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ReprintsClunkers had VW pining for Phaeton
Automotive News
September 21, 2009 - 12:01 am ET
Cash for clunkers convinced Volkswagen that it could relaunch the $70,000-plus Phaeton luxury sedan in the United States if it were offered with a diesel engine, its top U.S. executive says. The VW brand sold about 11,500 vehicles during cash for clunkers. But it might have sold more if it had not run out of popular diesel-powered vehicles such as the $22,270 Jetta TDI station wagon, says Stefan Jacoby, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. The strong demand for VW's diesel models during the federal incentive suggests that a diesel Phaeton might work as a high-tech, energy-efficient model, Jacoby says. VW is eager to reverse its decision to yank the slow-selling car from the United States. The Phaeton was launched in 2003, and 1,939 units were sold in 2004, its peak year. By 2007, the Phaeton was off the market. Says Jacoby: "I have to admit that it was a mistake to take this car out of the market." |
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