Verdict
The Volkswagen Eos is a smart, stylish upmarket convertible with a premium feel and a clever metal folding roof.

Expert rating: 3.6

Pros
• Upmarket styling
• Premium cabin
• Impressive ride comfort

Cons
• Limited trim range
• Expensive options
• Folding roof limits luggage capacity

1. Exterior: 4/5
The Volkswagen Eos was designed from the outset as a convertible, which has resulted in a look that's stylish and upmarket while the neat roof mechanism ensures Volkswagen has avoided creating an unsightly bump above the boot.

2. Interior: 4/5
Inside, there's the usual VW combination of classy design, unfussy functionality and good quality materials. The information display clear and there's a premium feel which suggests this should have been an Audi.

3. Practicality: 4/5
The five-piece folding roof reduces boot space when the lid is down, to 205 litres, but 380 litres with the roof up is very decent. Two very useable seats are in the back, while a wind-deflector springs up from the top of the windscreen and works with an optional rear deflector to help stretch the open-top driving season.

4. Ride and handling: 4/5
It didn't feel like we were driving a car with the roof missing. We loved the extra freedom of open-air driving and the responsive handling, although it doesn't entertain in corners. For that you'd need a pricier BMW 3 Series Convertible, but the Eos is surefooted in all conditions.

5. Performance: 4/5
Buyers can choose between a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with 120 or 158bhp, a 207bhp 2-litre petrol or a 138bhp 2-litre TDI diesel. All cars have a six-speed manual gearbox, or a six-speed DSG semi-automatic. The 2-litre petrol engine, also used to power the Golf GTi, gives 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 147mph. The smooth and quiet 2-litre TDI is hugely popular thanks to its mixture of performance and economy.

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6. Running costs: 3/5
Average fuel consumption ranges from 39.8mpg for the 2-litre petrol to 58.9mpg for the diesel BlueMotion Technology, while emissions vary from 165 to 125g/km. The diesel is by far the cheapest to run, so it's no surprise it's also a top seller. Volkswagen offers competitive fixed-price servicing deals at the time of purchase.

7. Reliability: 3/5
Volkswagen boasts a hard-earned reputation for reliable cars. The Eos has engines which are tried and tested in other vehicles and the generally very high level of build quality suggests motoring should be trouble-free.

8. Safety: 3/5
The Eos has a four-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. It features anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), traction control and electronic stability programme (ESP). In the event of an accident there are rollover protection struts, six airbags and active front head restraints to help keep you safe.

9. Equipment: 3/5
Buyers can choose between SE, Sport and Exclusive trim. SE trim includes CD/radio with Aux-in, air-con, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors and fog lights with cornering function. Sport trim adds 18-inch alloys, sports suspension, MDI USB and iPod connection, folding door mirrors, ambient lighting and aluminium-look pedals. The top of the range Exclusive trim adds dark-tinted rear lights, upgraded interior trim, leather upholstery and heated front seats.

10. Why buy? 4/5
The Eos' handsome styling attracts plenty of admiring glances, and its folding roof can still draw a crowd.