The Volkswagen Arteon is considered by many as the successor to the CC model and one of the most beautiful representatives of the D segment in general. What are the opinions about this model?
Many believe that the Volkswagen Arteon is simply a more beautiful and expensive version of the Passat for those who seek not only comfort and a bit of prestige but also driving pleasure, as well as a greater stir among jealous neighbors or rival company managers. There is some truth to that, as the Arteon not only looks much better and more elegant than the Passat but also has several functional advantages. First, the standard version is not a sedan, but a 5-door coupe in the Fastback style (whatever Volkswagen wants to call it), which means that the trunk lid opens together with the glass, positively impacting practicality. The Passat is a sedan, and if someone wants more practicality, they have to buy the Variant version. The Arteon also has its equivalent – the Shooting Brake – although the low roofline limits the usable space. However, as I mentioned, the most important thing here is style, not practicality. The Passat is there for that.
Used Volkswagen Arteon – body, dimensions
We’ve already learned something about the appearance, and comparing the Arteon to the Passat externally is somewhat pretentious. Of course, many technical elements are shared, but the body lines, front, and rear – similarities are hard to find. In the front, the wide grille plays the main role, elegantly and fluidly transitioning into interestingly shaped lights. The overall impression is rounded off by a simple yet distinctive LED marking. Although the Arteon is a mid-size sedan, it presents particularly well in the R-Line trim with an aggressively designed bumper and large wheels that perfectly fill the muscular fenders.
The low hood line and wedge-shaped side profile are also very interesting. The roofline gently slopes almost to the very end of the body and finishes with a discreet spoiler. The rear is accentuated by wide, three-dimensional shaped lamps. Add a vibrant body color, and you get a great recipe for a mid-size car that won’t get lost among similar cars in gray-boring shades. Attention should also be paid to the frameless doors. There are plenty of interesting details.
In terms of dimensions, the Arteon is 4862 mm long, 1871 mm wide, and 1427 mm high. The wheelbase is 2837 mm. The Shooting Brake version is 4866 mm long and slightly taller – 1462 mm.
Used Volkswagen Arteon – interior, trunk
The vehicle’s interior retains Volkswagen’s classic style, which many consider probably the last generation of ergonomic cockpits. After the facelift, there is a noticeable shift toward touch interfaces, which may not appeal to fans of traditional solutions – in that case, it’s worth considering looking for a pre-facelift model. The older version offers easy use, despite the presence of many modern features that are not intrusive. In richer trim versions, we can find elements like heated seats, a steering wheel, a high-quality Dynaudio audio system, and several assistance systems that enhance safety, including active cruise control. All functions are controlled via traditional buttons and dials. The interior design follows the brand’s tradition, with high-quality materials and excellent fit. Many practical features ensure everyday driving comfort and are family-friendly. While certain similarities with the Passat can be noticed, it’s hard to consider it a flaw in the interior – here, comfort and ergonomics are paramount.
This is evidenced by the 40:20:40 folding rear seatbacks and the ample legroom in the back. While the Passat might have been criticized for offering slightly less space than the Škoda Superb, the Arteon dispels doubts and provides plenty of room. We can also appreciate many practical solutions in the trunk, such as a cigarette lighter socket, bag hooks, additional compartments, a double floor, etc. Drawbacks? Unfortunately, the center tunnel is very high and significantly complicates travel for the middle-seat passenger, but if shorter passengers are in the back, they will easily handle longer trips. Taller passengers might have slightly less headroom, but two rear passengers should have very good conditions. The trunk volume of the Fastback version is a very respectable 563 liters, and after folding the seatbacks – even 1557 liters. The more practical Shooting Brake version offers 590 and 1632 liters, respectively. The difference is surprisingly small, although the higher roofline allows for carrying slightly larger items.
Used Volkswagen Arteon – engines
One of the most popular, albeit unfortunately departing models of Volkswagen, could not suffer from a lack of power units. The offer is very extensive and varied, both in terms of engines and transmission options, and drive versions. There are six engines available (excluding the top R versions). Three of them are gasoline – the 1.5 TSI with 150 hp and two 2.0 TSI engines with 190 hp and 280 hp (after 2019 – 272 hp) – while three are 2-liter diesel engines (TDI) with 150 hp, 190 hp, and 240 hp. The automatic transmission was optional in the two less powerful diesels and the 1.5 TSI version, while in other models, the automatic was standard. All-wheel drive was standard in the most powerful gasoline and diesel models, and optional in the 190 hp diesel.
The 2.0 TSI engine, even with 190 hp, offers enough dynamics for efficient driving in all conditions.
The most powerful gasoline version with 280 hp and 350 Nm of torque, combined with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, making the Arteon a very fast car. The most powerful version with the 2.0 TDI engine with 240 hp and an impressive 500 Nm of torque could also surprise many sports car owners. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.5 seconds, while the average fuel consumption is a modest 5.9 l/100 km. There’s also the R version with a 2.0 TSI engine delivering 320 hp and 420 Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes less than 5 seconds, and the top speed reaches 270 km/h. These are already sports car territories. There’s also a plug-in hybrid version based on the 1.4 TSI engine. The system has a total output of 218 hp, and the electric range on a full charge is 59 kilometers.
Used Volkswagen Arteon – reliability, typical issues
It’s important to note that the Arteon has narrow windows, which can make visibility difficult, and although parking sensors are standard in every version, along with an optional camera, it’s still advisable to check the bumpers and wheels for scratches or dents. Minor marks are not a major issue, but more serious impacts could indicate a strong hit to a curb or post, which could cause bending or wear of suspension parts, sensors, and other components that may not be visible at first glance. Are there serious and recurring problems? The Arteon is not among the cars that are completely problem-free, but there aren’t too many issues that are nightmares for owners. There have also been a few recall campaigns. For example, in models produced between August 21, 2017, and August 29, 2019, the metal housings of the rear wheel bearings can be damaged in extreme cases. After the damage, an unusual noise may be heard, or uneven tire wear may be noticed. Additionally, a small number of cars produced from the beginning of production until May 31, 2017, may have an issue with the panoramic roof cover not being properly attached to the frame. Any VW dealer will be able to inform you if a particular unit is affected by the problem and whether it qualifies for a recall campaign.
Used Volkswagen Arteon – summary
The Volkswagen Passat may be slightly cheaper and more accessible, but the Arteon will attract attention and offer much more driving pleasure. Any version, whether Fastback or Shooting Brake, in the right configuration, can captivate with its looks, style, and extras, while the ample space inside ensures comfort during long trips. It’s worth looking for well-maintained examples and enjoying one of the most beautiful representatives of the D segment.
Volkswagen Arteon – Dimensions, Trunk Capacity
Length/width/height: 486/187/142-146 cm
Wheelbase: 283 cm
Trunk capacity:
- Fastback: 563-1557 liters
- Shooting Brake: 590-1632 liters
Volkswagen Arteon – Technical Data, Performance, Fuel Consumption (Petrol and Hybrid Engines)
| Engine | 1.5 TSI | 2.0 TSI | 2.0 TSI | 2.0 TSI (R) | 1.4 TSI PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1498 cm³ | 1984 cm³ | 1984 cm³ | 1984 cm³ | 1395 cm³ |
| Fuel type | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol + EV |
| Max power | 150 HP | 190 HP | 280 HP | 320 HP | 218 HP |
| Max torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm | 350 Nm | 420 Nm | 400 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 9 s | 7.7 s | 5.6 s | 4.9 s | 7.8 s |
| Top speed | 222 km/h | 237 km/h | 250 km/h | 270 km/h | 222 km/h |
| Avg. fuel consumption | 5.1 l/100 km | 6.0 l/100 km | 7.3 l/100 km | 8.9 l/100 km | 1.1 l/100 km |
Volkswagen Arteon – Technical Data, Performance, Fuel Consumption (Diesel Engines)
| Engine | 2.0 TDI | 2.0 TDI | 2.0 TDI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1968 cm³ | 1968 cm³ | 1968 cm³ |
| Fuel type | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Max power | 150 HP | 190 HP | 240 HP |
| Max torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm | 500 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 9.4 s | 8 s | 6.5 s |
| Top speed | 222 km/h | 240 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Avg. fuel consumption | 4.3 l/100 km | 4.6 l/100 km | 5.9 l/100 km |
