Even more sophistication with revised Volkswagen Phaeton

Following its debut at the Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen has announced a number of revisions to the Phaeton luxury saloon with new features being added to the model range. Prices for the revised model, fitted with a 3.0-litre V6 TDI 240 PS engine, start at £44,235 RRP on the road.

Inside, new touchscreen satellite navigation and climate control systems feature as standard as part of a redesigned centre console, alongside a refreshed instrument cluster and multifunction display.

Side Scan blind-spot monitor is now available as an option on the Phaeton for the first time, building on the already extensive list of safety equipment fitted to the vehicle. This technology, currently available on the Touareg, monitors the area next to the vehicle and acts as a lane changing aid with an audible alert and a small warning lamp in the wing mirrors to warn of the danger of collision.

Other options new to the Phaeton are a rear-view camera and the powerful 1,000-watt Dynaudio soundpack, which includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 12 speakers.

Subtle design tweaks have also been made to the exterior, including a revised front grille featuring a three-dimensional Volkswagen roundel. A range of new metallic paint finishes and three new alloy wheels, in 17-, 18- and 19-inch designs, have also been added.

The Phaeton is available with a 3.0-litre V6 TDI 240 PS with DPF (diesel particulate filter) or 6.0-litre W12 450 PS petrol engine. All models have standard 4MOTION four-wheel drive and are available with a long wheelbase, giving 12 cm additional rear legroom.  The 3.0-litre V6 TDI is now offered with a standard wheelbase.

The revised Phaeton is available to order now, with new cars arriving in the UK in January 2009.