2005 Volkswagen Phaeton Long Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Phaeton Long ranges from approximately 2390 kg to 2462 kg (5270 to 5427 lbs), depending on the variant and equipment level. The maximum permissible weight ranges between 2910 kg and 3010 kg (6417 to 6634 lbs). This weight accounts for the fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. The relatively high curb weight reflects the car's robust construction, extensive luxury features, and sound insulation that contribute to its refined driving experience and safety.

The Volkswagen Phaeton Long offers a luggage capacity of 500 liters (17.7 cubic feet). This is fairly generous for a full-size luxury sedan, providing enough space for multiple suitcases or large items. When compared to other luxury sedans in its class, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 7 Series of the same era, the Phaeton Long's luggage space is competitive but slightly less than some rivals with larger trunk volumes. Nevertheless, it balances practicality with its extended interior space that emphasizes passenger comfort in the rear seats.

With a length of 5175 mm (203.5 inches) and width of 1903 mm (74.9 inches), the Volkswagen Phaeton Long is a large luxury sedan that fits within most standard residential garages, which typically range from about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 19.7 feet) in depth. While the length might consume much of the garage depth, careful parking can accommodate the vehicle comfortably. Additionally, its height of 1450 mm (57.1 inches) poses no issues for standard garage door clearance. Owners with narrow or compact garages should measure carefully to ensure easy maneuvering.

The Volkswagen Phaeton Long, produced from 2005 to 2010, is an extended version of the standard Phaeton which debuted earlier. The primary difference lies in the wheelbase extension, adding increased rear legroom and comfort for passengers. The overall length of the Phaeton Long is 5175 mm (203.5 inches), which is roughly 150 mm (5.9 inches) longer than the standard Phaeton. The width and height remain very similar between both versions. This extension enhances the luxury appeal for chauffeur-driven service, offering superior interior space without significantly impacting maneuverability compared to its predecessor.

The Volkswagen Phaeton Long comes equipped with 7.5J x 18 inch rims paired with 235/55 R18 Y tires. The 18-inch rim size is suitable for a full-size luxury sedan, providing a good balance between ride comfort and precise handling. The tire size offers a sidewall tall enough to absorb road imperfections, contributing to a smooth ride expected in this class. The 'Y' speed rating indicates tires rated for high speeds, which supports the Phaeton Long’s powerful engine options and stable road performance. Overall, this setup aids in delivering a refined driving experience with confident grip and comfort.

The Volkswagen Phaeton Long was designed with an extended wheelbase to provide exceptional rear-seat passenger comfort, rivaling other luxury sedans like the Audi A8 L, Mercedes-Benz S-Class long-wheelbase, and BMW 7 Series long-wheelbase models produced around the same timeframe. Its extended length allows for increased legroom and overall spaciousness in the rear cabin, targeting markets where chauffeur-driven cars are preferred. While it may not offer the absolute largest interior among competitors, its execution emphasizes privacy, luxury amenities, and comfortable seating over sheer cabin size.

Despite its large dimensions—5175 mm (203.5 inches) in length and 1903 mm (74.9 inches) in width—the Volkswagen Phaeton Long offers features that ease parking and urban driving. Many models are equipped with parking sensors and optional cameras to assist maneuvering in tight spaces. The car’s electronic aids and power-assisted steering help reduce the effort required to navigate city streets. However, due to its length, drivers may find it challenging to handle in very tight or congested urban areas compared to smaller sedans, so careful planning and use of assistance systems are recommended.

During its production period from 2005 to 2010, the Volkswagen Phaeton Long offered a range of powerful engine options including V6 and V8 gasoline engines, as well as a W12 engine for top-tier performance. The W12 was particularly notable for its smooth delivery of high power output and refined operation, befitting a luxury sedan of this stature. Diesel engines were also available in certain markets, catering to buyers looking for a combination of performance and fuel efficiency. These engines were paired with advanced automatic transmissions and all-wheel-drive systems, ensuring excellent driving dynamics.

The Volkswagen Phaeton Long stands out among rival full-size luxury sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8 by offering a slightly more understated design combined with high-end craftsmanship and unique engineering features like an advanced all-wheel-drive system and extensive use of high-quality materials. Its extended length of 5175 mm (203.5 inches) gives it a commanding road presence and spacious rear cabin comparable to the best in its class. However, unlike some competitors that focus heavily on brand prestige, the Phaeton Long emphasizes refined comfort, innovative technology, and subtle luxury, appealing to buyers seeking exclusivity without overt flashiness.