2023 Volkswagen Arteon

You can have any 2023 Volkswagen Arteon, as long as its an R-Line! You can see some of the major differences below, all iterations have a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Pricing ranges from just over $43,000 for the SE up to just over $50,000 for the SEL Premium like our tester.

Even though the SE R-Line now also comes standard with adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, and lane-keeping assist, we think the SEL R-Line strikes the best balance of style and standard features. Compared with the entry-level model, it boasts a snazzier cabin that has cool ambient lights, real leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is motivated by a 300-hp, turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 295 pound-feet of torque; it’s mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base SE model is front-wheel drive only, but all-wheel drive is standard on the SEL and SEL Premium. Depending on the trim level, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon comes standard with 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheels.

Adaptive suspension dampers are standard and adjust automatically to your driving style or be manually set to Comfort, Normal, or Sport. Regardless of the setting, the ride is smooth and controlled. Precise steering is reminiscent of the 10Best-winning Golf GTI, and the handling is competent, but you won’t confuse this big VW for a sports sedan. The Arteon is quick too, snapping off a 4.6-second run to 60 mph and eclipsing the quarter-mile in just 13.3 seconds at 103 mph at our test track.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA has estimated 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for front-wheel drive Arteon models and 22 mpg city 31 mpg highway for all-wheel drive models. Once we can test one on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the Arteon’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is furnished with good-quality materials though the design is admittedly conservative. Nevertheless, VW carved out plenty of interior room from the big five-door’s rakish profile. Two large-framed six-footers can ride upfront without ever rubbing elbows. Rear seating is similarly accommodating, and there’s a noticeable increase in legroom compared with the old, discontinued VW Passat sedan.

The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon’s hatchback opens to reveal a generous 27 cubic feet of cargo capacity. We managed to fit nine carry-on suitcases behind its rear seat and another 12 (21 total) with the back seat stowed, so it’s a near-SUV in terms of practicality. All Arteons come with heated front seats, and a power liftgate. Opting for the top-of-the-line SEL Premium adds ventilation for the front seats, a massage feature for the driver, heated seats for rear passengers, 30-color ambient lighting, and Black Carbon interior trim.

Photos

Specifications