The Volkswagen Arteon is Volkswagen’s flagship sedan, blending coupe-inspired design with the practicality of a four-door executive car. Since its debut in 2017, it has stood out as a stylish alternative to German luxury brands, and with its 2021 facelift, it continues to deliver refinement, performance, and advanced technology for drivers who value sophistication at a more attainable price.
A Brief History of the Arteon
Volkswagen first introduced the Arteon in 2017, reviving the brand’s fastback sedan concept after the Passat CC. Built on VW’s MQB platform, the Arteon was designed to compete with executive sedans while offering distinctive styling and near-luxury comfort.
The 2021 facelift enhanced its appeal with updated exterior styling, advanced driver assistance features, and an optional plug-in hybrid variant in select markets. For Kenyan buyers seeking a modern executive sedan with a touch of exclusivity, the Arteon remains an attractive choice.
Engine and Performance
At its core, the Arteon features a 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI four-cylinder engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and optional 4MOTION all-wheel drive, the Arteon delivers:
- 0–100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds
- Smooth highway cruising and responsive acceleration
- Confident grip in diverse road conditions
For global markets, the Arteon also offers an eHybrid plug-in hybrid option and a Shooting Brake wagon variant for extra versatility—though availability may vary in Kenya.
Car care tip: For turbocharged engines like the Arteon’s TSI, regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil are critical to avoid buildup and maintain long-term reliability.
Trim Levels
Volkswagen offers the Arteon in several trims, each with increasing levels of luxury and technology:
- SE: Leatherette seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate, 18” alloys, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- SEL: Genuine leather, panoramic sunroof, Digital Cockpit Pro, navigation, and premium finishes.
- SEL Premium: Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Fender audio, and advanced driver assistance.
- SEL Premium R-Line: Adds sporty styling with 20” alloys, R-Line bumpers, sport suspension, and exclusive interior design.
- Shooting Brake: Market-specific wagon body style with enhanced cargo space.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Arteon prioritizes executive comfort and modern tech:
- Premium materials: Nappa leather, brushed aluminum, and real wood accents.
- Digital Cockpit Pro: A fully digital driver display for customizable driving data.
- Ambient lighting: Multiple colors to create a luxury atmosphere.
- Passenger space: 41.2 inches of front legroom and 35.7 inches in the rear, with comfort for most adults despite the sloping roofline.
Car care tip: To preserve the Arteon’s premium interior, use a microfiber cloth and pH-balanced leather cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage soft-touch materials.
Cargo and Practicality
Even with its coupe-like roofline, the Arteon offers impressive cargo space:
- 27.2 cubic feet with seats up
- 54.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded
- Shooting Brake variant: Up to 59.2 cubic feet
The hatchback-style opening makes loading luggage and bulky items easier than in traditional sedans.
Exterior Styling
The Arteon stands out with a fastback silhouette that merges elegance with sportiness. Key highlights include:
- Chrome-accented grille with Arteon badging
- Standard LED headlights (IQ.Light matrix LEDs available on higher trims)
- Distinctive sweeping roofline with coupe-like proportions
- Dynamic LED taillights with integrated spoiler
This bold design gives the Arteon a unique presence compared to rivals like the Audi A5 Sportback, BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, and Volvo S60.
Safety Features
Volkswagen equips the Arteon with the IQ.DRIVE suite of safety technologies, including:
- Automatic emergency braking (Front Assist)
- Lane keeping system and blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go
- Rear traffic alert and parking sensors
Higher trims offer semi-autonomous driving features like Travel Assist, a 360-degree camera system, and automated parking.
Fuel Economy and Specs
- Fuel consumption: Approx. 8.5 L/100 km
- Fuel tank capacity: 68 liters
- Ground clearance: 5.5 inches (best suited for urban and highway driving)
Car care tip: Due to the Arteon’s relatively low clearance, be cautious on uneven rural roads in Kenya to avoid underbody damage.
Service, Maintenance, and Spare Parts
- Minor service: Every 5,000 km (air cleaner, oil filter, engine oil)
- Major service: Every 15,000 km (fuel filter, spark plugs, brake pads, ATF oil)
Spare parts are accessible through VW dealerships in Nairobi and other cities, though flagship-specific components like Digital Cockpit displays or fastback body panels may have longer lead times.
For buyers exploring reliable alternatives in the Kenyan used car market, auto24.co.ke lists several executive sedans, including Volkswagens, Audis, and BMWs, that cater to similar needs.
Driving Dynamics and Reliability
The Arteon balances comfort with engaging driving performance:
- Adaptive suspension (optional) smooths rough roads
- Precise steering with stable cornering
- 4MOTION AWD enhances grip in wet or rough conditions
- Proven 2.0L TSI engine with strong reliability when properly maintained
Like all modern cars, reliability improves with timely servicing and software updates.
Pros and Cons of the Volkswagen Arteon
What We Like
- Distinctive styling with executive presence
- Turbocharged performance with AWD availability
- Premium interior with modern tech
- Spacious interior and versatile cargo area
- Advanced safety features at a competitive price
What Could Be Better
- Limited rear headroom due to fastback design
- Infotainment system can be complex for new users
- Resale value slightly lower than premium rivals
Conclusion
The Volkswagen Arteon represents a smart choice for Kenyan drivers who want European executive sophistication without the hefty price tag of luxury brands. With its bold fastback design, premium interior, refined turbocharged engine, and comprehensive safety features, it delivers style, comfort, and performance in equal measure.
For the latest automotive news, car reviews, driving tips, and travel guides tailored for Kenya, check out automag.co.ke. You can also explore in-depth insights on electric mobility and car ownership trends at autoskenya.com. And if you’re considering buying a used executive car like the Arteon or similar alternatives, visit auto24.co.ke to browse available options in the Kenyan market.
