VW Phaeton returning to America as early as 2018

Though the Volkswagen Phaeton -- the brand's range-topping, understated luxury sedan -- disappeared from the United States market in 2006, never actually died. The tech-laden luxobarge is still offered overseas, and it has seen a number of revisions and updates since it was last offered here.

Of course, much more has changed since 2006 than the Phaeton's front fascia. VW has been on a world auto-market domination kick, we've endured a recession that precluded previous attempts to reintroduce the Phaeton to North America and company brass seem to have forgotten the ridicule the poor car was subjected to when it was on sale here.

They figure maybe -- just maybe -- we're ready to accept a new VW Phaeton. Or we will be ready in a few years: Word from the New York auto show floor is that the German automaker will bring the car back to U.S. dealerships in a few years.

Often characterized as the “answer to the question that no one asked” by Internet snarkers, the old Phaeton baffled domestic critics with its dizzying price tag (the car could sticker for well over $100,000) and lack of high-end cachet even as its walloping W12 (shared with Bentley Continental GT) and smooooooth road-going habits delighted.

There are Phaeton die-hards, though, who swear by the things. They love the anti-glare instrument cluster glass, the tailored air-conditioning system enabled by 25 servomotors (25!) and the insane pollen-sensing air filtration system. About the only thing they don't love are the repair bills.

In any event, Volkswagen seems eager to give it another go stateside. In a Bloomberg interview from the floor of the New York auto show, Michael Horn, VW Group of America CEO, says that Phaeton will be re-entering our market in 2018 or 2019.

So if you want Bentley Continental comfort, VW Passat styling and an Audi A8 price tag -- hell, we're not going to judge -- start saving for that down payment now. And remember to get your current Phaeton serviced regularly. 2018 is still a ways off.

By Graham Kozak