316bhp performance estate heads up new sleek executive
The updated Arteon set to go on sale in the autumn was previously only offered in a fastback body style launched back in 2017, now a Shooting Brake variant has been added to the line-up which features a sleek design from the B-pillars back, with an prolonged roofline, bulging arches over the rear wheels and an angled tailgate giving it a sharp look.
Both models are set to be launched early next year, with the R variant expanding Volkswagens R performance division. The top spec R will use VW’s EA288 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine now in its fourth evolution, generating 316bhp and 310lb ft, along with seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and an updated version of the 4Motion four-wheel-drive system.
Also integrated is a new R Performance Torque Vectoring System, which is said to have been inspired by related systems used on racing cars, which can bias up to 100% of the engine's power to either axle or any four wheels within milliseconds, which makes the Arteon more nimble. Torque delivery is judged by a mixture of steering direction, acceleration input, yaw rate and speed.
The new Arteon eHybrid uses a plug-in hybrid 154bhp 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine and a 113bhp electric motor, which combined make an output of 215bhp, the power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Electric-only range is available for 33 miles and can run at speeds of up to 87mph. Available in both fastback and shooting break body styles.
The engine line-up is identical to the pre-facelifted model with turbo petrol and two diesel engines. The petrol power ranges from 187bhp to 276bhp, the former sends its drive to the front wheels through a six-speed manual and the latter through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic, with four-wheel drive. While the 148bhp and 197bhp diesels are fitted with (SCR), a modernised selective catalytic reduction filter and a new AdBlue system, which Volkswagen states decreases NOx emissions by around 80%.
The remodelled Arteon gathers a bundle of design changes, which comprises of a new front grille, new LED headlights and an array of new alloy wheel designs ranging from 18in to 20in. There are four specs to choose from, Basic, Elegance, R-Line and R. Performance models feature R styling hints, including a sportier front bumper with hefty cooling ducts, blue brake calipers, the traditional four chrome exhaust pipes and 20in 'performance' alloys.
Inside the dashboard has been redesigned with a new sleek upper section, a 10in digital instrument display as standard, a new multifunction steering wheel and VW's latest infotainment system, with a standard 8.0in or optional 9.2in touchscreen giving the Arteon a completely new and very sophisticated interior, in which basically it’s a VW Touareg interior.
Standard equipment comprises of a new multifunction steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls, illuminated trim panels and digital air conditioning controls. black carbon trim is added to R models, leather sports seats and an additional Race driving mode, Elegance and R-Line ranges feature stainless-steel footrests, a sports steering wheel and velour/leather seats.
