VOLKSWAGEN EOS
The Concept C that was shown at Frankfurt two years ago is now a production reality called Eos. Based on the new Passat platform, the coupe/cabriolet--it employs a folding metal roof--will be available in Europe with a range of engines giving power outputs between 113 hp and 250 hp. Expect to see it in U.S. showrooms in March of 2006 with the 200-hp 2.0-liter turbo four from the Jetta GLI and the 250-hp 3.2-liter V6. The Eos comes with a full complement of standard equipment: stability control, front and front side air bags, sport seats, and sixteen-inch alloy wheels on the four-cylinder models. (V-6 versions get seventeens.) Pop-up roll bars are also fitted.
VOLVO C70
The last of the old-style Volvos, the C70 convertible has finally been replaced by a sexy new sun seeker that debuted at Frankfurt. The new C70 convertible--with a clever, three-piece retractable hard top rather than a traditional soft top--will be powered by the same 218-hp, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder turbo found in the S40 sedan and the V50 wagon, cars with which it will share a platform. While these chassis mates look similar, the only common body parts between the C70 and the S40/V50 are the hood, outside rear-view mirrors, and door handles. The normally aspirated, 168-hp 2.4-liter and all-wheel drive are unlikely options, however. A six-speed manual or five-speed manu-matic will direct power to the front wheels.