Phaeton body almost any vehicle with two axles and a row or rows of seats across the body could be called a phaeton. Convertibles and pillarless hardtops were marketed as "phaetons" after actual phaetons were phased out. The term "phaeton" had historically described a light, open four-wheeled carriage. When automobiles arrived it was applied to a light two-seater with minimal coachwork. The term was interchangeable with "spyder", derived from a light form of phaeton carriage known as a "spider". Originally meant to denote a faster and lighter vehicle than a touring car, the two terms eventually became interchangeable. A detachable folding or
Volkswagen Phaeton models, with five seat layout or an optional four seat interior. In the five seat version, the front seats can be adjusted 12 ways. Standard features include all wheel drive, air suspension, and four zone automatic climate control. A multifunction steering wheel can be ordered in leather or wood leather. , powertrain options for the Phaeton include the following engines. 4motion permanent four-wheel drive is the only driveline system available, except for the 2003 and 2004 model years when front wheel drive was available with the 3.2 litre engine. Vehicles manufactured for sale in the North American market were only