Volkswagen’s next-gen Phaeton will rival the Mercedes S550 hybrid in form and function

By Miles Branman June 25, 2015

VW-Phaeton-rendering-2017 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Volkswagen’s Phaeton was initially a pet project of Ferdinand Piech, designed to challenge Germany’s best luxury sedans at a relative bargain. It filled an interesting role alongside the VW Group’s other luxury halo sedan, the Audi A8. The Phaeton may have been powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine, but it was ordained as a luxury cruiser, not a sport sedan.

Now, Volkswagen is developing the next generation of the sedan, and after a long hiatus from the U.S. market (where it didn’t sell all that well), the 2017 Phaeton will return to the states. New details about the model are emerging, including information about its powertrain options.

The most significant bit of news is that the Phaeton will have a plug-in hybrid version for the first time. Previous generations had diesel engine options for the European market, but a hybrid drivetrain will help the Phaeton rival models like the Mercedes-Benz S550 Hybrid.

In the Phaeton’s most important markets: the U.S. and China, hybrid versions of luxury sedans seem to be more about status symbols that outright efficiency. That said, if fuel efficiency really doesn’t matter to the buyer, then VW Group’s new twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine with over 600 horsepower and 663 pound-feet of torque is the way to go. Even with that kind of power, the new W12 will average 22 miles per gallon combined.

As with the first generation of the Phaeton, Volkswagen plans to compete with the Mercedes S class and Lexus LS, while its Audi A8 will take on the BMW 7 Series. What remains to be seen is if the new Phaeton will sell any better than its predecessor, which, even at a discount compared to its rivals, didn’t quite have the pedigree to lure $100,000 sedan shoppers.

Look for some trend-setting technology and styling to set the Phaeton apart from the rest of the Volkswagen lineup when it goes on sale towards the end of 2016.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.