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2006 Volkswagen Phaeton W12
Date in fleet: June 5-19 As-tested price: $103,245 Powertrain: 6.0-liter W12; awd, five-speed automatic Output: 444 hp @ 6000 rpm, 406 lb-ft @ 3250-4250 rpm Curb weight: 5399 lbs Fuel economy (EPA combined/AW observed): 14.12/15.58 mpg
RAYNAL: All I can do is laugh at the notion of a Volkswagen costing $103,000. Of course that's preposterous. Could be the dumbest car on the planet. That doesn't mean I don't love driving it-or wouldn't love to own it.
This is one heck of a beautiful car to look at, drive or just sit in. It's ultra quiet, too. And with 444 hp on tap, it is no dog.
The smoothness is the biggest thing one notices in this car. From fluidity of the major controls to the throttle's long travel to the W12's turbine feel. The car doesn't so much accelerate in the familiar way, but rather quietly yet swiftly gathers momentum.
If I had the means, I would figure out a way to have one of these, knowing full well, with VW/Audi's shaky quality reputation, it would probably turn in to the ultimate frustrating owner experience.
People's car indeed. A gorgeous, stupid, people's car.