A Technology Showcase You Can Drive on Public Roads

While it's easy to be captivated by its flowing coupe-like styling, the depth of the Volkswagen Arteon lies in its functionality, which embodies Volkswagen's latest technology. It is, in essence, a technology showcase that can be driven on public roads.ArteonIt is, in essence, a technology showcase that can be driven on public roads.

For example (and the list is endless), the Traffic Assist, a system that supports following in traffic jams, and the Park Assist (parking assistance system) are very useful functions for everyday use, strongly suggesting that the Arteon is designed with autonomous driving in mind. Partial autonomous driving functions are standard equipment. Most of the advanced safety technologies you see in car commercials are standard (even if named differently).

The infotainment system, which reduces various information processing, and gesture control for easy operation are also standard. The latest avant-garde functions are packaged in a futuristic, elegant form.

Styling That Establishes a New Category Beyond Sedan, Wagon, or Coupe

Its dynamic fastback design is said to "combine the comfort of a sedan, the functionality of a station wagon, and the style of a coupe," and this statement is not an exaggeration.

The body size of 4,865mm long x 1,875mm wide x 1,435mm high is slightly larger than the Passat, and with a long wheelbase of 2,835mm, the interior space is vast. Once seated in the Nappa leather-trimmed seats, you might momentarily forget that it's a stylish fastback.PassatOnce seated in the Nappa leather-trimmed seats, you might momentarily forget that it's a stylish fastback.

Furthermore, opening the rear hatch reveals a spacious luggage compartment. With a capacity of 563 liters with all seats occupied, and 1,557 liters with the rear seats folded down, it boasts a capacity comparable to a station wagon. The power tailgate also features an easy-open function, allowing it to open by placing your foot under the bumper, similar to an SUV or station wagon. This is very convenient when your hands are full of luggage (a surprisingly common situation). It can be used like a sedan or a station wagon.

Yet, it possesses proportions reminiscent of a coupe. Details such as the hood that covers the top of the wheel arches and the horizontal front grille bars integrated with the LED headlights further emphasize the wide body. In the side view, the character line that runs from the hood to the taillights creates an impression of a lower stance. The massive bulge above the rear wheels resembles bulging muscles.

The side windows are frameless, and the entire glass area is bordered with chrome, giving the Arteon an elegant profile. While incorporating sporty details throughout, it establishes a styling that is neither a sedan, a station wagon, nor a coupe. And once you take the wheel, you'll understand that the Arteon is surprisingly a grand tourer with a broad stride.

The Quick Response of the 7-Speed DSG is Almost Moving

Under the hood is a 2.0 TSI engine producing a maximum output of 206 kW (280 ps) and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The transmission is the latest wet-type 7-speed DSG, the same as used in the first minor change of the new Golf 7, and its precise feel is impressive. Even in situations like driving for over an hour on a tight, winding road at night with poor visibility, with four adults and their luggage on board, this precision allows for stress-free driving.Golf REven in situations like driving for over an hour on a tight, winding road at night with poor visibility, with four adults and their luggage on board, this precision allows for stress-free driving.

The combination of the 280 ps 2.0 TSI engine, 4MOTION, and 7-speed DSG is superb, providing ample power on both winding roads and highways. You can relax throughout the drive, confirming its status as a grand tourer. The quick response and gear changes of the 7-speed DSG are particularly noteworthy, almost moving.

Furthermore, the R-Line interior design, primarily in black, adds a touch of grandeur befitting a grand tourer. The combination of aluminum decorative panels, a piano black center panel, and Nappa leather seat trim creates a sophisticated yet sporty atmosphere, crafting a special space.

Comfort is not limited to the front seats; the long wheelbase ensures class-leading legroom in the rear. The coupe-like long roof also provides ample headroom in the rear, making it a shame to assume that the front seats are the only premium ones based on its styling.

A Cockpit Befitting a Futuristic Exterior

Regarding the interior, we must also mention the intelligence of the latest digital interfaces, such as the "Discover Pro" infotainment system with gesture control, the "Active Info Display" digital instrument cluster, and the head-up display.

These contribute to creating a cockpit that matches the futuristic exterior. While mastering them may require some practice, they offer significant benefits to the owner. Among them, the gesture control function, reminiscent of the old "vacuum shift," is superb; for example, when selecting radio stations, it is very logical for operation while driving. Its operation is also like something out of a sci-fi movie's spaceship, making it a feature you'll want to show off a little.

The Arteon's diverse color variations also eloquently speak to its character. Body colors like the vivid Chili Red Metallic (new color) and Turmeric Yellow Metallic (optional) are proof that the Arteon is a car that can be an aid to self-expression, accompanying the owner's private life.

This car evokes a sense of vacation. The Arteon doesn't care whether the destination is a ski resort or a summer retreat, whether it's just for the weekend or a long stay. Or rather, even when navigating through the city from one business appointment to another, it will offer a momentary respite with the anticipation of a vacation.

The Arteon doesn't shy away from being noticed. It is Volkswagen's new flagship model, edgier than it looks.

Volkswagen Arteon | Volkswagen Arteon
Body Size | Overall Length 4,865 x Overall Width 1,875 x Overall Height 1,435 mm
Wheelbase | 2,835 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,585 / 1,575 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 110 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,700 kg
Engine | 1,984cc Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC Turbo
Maximum Output | 206 kW (280 ps) / 5,600-6,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) / 1,700-5,600 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed DSG
Drive System | 4WD
Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension | 4-Link
Brakes | Ventilated Discs
JC08 Mode Fuel Economy | 13.3 km/ℓ
Seating Capacity | 5 people
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 meters
Price | ¥5,490,000 (R Line 4MOTION), ¥5,990,000 (R Line 4MOTION Advance)