2009 Volkswagen Eos Houston Texas

Reader’s Question:

I’m thinking of getting a convertible as a gift for myself. Yay! What can you tell me about the VW Eos?

Hannah

Houston, TX

With Volkswagen, you’re sure to get top-notch German engineering and dependability, and the Volkswagen Eos is no exception.

The Eos is a 2-door, 4-seat retractable hardtop convertible. In 25 seconds, you change a coupe into a convertible. Did I mention that the hardtop includes a sunroof and heated glass rear window? No? Well, you’ll be sure to attract attention with it because retractable hardtops are a relatively new technology. Also, something called the Trunk Lid Assistance Program monitors and stops the roof from operating if there is something in the way. And for additional coolness factor, not only will the Eos’ windshields turn on automatically when moisture is detected on the glass, but wipers adjust their speed according to the density of rainfall.

For 2009, there are two trims offered, the base Komfort and the Lux model, and both run on a 2-liter 4-cylinder 200-hp engine. Standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, but you may opt to get the 6-speed DSG or Direct Shift Gearbox, which would give you the ease of driving without the clutch pedal (because the clutch is engaged/disengaged automatically), but the advantages of a manual transmission (quicker throttle response).

The Volkswagen Eos is an awesome cross between a sedan and a sports car—comfortable and practical yet enables you to worship Eos, the goddess of sunrise, from your front (or back) seat.

Volkswagen 2009 Passat Houston Texas

Reader’s Question:

I’ve always had a compact and now I feel like moving up in size. I’m thinking of whether I should go Japanese or German. If I visit a VW dealer in Texas, would the price tags there be enough to give me a heart attack?

Woody
Houston, TX

Hey there, Woody! That’s a hard decision. Turn Japanese or go German. Both smack of brilliant engineering and both will give you value for your money. To answer your question -No, the VW shop in Texas should not give you a heart attack. After all, if you read the VW ads, they claim that you get luxury and German engineering without the hefty luxury car price tag. One car that should interest you is the 2009 VW Passat.

So, what is the Passat all about? The Passat’s looks just smack of European design but with kindness to your wallet in mind. The current Passat model already comes ready for action with its 200 horsepower Turbo 4 -cylinder engine. That should be enough to get you to 60 mph under 8 seconds. As standards, you’ll enjoy the interiors that include free satellite radio for three months and heated front seats. I also think that you’ll get a kick out of having as a tempting option, a 12-way power seat for the driver. That’s to get you snug behind the wheel and enjoy the ride. After all, Passat’s suspension is tuned to provide comfort and give you that luxurious European car feel without a feeling of guilt for breaking your bank.

Volkswagen 2009 Jetta Houston Texas

Reader’s Question:

I have always been intrigued by German engineering, and I’ve always wanted one on four wheels. Thing is, I’m afraid that I can’t afford one but I think I can gamble on a VW. If I’m to drive a Jetta on the roads of Texas, answer this question: What’s there to enjoy about the VW Jetta?

Larry

Houston, TX

Hey there, Larry! Jetta outta here! Back in the old days, there was the Beetle which was quite reliable. Anyway, the Jetta could be the match for you. I don’t think you need to break the bank to get one of these mid-size sedans from VW. I think if we do a bit of snooping around, we might just get you to drive a Jetta in Texas. Current owners are loving the Jetta in terms of comfort and the overall drive, I bet there won’t be much resistance from you once you get in one for a test drive.

The Jetta is one of those cars that are between a family sedan and a sporty compact. I can talk to you about the standard 2.5 liter 5-cylinder engine types of the Jetta. But right now, I’m thinking of pushing you to drive a TDi. You got that right, a TDi, Turbo Diesel. VW brought back its common rail diesel engine for the US market with the promise of lower emissions. Just fill up with ultra low sulfur diesel and you’re ready to go. Okay, surprised with recommendation? Well, if the Jetta meets the VW claim of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, then it’s a worthy addition to the roads. You get low emissions, good fuel economy and 236 lbs-ft of torque. I think this spells efficiency which is the trademark of German engineering.