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.