 The Volkswagen Phaeton W12 is the best kept secret in luxury automobiles.  it has features galore, impressive performance, and terrific handling.  Some critics have said the steering is too soft.  Having owned at least one of each German made car, I can say the handling can only be criticized by a professional driver or nitpicking journalist.  It corners beautifully and the all wheel drive is a bonus. I can only be critical of the navigation system, it doesn't have any street names.  Otherwise, the car surrounds you with luxury and performance.  With factory rebates to dealers, the price is astounding for a car of this level.  I shopped the Audi A8L, BMW 745, and Mercedes S500.  This car is a notch above them for about the same price. 