2023 Volkswagen Arteon Review: Stylish, Fast, and Practical
VW Arteon 2023: An Unexpected High-End Sedan
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is one of those rare cars that quietly delivers far more than most buyers expect. While luxury sedans from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz often dominate the conversation, the Arteon offers a surprisingly upscale experience without carrying a luxury-brand price tag.
Positioned above the Passat in Volkswagen’s lineup, the Arteon combines sleek fastback styling, a spacious hatchback design, and a significantly upgraded turbocharged engine producing 300 horsepower. It also comes packed with advanced driver-assistance technology, premium interior materials, and one of the most practical cargo areas in the segment.
For drivers who want the appearance and comfort of a premium European sedan without spending luxury-car money, the Arteon makes a compelling case. It may not receive the same attention as its German rivals, but its blend of performance, practicality, and value makes it one of the most overlooked sedans on the market.
Although Volkswagen has since discontinued the Arteon in North America, the 2023 model remains one of the most refined, practical, and underrated sedans the brand has ever produced.
| 2023 Volkswagen Arteon | Specs |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $44,305 |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-Speed DSG Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 28 MPG Combined |
| Cargo Space | 27.2 cu-ft (behind rear seats) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| 0-60 MPH | About 4.6 seconds |
Our Take
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon feels like Volkswagen’s best-kept secret. It offers much of the style, comfort, and technology buyers expect from an Audi A5 Sportback, yet it comes with a lower starting price and considerably more interior space.
What impresses us most is how well the Arteon balances performance and practicality. The 300-horsepower turbocharged engine provides genuinely quick acceleration, while the hatchback design delivers cargo flexibility that many luxury sedans simply cannot match. Rear-seat passengers also enjoy generous legroom, making the Arteon surprisingly family-friendly.
Its biggest challenge is not capability but visibility. Many shoppers overlook the Arteon entirely in favor of more recognizable luxury brands. The cabin, while attractive and well-equipped, also falls slightly short of the premium feel offered by Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz competitors.
Still, for buyers seeking a refined European sedan with strong performance, excellent technology, and outstanding practicality, the Arteon remains one of the best values in its class.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful 300-horsepower turbocharged engine
- Spacious rear-seat legroom for the segment
- Practical hatchback design with generous cargo capacity
- Standard IQ.Drive driver-assistance technology
- Premium styling inside and out
- Strong value compared to luxury-brand rivals
Cons
- Interior materials are not as upscale as Audi or Mercedes-Benz
- Premium fuel is recommended
- Higher trims become relatively expensive
- Infotainment controls can require a learning curve
- Limited brand prestige compared to luxury competitors
What’s New for 2023
Volkswagen did not introduce any major mechanical changes for the Arteon in 2023, but the sedan received several equipment upgrades that improve its overall value. Most notably, Volkswagen made its IQ.Drive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies standard across the lineup, giving every Arteon access to features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and forward collision warning.
The 2023 model also benefits from additional comfort-focused features, including a standard heated steering wheel and expanded availability of convenience equipment that was previously reserved for higher trims. These updates make the entry-level Arteon more appealing while maintaining the powerful 300-horsepower turbocharged engine introduced the previous year.
Overall, the 2023 updates focus on improving everyday comfort, safety, and technology rather than changing the Arteon’s performance or design.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon stands out in a segment crowded with traditional sedans thanks to its sleek fastback profile and upscale European styling. While it wears a Volkswagen badge, its proportions and design language give it a far more premium appearance than most vehicles in the brand’s lineup.
A wide front grille, sharp LED lighting, and clean body lines create a sophisticated look that remains modern even several years after the Arteon’s introduction. The sloping roofline flows smoothly into the rear hatch, giving the car a sportier silhouette than conventional midsize sedans while also improving practicality.
From certain angles, the Arteon shares visual similarities with significantly more expensive luxury models, particularly fastback sedans from Audi. Large alloy wheels, R-Line exterior accents, and distinctive lighting signatures further enhance its premium character.
Unlike many competitors that rely on aggressive styling, the Arteon takes a more understated approach. It looks elegant and mature without drawing excessive attention, making it an appealing choice for buyers who appreciate subtle design over flashy details. Even today, the Arteon remains one of the most attractive and distinctive sedans Volkswagen has produced in recent years.
Driving Experience
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon delivers a driving experience that feels more refined than most mainstream midsize sedans. Behind the wheel, it strikes an impressive balance between comfort and performance, making it equally capable on daily commutes and long highway trips.
Steering is precise and predictable, giving the driver confidence without feeling overly aggressive. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections with ease while maintaining composure through corners. Although the Arteon is not designed to be a dedicated sports sedan, it feels stable and well-controlled at higher speeds, reflecting its European roots.
On the highway, the cabin remains impressively quiet, with minimal wind and road noise entering the interior. The ride quality is smooth and composed, allowing passengers to travel comfortably even on longer journeys. Drivers looking for a more engaging experience can select Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response and transmission behavior, though the Arteon is at its best when driven as a refined grand touring sedan rather than an outright performance car.
Whether equipped with front-wheel drive or Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, the Arteon feels confident and secure in a wide variety of driving conditions.
Performance & Acceleration
Powering every 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a quick-shifting seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, this engine gives the Arteon performance that rivals several entry-level luxury sedans.
Acceleration is surprisingly strong for a vehicle in this class. Volkswagen estimates a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.6 seconds for all-wheel-drive models, making the Arteon noticeably quicker than many mainstream competitors and even some premium-branded rivals. The engine delivers its power smoothly and confidently, with plenty of torque available for highway merging and passing maneuvers.
The DSG transmission deserves particular praise for its rapid shifts and responsive behavior. Unlike many traditional automatic transmissions, it reacts quickly to driver inputs and helps the Arteon feel more athletic than its size might suggest.
While performance is impressive, the Arteon never feels overly aggressive. Instead, it combines strong acceleration with everyday usability, creating a sedan that is genuinely enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort or refinement. For buyers seeking luxury-sedan performance without stepping into premium-brand pricing, the Arteon remains one of the segment’s hidden gems.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Comfort is one of the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon’s strongest attributes. Designed to serve as Volkswagen’s flagship sedan, the Arteon prioritizes a smooth and composed ride that makes long-distance travel genuinely enjoyable.
The suspension does an excellent job of absorbing bumps, expansion joints, and rough pavement without transmitting excessive harshness into the cabin. Even on less-than-perfect roads, the Arteon remains settled and comfortable, providing a level of refinement that feels closer to an entry-level luxury sedan than a traditional family car.
Cabin isolation is another highlight. Wind noise is well controlled at highway speeds, while road and tire noise remain relatively subdued. Combined with supportive front seats and a relaxed driving position, the Arteon creates an environment that encourages long hours behind the wheel without fatigue.
For 2023, standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel further improve day-to-day comfort. Higher trims add premium features such as ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a massage function for the driver, enhancing the Arteon’s upscale character even more.
Overall, the Arteon delivers the kind of quiet, comfortable, and refined ride that many buyers expect from luxury brands, making it one of the most comfortable vehicles in its segment.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Step inside the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon, and it becomes clear that Volkswagen intended this sedan to compete above the mainstream market. The cabin features a clean, sophisticated design with high-quality materials, thoughtful ergonomics, and a premium atmosphere that immediately feels more upscale than most midsize sedans.
Soft-touch surfaces cover many of the key contact points, while available leather seating, metallic trim accents, and ambient lighting help elevate the overall experience. The dashboard layout is modern and uncluttered, giving the interior a refined appearance without becoming overly complicated.
One of the Arteon’s biggest advantages is passenger space. Rear-seat legroom is generous for the segment, allowing adult passengers to travel comfortably even on longer journeys. The fastback roofline does reduce rear headroom slightly compared to some traditional sedans, but overall passenger accommodations remain excellent.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable, especially in higher trims equipped with ventilation and massage functions. While the Arteon’s interior does not quite match the craftsmanship and prestige of luxury rivals from Audi, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz, it comes remarkably close considering its price point.
The result is a cabin that feels upscale, spacious, and welcoming, offering much of the premium experience buyers want without requiring a luxury-brand budget.
Technology & Infotainment
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon comes well-equipped with technology, even in its base trim, making it one of the most feature-rich sedans in its price range. Volkswagen has focused on delivering a premium digital experience without overwhelming drivers with unnecessary complexity.
At the center of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration without the need for cables. The system responds quickly to inputs and features straightforward menus that are easy to navigate after a short learning period.
Every Arteon also includes Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit Pro, a fully digital instrument cluster that replaces traditional gauges with a customizable high-resolution display. Drivers can view navigation directions, vehicle information, driver-assistance settings, and performance data directly in their line of sight.
Additional standard features include wireless smartphone charging, built-in navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, multiple USB-C ports, and voice controls. Buyers who choose higher trims gain access to a premium Harman Kardon audio system that delivers noticeably richer sound quality throughout the cabin.
While some competitors offer larger screens, the Arteon’s technology package remains modern, practical, and easy to use. More importantly, most of its best features come standard, eliminating the need to spend thousands more on optional technology packages.
Fuel Economy
Despite producing 300 horsepower, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon delivers respectable fuel economy figures for a performance-oriented midsize sedan.
The front-wheel-drive SE R-Line model is EPA-rated at 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. Models equipped with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system return slightly lower estimates of 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
These figures place the Arteon near the middle of the segment. While it is not as efficient as some mainstream family sedans, its fuel economy is competitive considering its strong performance and quick acceleration. The combination of a turbocharged engine, aerodynamic fastback design, and seven-speed DSG transmission helps maximize efficiency during highway driving.
One factor buyers should consider is the Arteon’s preference for premium gasoline. Although this contributes to its impressive power output and smooth performance, it also increases operating costs compared with some non-luxury competitors.
For shoppers seeking a balance between performance and efficiency, the Arteon delivers respectable fuel economy without sacrificing the power and refinement that make it stand out in the segment.
Practicality & Cargo Space
One of the biggest advantages of the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is its impressive practicality. While many buyers are drawn to its sleek fastback styling, the real surprise is how much usable space Volkswagen has managed to package beneath that elegant design.
Unlike most traditional sedans, the Arteon features a large hatchback opening that makes loading bulky items significantly easier. The power-operated liftback reveals 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which is considerably more than many luxury sedan rivals. Folding the rear seats expands cargo capacity to more than 56 cubic feet, creating enough room for luggage, sports equipment, furniture, or large shopping trips.
Passenger space is equally impressive. Rear-seat occupants benefit from generous legroom that rivals some larger sedans, making the Arteon a practical choice for families or drivers who frequently travel with adult passengers. Storage throughout the cabin is adequate as well, with conveniently placed cupholders, door pockets, and center-console storage for everyday items.
While some crossover SUVs offer even greater utility, few sedans in this segment can match the Arteon’s combination of style, passenger comfort, and cargo flexibility. For buyers who need real-world practicality without sacrificing driving enjoyment, the Arteon remains one of the most versatile options in its class.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is a major strength of the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon. Volkswagen equips every model with an extensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, helping the Arteon compete directly with more expensive luxury vehicles.
For 2023, the IQ.Drive package comes standard across the lineup. This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering technology, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam control. Together, these features help reduce driver workload and provide additional confidence during everyday driving.
The Arteon has also earned strong safety ratings from independent testing organizations. It received the highest recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlighting its excellent crash protection and advanced safety technology.
Higher trims add additional convenience features such as parking assistance systems and enhanced driver-support technologies. Volkswagen’s Emergency Assist system is particularly noteworthy, as it can safely slow and stop the vehicle if the driver becomes unresponsive after multiple warnings.
With its comprehensive list of standard safety features, strong crash-test performance, and advanced driver-assistance systems, the 2023 Arteon provides the peace of mind that buyers expect from a modern premium sedan.
Biggest Strength
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon’s greatest strength is its ability to combine premium-sedan refinement with exceptional practicality. Few vehicles in this segment offer such a compelling blend of performance, passenger space, cargo versatility, and upscale styling at a relatively accessible price point.
While many competitors force buyers to choose between luxury, performance, or practicality, the Arteon successfully delivers all three. Its 300-horsepower turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration, the spacious cabin comfortably accommodates adults in both rows, and the hatchback design offers cargo flexibility that most luxury sedans simply cannot match.
For buyers who appreciate the look and feel of an Audi A5 Sportback but want more interior room and a lower purchase price, the Arteon presents one of the strongest value propositions in the segment.
Biggest Weakness
The Arteon’s biggest weakness is its lack of brand prestige compared with established luxury competitors. Although it offers many premium features and delivers a refined driving experience, it still wears a Volkswagen badge, which can make it difficult to justify its price against entry-level luxury models from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
The interior is attractive and well-built, but it does not quite match the craftsmanship, material quality, or overall sense of occasion found in its premium-brand rivals. Additionally, because the Arteon remains a relatively rare vehicle, many shoppers overlook it entirely when researching luxury-oriented sedans.
As a result, the Arteon often competes against vehicles with stronger brand recognition, even though it offers comparable performance, technology, and practicality.
Competitors Worth Considering
The most direct competitor to the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is the Audi A5 Sportback. Both vehicles share a similar fastback design philosophy, but the Audi delivers a more luxurious cabin and stronger brand prestige, while the Arteon offers more passenger space and better overall value.
The Genesis G70 is another strong alternative for buyers seeking a premium driving experience. It provides sharper handling and a more luxurious interior, although it cannot match the Arteon’s rear-seat room or cargo capacity.
Shoppers focused on performance may also want to consider the Kia Stinger. Like the Arteon, it combines sporty styling with hatchback practicality and powerful engine options. While the Stinger delivers a more engaging driving experience, the Arteon offers a smoother ride and a more refined character.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA appeals to buyers prioritizing luxury branding and advanced technology, though its rear-seat space is considerably tighter. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Sonata N Line provides similar straight-line performance at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for value-conscious enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the Arteon distinguishes itself by offering a rare combination of upscale comfort, strong performance, and hatchback practicality that few competitors can fully replicate.
Trim Comparison
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is available in three trims, and the differences between them focus primarily on drivetrain options, luxury features, and premium amenities rather than performance. All models share the same 300-horsepower turbocharged engine and seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
SE R-Line
Starting at around $44,305, the SE R-Line delivers the best value in the lineup. It comes standard with IQ.Drive driver-assistance technology, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Digital Cockpit Pro, wireless charging, and a power-operated liftback. For many buyers, this trim includes everything needed for a premium ownership experience.
SEL R-Line
The SEL R-Line adds Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system along with additional luxury features and upgraded interior materials. It is the ideal choice for drivers who frequently encounter poor weather conditions or simply want the added confidence of AWD.
SEL Premium R-Line
At the top of the range, the SEL Premium R-Line adds premium leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon audio system, ventilated front seats, massage functionality, heated rear seats, and several convenience upgrades. It delivers the most luxurious Arteon experience but also pushes the price close to entry-level luxury competitors.
For most shoppers, the differences between trims come down to whether additional comfort features and all-wheel drive justify the higher price.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
If we were spending our own money, the SE R-Line would be our pick.
This trim captures everything that makes the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon appealing. It includes the full 300-horsepower powertrain, a generous list of technology features, Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive safety suite, premium styling, and impressive practicality, all while maintaining the lowest price in the lineup.
The SEL R-Line is worth considering if all-wheel drive is a priority, especially for buyers who regularly drive in snow or heavy rain. However, the SE R-Line already delivers the core Arteon experience without forcing buyers into luxury-car pricing territory.
For most drivers, the SE R-Line offers the strongest balance of value, performance, comfort, and technology.
Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is an easy vehicle to recommend for buyers who want something different from the typical midsize sedan or entry-level luxury car. It combines strong performance, premium styling, a spacious interior, and outstanding cargo versatility in a package that feels more expensive than it actually is.
Its hatchback design makes it more practical than many luxury rivals, while the upgraded 300-horsepower engine gives it performance that can genuinely surprise drivers. Add in a comfortable ride, extensive safety technology, and generous standard equipment, and the Arteon becomes one of the most well-rounded sedans in its class.
The biggest obstacle is not the vehicle itself but market perception. Many shoppers simply overlook the Arteon because it carries a Volkswagen badge rather than a luxury nameplate. Those willing to look beyond branding, however, will find one of the most underrated premium sedans available.
If you value comfort, practicality, performance, and value more than badge prestige, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon deserves a place at the top of your shopping list.
If you’re exploring premium sedans and luxury-focused SUVs, be sure to check out our reviews of the 2023 Jaguar F-Pace, 2023 Cadillac XT5, and our comparison of the Mercedes EQS and BMW iX. These vehicles offer different approaches to luxury, performance, and practicality while competing for similar buyers.
Final Verdict
The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon proves that a premium driving experience does not always require a luxury badge. With its elegant fastback design, powerful 300-horsepower turbocharged engine, spacious cabin, and highly practical hatchback cargo area, the Arteon offers a combination of qualities that few competitors can match.
What makes the Arteon especially appealing is its balance. It delivers impressive acceleration without sacrificing ride comfort, offers premium technology without requiring expensive option packages, and provides genuine everyday practicality while maintaining a sophisticated appearance. For many buyers, it represents a smarter alternative to entry-level luxury sedans that often cost more while offering less interior space and cargo flexibility.
The Arteon may not receive the same attention as its German luxury rivals, but that does not diminish its strengths. In fact, its under-the-radar nature is part of what makes it such a compelling choice. For drivers seeking an upscale European sedan with strong performance, advanced safety features, and exceptional versatility, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon remains one of the most underrated vehicles on the market.
Cardrav Rating: 8.8/10
FAQ
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon a luxury car?
The Volkswagen Arteon is not officially classified as a luxury vehicle, but it offers many luxury-level features, including premium materials, advanced driver-assistance technology, a digital cockpit, and a refined driving experience that rivals some entry-level luxury sedans.
How much horsepower does the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon have?
Every 2023 Arteon comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon fast?
Yes. The all-wheel-drive Arteon can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans in its class.
Does the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is available on SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line trims, while the SE R-Line comes standard with front-wheel drive.
How much cargo space does the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon offer?
The Arteon provides 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and more than 56 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it one of the most practical sedans in the segment.
Why was the Volkswagen Arteon discontinued?
Volkswagen discontinued the Arteon in North America due to declining sedan sales and increasing consumer demand for SUVs and crossovers. Despite its strong qualities, the Arteon remained a niche product throughout its production run.
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon worth buying?
Yes. The Arteon is an excellent choice for buyers who want premium styling, strong performance, advanced technology, and exceptional practicality without paying luxury-brand prices.
