Introduction
Today, we present an all-new vehicle, the latest model from the German automaker Volkswagen Arteon 2018. Officially unveiled at this year's Dubai International Motor Show, the Arteon is set to be the most luxurious model from Volkswagen, replacing the Volkswagen CC.
Volkswagen aims to compete with vehicles such as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Let's delve deeper into the Arteon, and don't forget to subscribe to the Yalla Motor YouTube channel and activate notifications to stay updated with the latest car tests by Yalla Motor.
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Main Specifications
- Engine: 2.0 liters / 4 cylinders
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Power: 280 horsepower / 320 Nm torque
- Top Speed: 250 km/h
- Price: 233,100 AED
Exterior Design
Let's start, as usual, with the exterior design of the car. Honestly, I must admit that Volkswagen has succeeded in creating a truly stunning design for this vehicle. Although the Arteon is built on the same platform as the Passat, it stands out with its larger length and width.
The design gives the car a presence and a sense of luxury while maintaining a sporty look through the long, straight lines used on the large front grille, which blend into the design of the car's LED headlights. With the R-Line version we are discussing today, we get dynamic headlights that move with the curves of the road to provide the best possible visibility.
Details that enhance the Arteon's design and increase its presence and luxury include strong lines on the front and sides, as well as frameless windows. Additionally, the hood is designed as a single large piece that rests directly above the wheel arches, eliminating any visible seams on the top. You will also notice the "fastback" design at the rear, reminiscent of Audi vehicles.
The R-Line variant comes equipped with a set of 20-inch black alloy wheels, but what truly makes this car stand out on the road is its distinctive golden color, which accentuates all the design details we've discussed.
Interior Design
What first grabs your attention inside the Arteon is the spaciousness of the vehicle. The interior space comfortably accommodates five adults.
You'll notice similarities between the interior design and the exterior, as the same straight lines are present on the dashboard, giving the car's interior an elegant and luxurious look, just like its exterior. However, the rest of the car resembles many other Volkswagen models.
The materials used inside are also on par with the quality of any Volkswagen vehicle. I appreciated the use of a metallic finish on the dashboard in the R-Line version we have today. Of course, don’t misunderstand me; being similar to any other Volkswagen isn’t a bad thing, as their cars are known for their durability. However, with a car that Volkswagen aims to position against BMW and Audi, one would expect higher quality materials.
Technological Features
Like most cars in this segment, the Volkswagen Arteon is equipped with numerous features, starting with keyless entry and ignition, the ability to open the trunk by waving your foot under the car, and a sunroof.
The entertainment system's display is large and centrally located, but I found it somewhat difficult to use due to its placement. I wished we had a control dial like the MMI system from Audi or the iDrive from BMW.
Of course, the car is equipped with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity to link mobile phones, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is a designated smartphone space in the center console with wireless charging capability, but I am puzzled as to why the space allocated for the phone is small and doesn't fit the sizes of current smartphones.
The Arteon features a digital display instead of a traditional instrument cluster, allowing us to customize the information displayed according to our needs. The car is also equipped with 360-degree cameras and sensors, a parking assist system, blind-spot monitoring, as well as cruise control and speed limiter functionalities.
Driving Experience
The Arteon comes with two engine options, both turbocharged and 4-cylinder. The first produces 190 horsepower, while the second—equipped in the car we have today—produces 280 horsepower. This engine is paired with a DSG 7-speed transmission, and the R-Line benefits from all-wheel drive and a dynamic suspension system that adjusts based on driving modes.
Despite its size and weight, the car is fast enough. With these mechanical specifications, derived directly from the Volkswagen Golf R, the Arteon can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h.
I hope to see a stronger engine option soon. While the car is quick enough, I would prefer a sportier feel, especially when in sport driving mode. However, for daily driving, it is a very comfortable car, with good interior quietness—qualities that people seek in this segment of vehicles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I can say that the Arteon is a very beautiful car with stunning exterior and interior designs and is well-equipped. But will it be able to entice those looking for a vehicle in this segment to overlook the fact that it’s a Volkswagen? Prices for the Volkswagen Arteon start at 188,000 AED and reach up to 222,000 AED for the R-Line version we tested today. If you decide to purchase the Arteon, my advice is to choose this color, as it significantly enhances the car’s presence on the road.
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