Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton |
| Generation | Phaeton (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 W12 (450 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic 4 Seat |
| Start of production | May, 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 21.4 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.2 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 348 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 190.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 6050 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75 Hp/l |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 2750-5200 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 2750-5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA398 / BRN, BRP, BTT |
| Engine displacement | 5998 cm3 (366.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | W-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.2 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 17 l (17.96 US qt | 14.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2359 kg (5200.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2880 kg (6349.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 521 kg (1148.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5059 mm (199.17 in.) |
| Width | 1903 mm (74.92 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2118 mm (83.39 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2881 mm (113.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 118 mm (4.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 12.9° |
| Departure angle | 15.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 11.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 365×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 335×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18; 245/45 R19; 255/40 R19; 275/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 19; 9J x 20 |
The Volkswagen Phaeton 6.0 W12, produced during the 2010-2011 model years as part of the facelifted second generation (2008-2016), represented the pinnacle of Volkswagen’s luxury sedan ambitions. Positioned as a direct competitor to the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the W12 variant offered a unique combination of performance, technology, and handcrafted luxury. This iteration, built on the D3 platform (also known as the 4H platform), aimed to showcase Volkswagen’s engineering prowess and establish the brand in the ultra-luxury segment. The facelift brought subtle styling revisions and updated technology, but the core appeal remained the sophisticated W12 engine and all-wheel-drive system.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Phaeton W12 is the EA398 engine, specifically the BRN, BRP, or BTT code variants. This 6.0-liter W12 engine is essentially two narrow-angle VR6 engines joined at a 15-degree angle, creating a compact and relatively smooth powerplant. It features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 6,050 rpm and a substantial 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque between 2,750 and 5,200 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes refinement and low-end torque over outright peak power. Paired with the W12 is a ZF 5HP24A five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system is permanent, distributing power to all four wheels for enhanced traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The Phaeton W12 delivers a remarkably smooth and effortless driving experience. The high torque output of the W12 engine provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The Tiptronic transmission, while not as quick-shifting as modern dual-clutch transmissions, offers smooth and predictable gear changes. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.8 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. Compared to the more common V6 or TDI versions of the Phaeton, the W12 offers significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. However, the added weight of the W12 engine and all-wheel-drive system does impact handling agility somewhat. The air suspension provides a comfortable ride, effectively isolating passengers from road imperfections.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The W12 Phaeton came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and a high-end audio system. Standard equipment also included features like adaptive cruise control, a navigation system, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, and a power-operated rear sunshade. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, upgraded leather options, and various customization options through Volkswagen’s Exclusive program. The interior design focused on creating a serene and luxurious environment for both the driver and passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Phaeton W12 utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent trapezoidal lever rear suspension, both incorporating air suspension for a comfortable ride. The air suspension allows for adjustable ride height and damping settings. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger discs up front (365x34mm) compared to the rear (335x22mm). The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing a smooth and stable ride over sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Phaeton W12 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, it was often criticized for its high price, which put it in direct competition with established luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Fuel economy was also a concern, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 16.2 US mpg. Compared to the V6 and TDI Phaeton models, the W12 offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a substantial price premium and with higher running costs. The TDI models, in particular, offered a compelling combination of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for many buyers.
Legacy
The Phaeton W12, while not a commercial success in the same vein as its competitors, remains a unique and intriguing vehicle. The W12 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Today, the Phaeton W12 is a sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its engineering sophistication and luxurious appointments. Used examples are relatively rare and can command premium prices, particularly those in excellent condition with low mileage. The Phaeton W12 represents Volkswagen’s ambitious attempt to challenge the established luxury car brands, and it remains a testament to the company’s engineering capabilities.
