The Volkswagen Arteon, despite its stunning exterior, is being discontinued. A recent test drive highlights why this stylish sedan failed to capture the market, focusing on its performance, specifically its 0-60 time.
While undeniably beautiful, the Arteon’s roughly 5-second 0-60 mph time, achieved thanks to its 300 horsepower engine and all-wheel drive, masks underlying issues. The hefty price tag of nearly $50,000 for a Volkswagen raises eyebrows, especially when compared to similarly priced Audi models. Brand perception plays a role; Volkswagen lacks the aspirational status of luxury marques.
Interior and Build Quality Concerns
The interior, while a step up from the Golf, falls short of expectations for a $50,000 vehicle. Cheap buttons, hard plastics, and questionable build quality detract from the overall experience. A noticeable creaking of door seals during incline transitions hints at potential chassis flex, a surprising issue for a car in this price range.
Excessive and jarring beeps and bongs further diminish the driving experience. The sheer volume and frequency of these alerts, particularly a loud buzzing when opening the driver’s door while the engine is running, are distracting and poorly implemented.
Drivetrain Disappointments: From 0 to 60 and Beyond
The Arteon’s 2.0L turbocharged engine, paired with a dual-clutch transmission, delivers disappointing drivability. Initial acceleration from a stop is characterized by a noticeable lack of power followed by a sudden surge as the turbo spools up. This lurching behavior, unacceptable in a modern vehicle, significantly impacts the driving experience.
The dual-clutch transmission, while smooth during hard acceleration, exhibits questionable logic in normal driving conditions. Premature upshifts followed by immediate downshifts indicate poor programming. Furthermore, manual downshifts provide negligible engine braking, hindering spirited driving.
Redeeming Qualities: Chassis and Handling
Despite its flaws, the Arteon boasts a competent chassis. Its steering is precise, handling is confident, and grip is ample, making for a satisfying grand touring experience. The ride, while firm, remains comfortable. These positive attributes highlight the missed potential of the Arteon.
alt text: Rear seats of the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon showing ample legroom
Conclusion: A Disappointing Farewell
The Volkswagen Arteon’s discontinuation is unsurprising given its shortcomings. While its 0-60 time hints at performance potential, significant drivability issues, a subpar interior for its price, and questionable build quality ultimately contribute to its downfall. The Arteon serves as a reminder that beauty alone is not enough; a well-rounded package is crucial for success in the competitive automotive market.
