2011 VW Phaeton: Prices announced

The 2011 VW Phaeton starts at £46k

VW has announced that the revamped VW Phaeton will cost from £46,195 for the 3.0 litre V6 TDI 240PS BlueMotion.

We did wonder whether it was actually worth running the news that the 2011 VW Phaeton will cost from £46,195, as it’s probably only a relevant story for about three people a year in the UK. Which might be an exaggeration. But only just.

Which is a real shame because the facelifted VW Phaeton, which was introduced at the Beijing Motor Show this year, really is a very good car indeed. It’s just, unfortunately, like all other big VWs have ever been – anonymous. For some reason big VWs just don’t seem to float car buyers’ boats.

Maybe the idea of paying anything from £46k to nearly £80k is just not acceptable when the badge says ‘Peoples Car’. But for VW – just like for PSA – there is a certain pride attached to having a top-end car. Yes, VW has no shortage of top-end cars through its many marques. But a top-end VW car with a VW badge is a must. Even if it doesn’t sell.

The changes to the 2011 Phaeton include a sharper-edged design which gets bi-xenons with LEDs and a new grill up front. The bonnet and bumpers get a tweak and there are new alloys on offer.

Inside there are new trim finishes, a new steering wheel and new driver’s colour display. The Phaeton also gets Google Maps on its SatNav. None of which will unfortunately persuade many to part with almost £80k for the top of the range 6.0 litre W12 Phaeton. But it should, because this Phaeton shares around 90% of its DNA with the Bentley Flying Spur.

And the Bentley is £45k more.

2011 VW Phaeton Models & Prices