10 Things You Didn’t Know About the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon

Since 1937, German automaker Volkswagen has been manufacturing quality cars that have proven to be both affordable and stylish, not to mention economical, safe, and fun to drive. One model produced by the Wolfsburg-headquartered companies is the Volkswagen Arteon, a model which was first introduced to the public at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show; it was brought to the North American Market at the Chicago Auto Show the same year.

Being a newer model, the Arteon may not be a car you are vastly familiar with, but we aim to clear that up right here and now, and what better way to do that than by means of ’10 Things’ list? We can’t think of a more attractive alternative, so we’ll proceed. Below you’ll find ten mostly unknown facts about the Arteon that even we were surprised to learn. We’re willing to bet that by the time you’re finished reading you’ll see that there is a lot more to this model than you would have bet on at first. It’s attractive, comfortable, and, well, you’ll just have to read on to discover the rest.

So, sit back, get comfortable, and realize a bit of new information about a Volkswagen model that is definitely worth a second look: The 2021 Arteon.

1. The Arteon Is Descended From the Volkswagen CC

As a matter of fact, it is sometimes referred to as the ‘CC’, even though it has been given a new name. Under either name it is considered their flagship vehicle . You may be wondering, then, if there are any differences between the two models; the answer is yes. The Arteon is a bit more ‘upscale’ than the CC, which was known for having an interior that was well-designed and looking a lot like a coupe (for a four-door); the car also ran well. The company’s goal with the Arteon was to improve on all of these points while maintaining the integrity of the model.

2. From the Outside to the ‘In’

One of the best things about the new Arteon is that the interior is much roomier than the CC…in fact, it’s got more rear seat headroom than pretty much any other car in its class. The cockpit has also been designed with the driver in mind, with easy accessibility to whatever function the operator is in need of. If the truth be told, the interior of the 2021 Arteon is about as close to classing as luxury as it can get without actually falling into the category. The fact is that the new Arteon, while being a true mid-sized car, provides as much, if not more, luxury than any other model in its class.

3. All That’s Great…But What About Gas Mileage?

When we’re keeping in mind the facts mentioned about regarding the interior and body styling, the final verdict is that for a luxury mid-size of its caliber, the Arteon gets very good mileage, indeed. New owners of this model can expect to get around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway …nothing to shake a stick at. This is actually another good incentive, because you already get so much when it comes to the rest of the car.

4. As Far As Safety Is Concerned…

There are many state-of-the-art safety features in the 2021 Arteon that anyone with half-a-mind for safety would be won over by. From the basics like safety belts and handgrips to technically advanced features that are proven to make your ride safer.

• Automatic Post-Collision Braking – Since accidents don’t always just end with the collision, it’s smart to have backup. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System will bring your vehicle to a halt if it’s still moving after impact.
• Rear-View Cameras – This wide-lens camera system allows you to get a broad scope on what’s behind you when your backing up. View your rear-view on a conveniently-placed flat screen display in the cockpit.
• Intelligent Crash Response System’, or ICRS – Basically, if the airbags are deployed, this system will cut off the fuel pump, start your hazard lights, and unlock the doors immediately. It thinks about all the things you don’t have time to consider when in a collision.
• The Safety Cage – This helps protect the driver and passengers by literally repelling force away from them in an accident. The ‘crumple zones’ in both front and back are designed to absorb energy generated by the crash, as well.

Always nice to have some of the major concerns become afterthoughts.

5. The 2021 Arteon Facelift

When you have a flagship vehicle that is working for you, the important idea is to keep it fresh. This can be a difficult thing to do, but VW seems to be displaying some fairly exciting ideas when it comes to the 2021 model that should keep heads turning for awhile. This year’s model of the Arteon includes the Arteon R, and aesthetically speaking, there is a bit of diversion from what you may be used to  when it comes to this particular model. To us, it seems to look a lot less like a fastback than before…sort of like it has grown a bit of a trunk. But the fact is that from a certain angle there are still reflections its CC heritage, and the Arteon of yesteryear. Specific differences include both exterior and interior chnages that make things much more comfortable and convenient, while looking better too.

6. Breaking Down the Trims

For being mostly a family-oriented sport vehicle, to put it mildly, the Arteon is aptly-suited for that and more. The following breaks down the kind of engine power you are going to get with the different trim levels of the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon, as well as some of the other differences between the sub-models:

• The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SE – This is the base model, or the standard model sold before equipment upgrades and the like. The trim level features a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that puts out approximately 275 horses. Working in harmony with that is an eight-speed automatic transmission featuring Sport Mode and Tiptronic®.
• The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SE with 4Motion – This trim level drops a notch in the mileage department, providing 20/29, city/highway, but you do get a bit more. It also comes standard with 4Motion, the all-wheel drive system created by Volkswagen. The SE doesn’t have it. Engine-wise you get the same thing as the SE, however: The turbocharged 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder and the same eight-speed automatic tranny.
• The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL – The next level gives drivers the same engine power and tranny, but features a number of extras that make things a bit easier, including memory-equipped side mirrors, a panoramic sunroof equipped with a power tilt and slide feature, and windshield wipers that are able to sense the rain.
• The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line – Same engine and transmission, but includes the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, R-Line badges and front bumper tagging, and 20” alloy wheels. XDS Cross Differential System and heated side mirrors are also featured.
• The 2021 Volkswagen SEL with 4Motion – Trim upgrade features include 8” touchscreen navigation system and 4Motion all-wheel drive. Comes standard with those and all others on previous trim levels.
• The 2021 Volkswagen SEL R-Line with 4Motion – Obviously, this trim level is the top-of-the-line for the 2021 Arteon. It comes standard with all the bells and whistles of the other levels, but with 4Motion and the R-Line badging thrown in. Very nice, and affordable, mid-sized luxury-type vehicle.

7. It Comes With Some Very Attractive Color Options

Colors will include, but not be limited to: Manganese Gray Metallic, Pure White, Urano Gray, Deep Black Pearl, and Pyrite Silver Metallic. As for the interior scheme, you can choose from Titan Black V-Tex Leatherette, Nappa Leather in Stone and Raven, V-Tex Leatherette in Titan Black and Moonrock, and Nappa Leather in Titan Black and Canyon Brown; there is also the option of straight Titan Black Nappa Leather. For those familiar with previous model years, if it seems that the options have shrunk as far as colors go you are somewhat right. It seems that there were many more to choose from before, but many have been foregone in favor of a much classier, more streamlined approach.

8. The Arteon R Has Been Tested on the Nurburgring

In April of 2020 the Volkswagen Arteon R-Line was tested on the track at the Nurburgring, meaning that is was really put to the limit. This may ease the minds of some sticklers out there, as it means that the Arteon is more than appealing to the eye and roomy. It also means that this is a car that stood up to pretty much all that could be thrown at it. Not too shabby…

9. More About the 2021 Arteon R

This high-end sub-model is actually getting quite a bit of attention. It does have a 3.0 liter, 6-cylinder engine available that puts out around 400 hp and goes from 0 to 62 in right around four seconds. As of early May, unfortunately, the Arteon R model was not expected to be sold in the USA, but at VW.com  the prices are all given in American dollars, so we’ll go with that.

10. Now, Let’s Talk About Price

And this is the point that it all comes down to in the end, isn’t it? So, since this is the case, let’s take a quick look at what you can expect the base price for each trim level to be.

1. Arteon SE: $35,995
2. Arteon SE w/ 4Motion: $37,895
3. Arteon SEL: $39,995
4. Arteon SEL R-Line: $41,745
5. Arteon SEL w/ 4Motion: $41,895
6. Arteon SEL R-Line w/ 4Motion: $43,645

Straight from the horse’s mouth, now you know the down and dirty when it comes to the new 2021 Volkswagen Arteo. Whether you are considering the base model or have your eye on the more exclusive R-Line with all the trimmings, there is certainly something here to fit your needs and your personal taste, not to mention your budget. No matter how it turns out, though, be sure that during your car shopping, and long after, you play it safe on the road, for both yourself and your loved ones. Happy driving!