An interesting car this week from Volkswagen – the Arteon, billed as a four-door Coupe, a Gran Turisimo or GT car, a replacement for the CC Coupe perhaps but according to VW the Arteon
combines the space and comfort of a saloon with the sharp styling and performance of a sports car– a hard task for a model designed to capture buyers from Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW. The
design of the VW Arteon is interesting – the frontal treatment appealingly different – the grille extending the full width of the car and into the headlights. The side profile shows a low and swoopy roof line and a practical lift-back. Just one model – the 206TSi 2.0-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder driving through a 7-speed DSG automatic and 4-MOTION all-wheel-drive. Its sophisticated, loaded with technology and standard equipment and well-priced at $65,490. In many ways the Arteon is an upmarket Volkswagen Passat, the interior much the same although certain aspects are
a class above. This is a car that excites in some areas like style, engine torque, interior room and a high level of technology but for a car billed as a GT its lacks the sporty edge that its maker
suggests makes up half its personality. It is this aspect alone that sets it apart from a good Audi or BMW with sports character. Comfortable yes and very relaxing to drive and superbly built, fit and
finish a standout, but it’s oversold as a GT car. The Volkswagen Arteon has much to like but its selling in a market segment where there as some very good German coupes. I’m David Berthon

2017 Volkswagen Arteon.

2017 Volkswagen Arteon.

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