[ad_1]
It’s not uncommon for a car to be canceled late in the development phase, but it’s rare that we get a chance to take a good look at a canceled project. The Phaeton D2 (codenamed after the D-segment, second-generation model) was designed in 2014 and is almost ready to enter production. It should be over 5.3 meters (nearly 210 inches) in length and take advantage of the latest VW Group technology along with the latest Audi A8.
Thomas from Autogefuhl had the opportunity to get up close and personal with the ill-fated Phaeton D2, which was developed on the MLB Evo platform like the A8. The designers used a lot of chrome on the outside, including for the glossy 21-inch alloy wheels and many trim pieces. We’d venture to say that Audi’s Four Rings wouldn’t look out of place in this car, but many would argue that sticking with the A8 makes more sense.
9 Photo
The lavish interior hosts what VW calls the Innovision Cockpit, which it eventually made its way to production in Touareg. This canceled Phaeton full-size sedan ticks all the luxury car boxes, featuring plenty of leather and Alcantara, along with wood and metal surfaces. Air vents in the B-pillar, rear seat entertainment system and tightly closed doors are the hallmarks of a premium sedan. We could say the same about the ample rear legroom and the center console at the back with screens and switchgear to control the seats and other functions.
Interestingly, the Phaeton is supposed to get electrochromic side windows, which is a technology found only on ultra-high-end models for the sunroof. At the touch of a button, users can switch from frosted to transparent glass and vice versa. Talking about the good features, the plug-in hybrid was developed with wireless charging in mind. The capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel, which are now available on some VW models, are also installed.
VW Group Design Klaus Zyciora – who was responsible for core brand design when the Phaeton D2 was in development – admits the car was dropped because of Dieselgate and its subsequent decision to go full EV. Some elements do flow to the Touareg, but a new top-range sedan is not on the agenda for now.
[ad_2]
Source link
