The 2024 Volkswagen Arteon, a full-size sedan, gracefully straddles the line between sophistication and sportiness. Its sleek design, spacious interior, and spirited powertrain make it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of practicality and style. Let’s delve into the details and explore what this German masterpiece has to offer.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Timeless Design: The Arteon’s exterior design has aged like fine wine. Its elongated silhouette, bold grille, and sculpted lines exude elegance.
- Generous Cabin Space: Stretch out in the Arteon’s roomy interior. Legroom and headspace are abundant, making long journeys comfortable.
- Potent Powertrain: The 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides spirited acceleration, making highway merges a breeze.
- Adaptive Suspension: The Arteon’s adaptive suspension adjusts seamlessly to your driving style, offering a smooth and controlled ride.
Cons
- High Starting Price: The Arteon’s entry point might raise eyebrows. It’s not the most budget-friendly option.
- Awkward HVAC Controls: The climate control buttons could use some simplification.
- Touch-Sensitive Steering Wheel Controls: While futuristic, they can be finicky and distracting.
How Much Does it Cost?
The 2024 Arteon straddles the line between premium and mainstream, reflected in its price tag. The entry-level 140TSI Elegance starts at around $63,990 (plus on-road costs), while the range-topping 206TSI R-Line Shooting Brake will set you back roughly $73,590.
Features and Benefits
Interior Comfort and Technology
- The Arteon’s cabin feels upscale, with soft-touch materials and attention to detail.
- Ambient lighting sets the mood, and the panoramic sunroof floods the interior with natural light.
- An intuitive infotainment system keeps you connected on the go.
Performance and Handling
- The 300-hp turbocharged engine delivers exhilarating acceleration.
- Adaptive suspension dampers ensure a comfortable ride, whether you’re cruising or cornering.
Safety
- Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
- The Arteon’s robust construction contributes to its crashworthiness.
Running Costs
- Fuel efficiency is decent for a car of this size, but don’t expect Prius-like numbers.
- Routine maintenance costs are reasonable, thanks to Volkswagen’s widespread service network.
Comparison to Competitors
While the Arteon shines in many areas, it faces stiff competition. If you’re looking for a traditional large sedan, rivals like the Toyota Camry or Kia Stinger offer more space at a slightly lower price point. However, if you crave a touch of European flair and a blend of sporty looks with practicality, the Arteon stands out. Its closest competitor might be the Skoda Superb, which offers similar features and performance at a marginally more affordable price.
Conclusion
A Stylish Statement with a Hint of Nostalgia
The 2024 Volkswagen Arteon might not be brand new, but it remains a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and well-equipped car. It offers a comfortable and tech-laden interior, a choice of engines, and a design that turns heads. However, with the global phase-out on the horizon, potential buyers might need to act fast to secure their piece of this automotive excellence.
Rating: 8/10
The Arteon is a fantastic offering for those seeking a stylish and feature-rich alternative in the shrinking sedan market. While the lack of significant updates for 2024 and potential limited availability might be drawbacks, its undeniable charm, comfort, and performance make it a compelling choice for drivers who appreciate a touch of European flair.