The Sacramento Bee's view

Automakers sometimes get a little carried away when they introduce a new vehicle, but it’s a bit understandable with the all-new 2007 Volkswagen Eos.

There’s really nothing else like it out there.

VW says its four-passenger, hardtop Eos convertible was named for the Greek goddess of dawn, who “rises up from the depths of the ocean each morning in her chariot to bring daylight to mankind.”

OK, that’s pretty over the top. But then again, the same can be said of the Eos roof, the vehicle’s signature feature.

The Eos comes with a first-in-the-industry retractable hardtop with a built-in power sunroof. And there’s a heated rear window in the five-panel folding roof.

Sound complicated? Hang on, we’re just getting started.

With the top up and closed, hitting a switch on the center console activates eight hydraulic cylinders with mechanical linkages. The rear trunklid opens from its top edge and leans backward, making room for the roof panels to stack on top of each other.

Then, the “sandwich” (Volkswagen’s word) of panels lowers into the trunk’s back end, and the decklid comes down, closes and seals.

The whole operation takes 25 seconds, and what an entertaining nearly-half-minute it is. Putting up the top is just as entertaining.

I was awestruck the first time I put the paneled roof through its paces, yet I cringed at the thought of how many moving parts were making it possible.

Besides providing amusement for passersby, the special retractable roof gives motorists plenty of options. The incorporated power sunroof can be adjusted to let in small portions of sun and air; stowing the retractable hardtop in the back enables driver and passengers to enjoy the complete open-air experience.

Just understand that with the hardtop stored in back, cargo space in the Eos is reduced to around 6 cubic feet.

Among the car’s three trim levels, the tested Eos 3.2L is the most expensive — starting at $36,850 — but it’s also the top performer, with a 3.2-liter V-6 rated at 250 horsepower. That’s 50 more horses than you get on the base Eos and the 2.0T version.

The tested 3.2L, with an exceptional six-speed automatic transmission, performed with gusto in all situations. A firm, sporty suspension system also was a plus.

The Eos’ federal classification is a subcompact, but the 173.5-inch-long Volkswagen felt more substantial on the roadway. Think midsize.

Thankfully, VW designed the car for just four. Even then, those two in the back seats might feel cramped. Trying to cram in three folks would have been criminal.

From the driver’s seat, the interior layout is most pleasant — comfortable, easy-to-read gauges and understandable controls within easy reach. Even with the top down, interior wind buffeting and noise are minimal.

Exterior styling is pleasantly sporty, with a general wedge shape and a bold, two-tier front grille. The car’s snout looks just a touch stubby in profile, but otherwise, the Eos is eye-catching.

An outstanding standard safety package includes side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control and a system that triggers roll bars if a rollover appears imminent.

Who will buy this car?. One assumes it will be folks with discretionary income, especially if they opt for the 3.2L.

With options that included a navigation system, a premium sound system and leather interior surfaces, the bottom line on the tested 3.2L’s sticker came to a hefty $40,930. That’s a fairly steep price for a small convertible.

Throw in VW’s recommendation that the 3.2L’s V-6 be fed with premium gas — fuel economy ratings are a so-so 22 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg on the highway — and the dollars add up.

Still, the Eos 3.2L comes off as a comparative bargain, given the high-tech hardtop, the high-performance power plant, the top-notch safety systems and the prices for other premium, European-made convertibles. Hint on that last item: It’s more than $40,000. Sometimes, it’s a lot more.

So, if you have the finances for this brand of VW fun, I have no good arguments against an Eos purchase. You can consider that 25-second retractable-roof show a bonus.

2007 Volkswagen EOS at a glance

Make/model: Volkswagen Eos 3.2L Vehicle type: Four-passenger, two-door, front-drive, hardtop convertible Base price: $36,850 (as tested, $40,930) Engine: 3.2-liter V-6 with 250 horsepower at 6,300 revolutions per minute and 235 foot-pounds of torque at 2,500 rpm EPA fuel economy: 22 miles per gallon city; 29 mpg highway (premium unleaded recommended) Transmission: Six-speed automatic with overdrive Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion Brakes: Power four-wheel discs (ventilated on front) with anti-lock Suspension: Independent, MacPherson strut-type on front; independent, multi-link on rear Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons Passenger volume: 91 cubic feet Maximum cargo volume: 9.3 cubic feet Curb weight: 3,686 pounds Height: 56.8 inches Length: 173.5 inche Wheelbase: 101.5 inches Width: 70.5 inches Track: 60.8 inches on front; 61.1 inches on rear Ground clearance: 5.5 inches Tires: P235/45R17 all-season radials Final assembly point: Palmela, Portugal