think it’s ultimately a relaxing car rather than a razor-sharp one is because the weight of the roof makes it less responsive – the Eos certainly doesn’t compare favourably with a car like the Volkswagen Golf when it comes to handling.
Ride quality is impressive, though, particularly considering all Eos models now come with lowered sports suspension. The car deals with bumps and potholes impressively well, yet it’s not so soft that it rolls around too much in bends.
