The Volkswagen Arteon is a sleek, stylish sedan that blends luxury with practicality, aiming to compete with premium brands like Audi and BMW. Launched in 2017 as a successor to the Passat CC, the Arteon stands out with its bold design and upscale features. It’s not just another family car, it’s Volkswagen’s attempt to break into the luxury car market with a vehicle that’s as eye-catching as it is comfortable. In this Volkswagen Arteon review, we’ll dive into its performance, features, price, and how it stacks up against rivals like the Audi A5 and BMW 3 Series. Ready to see if this Volkswagen luxury car is worth your attention? Let’s get started!
Performance Specs
The Arteon specs showcase a car built for both relaxed cruising and spirited drives. Volkswagen offers a range of engines, though availability depends on the market. Here’s a breakdown of the key Volkswagen Arteon features in terms of performance:
- Engines: The Arteon comes with petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options. The standout is the 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI petrol engine, delivering up to 300 horsepower in the SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion model. The Arteon R, a performance variant, pushes out 320 horsepower for those craving extra thrill.
- Transmission: Most models feature a smooth seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG), though a six-speed manual is available in some regions. The DSG offers quick, seamless shifts, perfect for both city and highway driving.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard, but the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is available on higher trims, improving traction in wet or snowy conditions.
- Acceleration: The Arteon R can hit 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, while the base 140TSI Elegance takes around 7.7 seconds, according to tests by Car and Driver and Auto Express.
- Handling: The Arteon’s steering is precise, and its optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive suspension lets you switch between Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes for a tailored ride.
While it’s not as razor-sharp as a BMW 3 Series, the Arteon balances comfort and agility, making it a great choice for long drives or daily commutes.
Interior and Features
Step inside the Arteon, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels upscale yet familiar. The Volkswagen Arteon features a high-quality interior that rivals pricier competitors. Here’s what you can expect:
- Spacious Cabin: The Arteon offers generous legroom and headroom upfront, with a rear seat that comfortably fits two adults. Taller passengers might find the sloping roofline a bit tight in the back, but it’s roomier than the Audi A5 Sportback.
- Digital Cockpit Pro: A 10.3-inch customizable digital gauge cluster displays navigation, media, and driving info with crisp graphics.
- Infotainment: An 8.0-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 9.2 inches) supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Volkswagen’s We Connect app for remote access.
- Premium Materials: Soft-touch surfaces, Nappa leather seats (on higher trims), and 30-color ambient lighting create a luxurious vibe.
- Cargo Space: With 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 56.2 cubic feet with seats folded, the Arteon’s hatchback design offers SUV-like practicality.
The interior feels refined, but some critics note it borrows heavily from the Passat, lacking the unique flair of an Audi A5’s cabin. Still, it’s a comfortable and tech-packed space for the price.
Design
The Volkswagen luxury car stands out with its bold, coupe-like design. The Arteon’s sleek lines and aggressive stance make it one of VW’s most striking models. Key design highlights include:
- Exterior Styling: A wide front grille, sharp LED headlights, and a swooping roofline give the Arteon a sporty yet elegant look. The 2020 facelift added a sleek Shooting Brake (wagon) variant for extra style and utility.
- Wheel Options: Ranging from 17-inch to 20-inch alloys, the Arteon’s wheels enhance its premium appeal. The R-Line trim adds sporty touches like gloss-black accents and chrome exhaust tips.
- Color Choices: Vibrant options like Turmeric Yellow and Lapiz Blue Metallic let buyers personalize their ride.
The Arteon’s design turns heads, but its bold styling might not appeal to those who prefer the understated look of a traditional sedan.
Safety Tech: Confidence on Every Drive
Safety is a strong suit for the Arteon, which earned top marks in Euro NCAP crash tests in 2017. The Volkswagen Arteon features a robust suite of driver-assistance tech, including:
- Standard Features: Adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road sign recognition.
- Advanced Options: A 360-degree camera, park assist, and side assist with rear traffic alerts are available on higher trims.
- Unique Tech: The Arteon’s emergency assist system can pull the car over if it detects an unresponsive driver, a rare feature in this class.
These features make the Arteon a safe and confident choice for families or long-distance drivers, matching or exceeding rivals like the BMW 3 Series.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
The Arteon specs include impressive fuel economy for a luxury sedan. According to the EPA, the Arteon achieves:
- Front-Wheel Drive: 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway.
- All-Wheel Drive (4Motion): 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway.
- Plug-in Hybrid (eHybrid): Up to 25 miles of electric range and 47.9 mpg combined, ideal for short commutes.
The Arteon’s efficiency is competitive, though it trails slightly behind the BMW 3 Series’ hybrid options. Premium fuel (95 or 98 RON) is recommended to maintain the petrol particulate filter, which could increase running costs.
Arteon Price
The Arteon price varies by trim and market, price started at $63,990 for the 140TSI Elegance Liftback, with the Shooting Brake at $65,990. The high-performance 206TSI R-Line ranges from $71,590 to $73,590. In the U.S., the Arteon SEL R-Line started at $44,305, with the top-tier SEL Premium R-Line at $51,470.
Compared to rivals, the Arteon offers strong value. It undercuts the Audi A5 Sportback ($85,800) and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe ($77,900) while delivering similar features and space. However, its Volkswagen badge may lack the prestige of premium brands, which could affect resale value.
Comparison: Volkswagen Arteon vs. Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 3 Series
How does the Arteon stack up against its premium rivals? Let’s compare it to the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 3 Series:
- Audi A5 Sportback:
- Pros: Sleeker interior design, smoother V6 engine (in some models), stronger brand cachet.
- Cons: Pricier (starting at $78,500), less cargo space (21.8 cubic feet), and less standard equipment than the Arteon.
- Verdict: The A5 feels more luxurious, but the Arteon offers better value and practicality for the price.
- BMW 3 Series:
- Pros: Sharper handling, more powerful hybrid options, better resale value.
- Cons: Firmer ride, less rear headroom, higher starting price ($77,900 for the 4 Series Gran Coupe).
- Verdict: The 3 Series is the driver’s choice, but the Arteon is more comfortable and spacious for families.
The Arteon holds its own with a blend of style, space, and affordability, though it may not match the dynamic edge or badge appeal of its German rivals.
Pros and Cons of the Volkswagen Arteon
Pros
- Eye-catching, coupe-like design
- Spacious interior and large cargo area
- Advanced safety and tech features
- Competitive pricing for a luxury sedan
- Smooth and comfortable ride
Cons
- Lacks the premium badge of Audi or BMW
- Rear headroom can be tight for taller passengers
- Infotainment system can be finicky to use while driving
- Not as engaging to drive as BMW rivals
Final Verdict: Is the Volkswagen Arteon Worth It?
The Volkswagen Arteon is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a Volkswagen luxury car that combines style, comfort, and value. Its bold design, spacious interior, and advanced tech make it a strong contender in the premium sedan segment. While it may not have the sporty edge of a BMW 3 Series or the upscale badge of an Audi A5, the Arteon offers a unique blend of practicality and luxury at a lower price point. It’s ideal for those who want a head-turning sedan that’s comfortable for long drives and versatile enough for family needs.
However, its Volkswagen branding and slightly less engaging driving dynamics might deter buyers prioritizing prestige or performance. If you value space, style, and savings over badge snobbery, the Arteon is a fantastic pick.
