Volkswagen Eos Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 3dr Car Review - March 2012

Inside the cabin it’s easy to find the perfect driving position thanks to the ample adjustments available on both the driver’s seat and steering wheel. All round visibility is excellent with the roof up. Unlike some of its rivals, access to the cabin is not hampered by steeply sloping windscreen pillars.

The 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology engine fitted in this version produces a healthy 138bhp with an equally potent 236lb-ft of torque available low down in the rev range. Top speed is 129mph and 0-62mph comes in a respectable 10.3 seconds. The engine has plenty of power, responds well and provides impressive fuel economy of a combined 58.9mpg and low CO2 emissions of 125g/km. The 6-speed manual gearbox fitted works well and gear changes have a nice positive feel.

The Eos Sport gives an excellent ride. Body shake is almost non-existent with the roof up, and its lowered sports suspension soaks up bumps and uneven surfaces without fuss. The steering is well-weighted and responsive and it handles in a very predictable and safe manner with lots of grip available.

Wind noise is evident at motorway speeds, but the Eos’ metal roof does a much better job of cutting out exterior noise than many of its rivals with soft-tops. The 2.0 diesel engine is refined and smooth and produces little noise inside the cabin, and there’s not too much wind buffeting with the roof down either. Overall it’s a sure-footed, comfortable and refined ride.

The Eos looks great from any angle with its classic lines and elegant styling, both inside and out.

All trim options include an integrated sunroof. The Eos Sport comes well equipped with power steering, central locking, larger alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, rear parking sensor, alarm, immobiliser, CD+MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth, lowered sports suspension, automatic headlights and wipers.

VW also offers a range of optional extras including climate control £460, metallic paint £465, cruise control £220, leather seats £1,485 and satellite navigation £785.

The Eos has space for four adults, unlike some others that make the claim. Rear space is good and two adults can travel in comfort, even with the roof up. Getting in and out of the rear is also easier than in some other cars in this class. Boot space available is sufficient (205-litres) for a couple of suitcases with the roof tucked away, and with the roof up the space available (380-litres) is on a par with others in its class.

Safety features in the Eos include front and side airbags, ISOfix child seat anchor points, stability control system, and pop-up roll hoops in case of tipping over. With the roof up, it rates as well as a standard VW Golf for safety.

The build quality and the quality of the materials used in the Eos are obvious. The cabin interior is solid and classy. Most of the mechanical components used in the Eos have been well tried and tested and owners have rated its reliability as excellent.

The Eos is covered by Volkswagen’s three-year 60,000 mile warranty.

The VW Eos Sport competes with other drop-tops from Renault and Peugeot and slightly more upmarket versions from Volvo and Audi. It can look a bit pricey at £26,100 compared to the offerings from Renault and Peugeot, however, its quality, image and exceptional resale values make it worth the extra.

Its strong, clean engine makes the 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology one of the best choices in the Eos range and running costs are comparable with others in this class. Insurance is in group 23, and Road Tax in VED band D.

With excellent resale values, you should have no problem selling it on or trading it in, as it will be much sought after as a used buy.