What’s New for 2024?
The updates for 2024 are minor. The biggest change is the discontinuation of the base SE R-Line FWD trim, meaning every Arteon now comes standard with all-wheel drive via the 4Motion system. If you’ve been following the model, you’ll recall the more substantial refreshes in 2021 (exterior and interior styling) and 2022 (upgraded engine producing 300 hp).
Design: Something Special
The Arteon stands out in its class with distinctive styling. It doesn’t shout for attention but quietly commands it with sophisticated lines. Volkswagen has crafted a car that looks and feels premium without carrying an exorbitant price. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the quick 0-60 mph sprint in about 5 seconds, making it agile and fun on highways like I-95 or the Pacific Coast Highway.
How About Comfort?
Inside, the Arteon feels upscale, though it doesn’t quite reach the opulence of ultra-luxury rivals. Materials are high quality, but the infotainment screen feels small by today’s standards, and the heavy reliance on touch-sensitive controls can be frustrating. Overall, though, it remains user-friendly and comfortable for daily driving.
Engine and Fuel Economy
All 2024 Arteons are powered by a single engine option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 hp, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at around 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. While hybrids like the Toyota Crown are more efficient, these figures are respectable for the performance on offer.
Safety at the Top Level
The Arteon isn’t just attractive and quick—it’s also exceptionally safe. It earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award in 2022 thanks to strong crash performance and excellent headlights. Standard active safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The top SEL Premium trim adds a 360-degree camera and even more convenience options.
Plenty of Space for Everyone
The Arteon impresses with its practicality. Unlike traditional sedans, it features a fastback hatchback design that provides generous cargo space. Rear-seat passengers enjoy ample legroom and headroom, making long trips comfortable even for taller adults.
What About Pricing?
The Arteon is among the priciest models in Volkswagen’s U.S. lineup, second only to the top-trim Atlas. Compared to rivals like the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Audi A5 Sportback, it undercuts them slightly while offering more standard equipment—though the German luxury badges carry their own prestige appeal.
Approximate market price in the United States: $45,000–$52,000 depending on trim and options.
Which Trim Is Best?
For 2024, buyers choose between SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line. If your budget allows, go for the Premium—it adds ventilated and massaging front seats, heated rear seats, the 360-degree camera, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. For roughly $3,500 more, it feels like a worthwhile upgrade.
