Sorority sisters, rejoice, for there is a cute new Volkswagen convertible on the way! The 2007 Volkswagen Eos convertible, named after the Greek goddess of sunrise, is based on the all-new Passat sedan’s platform, and replaces the old four-seat Cabrio in VW’s lineup. The Eos’s distinguishing characteristic is a five-piece retractable hardtop with a tinted glass moonroof for an open and airy interior even when the roof is raised. When dropped, which takes about 25 seconds, the sectioned top stacks in the trunk, leaving 7.2 cubic feet of cargo room for small duffle bags underneath. Normally, the trunk can hold 13.4 cubic feet of stuff.

The 2007 Volkswagen Eos is powered by a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder driving the front wheels. After the initial launch, a 250-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 matched with VW’s excellent Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) clutchless manual transmission may become available.

Fully equipped in a single trim level, the 2007 Volkswagen Eos includes stability control, a pop-up safety roll bar, and side impact airbags as standard equipment. Sixteen-inch wheels and tires also come standard, with stylish 17-inch wheels, a navigation system, a premium audio system with 10 speakers, and Climatronic automatic climate control listed on the options sheet.

Styling is a blend of crisp, clean lines and VW’s emerging trademark drooping headlights and circular taillamps. The 17-inch wheels look terrific, and the tinted glass roof is cool, but the roofline is boxy and not at all appealing. Like most convertibles, the Eos is more attractive when the top is down, but even then the car’s excessive front overhang, massive grille, and large headlights conspire to create an unbalanced appearance.

Inside, Volkswagen’s traditionally rich materials decorate the cabin. Black is the primary décor color, but contrasting leather seats and door panel inserts, combined with silver trim accents, brighten the interior. The glass roof also helps to lighten what could be a dour driving environment.

The 2007 Volkswagen Eos is set to arrive just in time for the summer of 2006, with prices starting in the high $20,000 range, slotting in just above the New Beetle Cabriolet. With space for four adults and true four-season capability, the Eos is likely to find its fair share of buyers. Especially on Sorority Row.