The Volkswagen Phaeton Long (facelift, 2010) 3.0 V6 TDI 240 Hp 4MOTION Tiptronic represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s flagship luxury sedan. Produced from May 2010 to October 2013, this variant aimed to blend performance, efficiency, and the sophisticated technology expected of a high-end vehicle. Positioned as a premium offering within the Phaeton range, it sat above the base models and below the more powerful V8 and W12 options. The facelift brought styling updates and refined the already luxurious interior, solidifying the Phaeton’s attempt to compete with established German rivals like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. This model is based on the D2 platform, shared with the Audi A8 of the same era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton |
| Generation | Phaeton Long (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 TDI (240 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic |
| Start of production | May, 2010 |
| End of production | October, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 237 km/h (147.26 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 223.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA896 / CEXA |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2830 kg (6239.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 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%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5179 mm (203.9 in.) |
| Width | 1903 mm (74.92 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2118 mm (83.39 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3001 mm (118.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 310×22 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Phaeton, launched in 2002, was Volkswagen’s ambitious attempt to enter the ultra-luxury sedan segment. The Long variant, offering extended wheelbase and increased rear passenger space, further emphasized the car’s focus on comfort and prestige. The 2010 facelift brought revised styling, improved technology, and updated engine options, including the 3.0 V6 TDI with 240 horsepower. This particular configuration, paired with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, aimed to provide a balance of performance, efficiency, and all-weather capability. It was primarily marketed in Europe and Asia, where diesel engines were more popular and accepted in the luxury car market.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Phaeton Long 3.0 TDI lies the EA896 engine family, specifically the CEXA code. This 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power and torque. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to efficient gas exchange. The Tiptronic six-speed automatic 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 a permanent system, distributing power between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction and stability. The transmission is designed to handle the substantial torque output of the diesel engine, offering smooth and relatively quick shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 V6 TDI with the Tiptronic transmission delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the engine provides ample torque – 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) – available from a low 1500 rpm, resulting in strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 8.2 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 147 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, isn’t as quick-shifting as some dual-clutch transmissions found in rival vehicles. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising and fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful V8 and W12 Phaeton models, this variant offers a more economical and accessible entry point into the Phaeton range, sacrificing some performance for improved fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Phaeton Long 3.0 TDI came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments included high-quality leather upholstery, wood trim, and a multi-function steering wheel. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium audio system, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras included massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, and a more advanced navigation system. The “Long” designation meant extended rear legroom, making it particularly appealing to chauffeur-driven buyers. The dashboard layout was clean and elegant, with a focus on user-friendliness and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Phaeton Long features an independent suspension system all around, with double wishbones at the front and a trapezoidal lever setup at the rear. Air suspension is standard, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, and allowing the ride height to be adjusted. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness, contributing to the car’s overall refinement. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Phaeton, despite its quality and technology, struggled to gain widespread acceptance in the luxury car market. Critics generally praised the car’s build quality, ride comfort, and spacious interior, but it was often seen as lacking the brand cachet of its established rivals. The 3.0 TDI variant was particularly well-regarded for its fuel efficiency and strong torque output. Compared to the petrol-powered Phaeton models, the TDI offered significantly better fuel economy. However, it wasn’t as quick or refined as the V8 or W12 options. Reliability was generally good, although the complex electronic systems could occasionally present issues.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Phaeton was discontinued in 2016, largely due to its consistently low sales volume. The 3.0 V6 TDI engine, however, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. In the used car market, the Phaeton Long 3.0 TDI represents a relatively affordable entry point into the world of luxury sedans. While it may not have the prestige of a Mercedes-Benz or BMW, it offers a compelling combination of comfort, technology, and value. Properly maintained examples continue to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience, and the engine is known for its longevity, making it a viable option for buyers seeking a well-equipped and spacious luxury car.
