Volkswagen Phaeton 3.0 V6 TDI 4MOTION LWB 4dr Car Review - February 2012

The Volkswagen Phaeton 3.0 V6 TDI 4MOTION LWB 4dr comes with a 24 valve, 6 cylinder V6 TDI turbo-diesel engine which produces 237bhp. Acceleration is fairly swift for a big saloon, going from 0-62 in 8.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 147mph. This model comes with an automatic gearbox which makes the driving experience more relaxing.

Air-filled suspension comes as standard which makes the ride extremely smooth, however the Phaeton does suffer from noticeable body roll when cornering and the car's sheer size can be a problem on small roads.

The Phaeton is not a car for anybody expecting to turn heads - the Mercedes S-class and BMW 7 series both have a more imposing on-road presence.

The same criticism could be levelled at the interior, which is bland and uninspired - a disappointment for a modern luxury car. Those seeking a luxury experience behind the wheel may be put off by the Phaeton's rather grey and boring interior.

The standard model comes with four-zone electronic climate control, cruise control, heated front seats with 12-way electric adjustment, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, satellite navigation, multifunction computer, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors, leather upholstery, a multifunction steering wheel, manually operated rear side window sunblinds, electrically-operated rear windscreen sunblind and an electric sunroof.

As a big luxury saloon car, it will come as no surprise to learn that the Volkswagen Phaeton comes with an ample 500 litre boot space, matching that of rivals Audi A8 and the BMW 7 series and being ideal for use as a family car. The long-wheelbase design provides plenty of legroom in both the front and rear of the car offering uncontested luxury.

As a luxury car, the Phaeton hasn't been subjected to the Euro NCAP tests, however the sheer size and weight of the Phaeton makes it an extremely tough vehicle which would protect its occupants well in the event of an accident. ESP stability control, ABS (with hydraulic brake assist), electronic brake-pressure distribution, driver, front passenger, four side and two curtain airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners all come as standard.

In terms of reliability, very few problems have been reported to Volkswagen and those that have are minor electronic glitches which have been cheap and easy to correct.

At £53,255, the Phaeton undercuts all of its main rivals, like the BMW 7 series, Jaguar XJ, Audi A8 and Mercedes S-class but as it doesn't offer anything close to the standard equipment, style and appeal of the others, it's easy to see why. Depreciation is also a worrying factor as it is quite steep for this model and with CO2 emissions at a high 224g/km, road tax will be fairly costly.

For a luxury car that is cheaper than its competitors, spacious, comfortable and reliable, the Phaeton is a viable and sensible option. However, it would be wise to have a look at other similar cars and considering a used Phaeton before purchasing.