2022 Volkswagen Arteon Pros Vs Cons

Don’t overlook the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon. Although VW’s flagship sedan may not get as much attention as some other European models, it’s one of the segment’s most appealing options. Not only does the sleek-looking Arteon have a flashy exterior design, but it also focuses on keeping everyone comfortable. Furthermore, this car is now sporty enough to satisfy most driving enthusiasts.

What’s New for 2022?

By tweaking the engine to develop more power and installing an all-new transmission, Volkswagen has boosted this sedan's performance. Although prices have increased for the 2022 model year, some previously optional features are now standard.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon – The Pros

1. Offers a More Pleasing Performance

In the eyes of some critics, the Arteon wasn't quite strong enough. To help remedy this issue, Volkswagen tweaked the sedan’s turbo four-cylinder engine to deliver a more muscular performance. Output now stands at 300 horsepower and a brawny 295 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, last year’s model was rated to press out 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. A new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission has also helped transform the Arteon into a more responsive machine.

2. Smooth and Controlled Driving Character

The 2022 Volkswagen Arteon is not a race-bred sports sedan. Nevertheless, it's quite agile for a car that has a front-wheel-drive layout. Precise steering also gives the Arteon a good connection to the road. Standard adaptive suspension dampers enable you to pick from three different modes. When traveling on the open highway, drivers can activate the Comfort mode to enjoy a softer ride. Switching to the stiffer Sport mode makes the car more fun to drive on winding roads.

3. Great-Looking Sedan

Many people consider the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon to be among the most visually appealing automobiles in the segment. It looks far less conservative than previous Volkswagen models. A coupe-like roofline and a clamshell hood enhance the Arteon’s sleek design. Modern LED exterior lights also enable this car to grab your attention. For the 2022 model year, every trim receives VW’s popular R-Line appearance package as standard equipment. Sporty alloy wheels and an aerodynamic body kit are included.

4. Good Value for a Luxury Sedan

While the 2022 model is more expensive than before, the Arteon still proves to be a strong value when compared to some other models. Most people will be more than pleased with the Arteon’s standard equipment. Just a few of the niceties include heated front seats, a high-tech gauge cluster, three-zone automatic climate control, and a feature-packed infotainment system. Buyers will also appreciate Volkswagen’s two years of free scheduled maintenance, which will save them more cash over the long haul.

5. Roomy, Premium-Quality Interior

When it comes to interior quality, the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon can compete with pricier models from Audi and BMW. VW’s newly standard R-Line package also gives the cabin a more upscale look. Perhaps the Arteon’s best attribute is its comfortable accommodations. The sedan’s cushy front seats have no trouble satisfying tall passengers. Higher trim levels give buyers access to a massaging driver’s seat, which helps make long trips a bit more enjoyable. Meanwhile, admirable rear legroom helps the Arteon to satisfy families.

6. Excellent Cargo Space

The Arteon is a great replacement for a crossover. In fact, it can actually hold more cargo than some SUV models. A hatchback rear-end design enables this car to offer a whopping 27.2 cubic feet of storage space. Few cars in the class are more suitable for drivers who need to haul around extra gear. Just a few of the items that the Arteon can carry include baby strollers, videographer equipment, travel luggage, and home improvement supplies. An available power trunk lid makes loading stuff an easier chore.

7. IIHS Top Safety Pick

Passengers can trust the Volkswagen Arteon to provide a high level of crash protection. Excellent impact test scores enabled the sedan to receive an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Drivers will also appreciate the Arteon’s standard safety tech. When VW’s forward collision system senses a potential crash, it will intervene by automatically activating the brakes. Meanwhile, a blind-spot awareness system constantly watches for nearby vehicles that the driver may not see. Automatic post-collision braking and parking sensors come standard as well.

8. Fancy Digital Cockpit

Every new 2022 Volkswagen Arteon features a fancy Digital Cockpit. This customizable digital display promises to enhance the car’s driving experience. It uses a 10.3-inch HD screen instead of a conventional analog gauge cluster. From navigation directions to phone contacts, drivers can use the Digital Cockpit to quickly access key information while on the go. Because the screen is positioned directly in front of the steering wheel, it’s easier for drivers to keep their eyes on the road.

9. Recently Updated Infotainment System

Just last year, VW updated the Arteon’s infotainment system. Users praise the unit for its quick-responding touchscreen and straightforward operation. Unlike some other modern multimedia systems, it provides physical controls for easier use. With the arrival of wireless smartphone connectivity, it’s now simpler for drivers to link their mobile device to the interface. A Wi-Fi hotspot is integrated into the unit, which enables travelers to connect to the internet at any time.

10. Better-Sounding Harman Kardon Audio System

The sedan’s standard stereo system will leave some music fans wanting a more exciting sound. Luckily, VW does offer an amplified Harman Kardon premium stereo system. When streaming music, listeners will enjoy enhanced clarity. A total of 12 speakers will encompass the cabin. Even when turning up the volume, this system still sounds clear and powerful.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon – The Cons

1. Just One Powertrain Option

The Arteon’s new and improved powertrain works very well. VW has elevated the sedan’s performance without increasing fuel consumption. While this car now feels quicker than ever, it still lags behind some European rivals. There are other models in the class that offer a turbo six-cylinder engine. While the Arteon will be muscular enough for most people, serious driving enthusiasts may crave more oomph.

2. Warranty Isn’t As Long

When the VW Arteon first arrived a few years ago, VW covered it with a 72,000-mile powertrain warranty. Unfortunately, it now receives a 50,000-mile powertrain warranty. This means buyers will not have as much long-term protection. Many of the Arteon’s competitors provide at least a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Kia even gives the Stinger a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

3. Sloping Roofline Cuts Into Rear Headroom

The 2022 Volkswagen Arteon provides the necessary legroom for families. However, a sloping roofline does cut into its available rear headroom. This could be a concern for drivers who often travel with six footers sitting in the backseat.

4. Pricier Than Before

When comparing the new Arteon to last year’s model, car shoppers will notice a price hike. Volkswagen has increased this car’s starting MSRP by around $3,000. This could be an issue for folks who’re looking to stick to a set budget. Fortunately, some nice upgrades now come standard. The Arteon is also still more affordable than some premium models.

5. Opting for All-Wheel Drive Lowers Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has actually improved for the 2022 model year. Unfortunately, selecting the car’s optional AWD system results is a measurable drop in efficiency. The AWD-equipped Arteon has a government fuel economy rating of 22 mpg town/30 mpg freeway. By comparison, front-wheel-drive models have a rating of 24 mpg town/34 mpg freeway.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Volkswagen Arteon vs 2022 Audi A7

The 2022 Audi A7 is a fine luxury car. Like the Arteon, its hatchback design provides a great deal of cargo space. However, Audi’s luxury sedan is far more expensive. Car shoppers can save more than $25,000 by choosing the Volkswagen Arteon over the A7. While the A7 may be a bit more luxurious on the inside, its exterior styling isn’t more striking.

2022 Volkswagen Arteon vs 2022 Kia Stinger

Automotive journalists consider the 2022 Kia Stinger to be the Arteon’s top rival. Many people will love the Stinger’s 100,000-mile warranty and available twin-turbo V6 engine. However, there’s not as much passenger room inside the Stinger. Certain amenities, such as a massaging driver’s seat, are also not offered on the Kia Stinger.

2022 Volkswagen Arteon vs 2022 Acura TLX

The new TLX has garnered some good reviews. Many automotive gurus praise the TLX for its sporty performance. However, its backseat does not offer nearly as much leg space. Some drivers will also not enjoy using the TLX’s infotainment touchpad controller.

Conclusion

When shopping for a new luxury sedan, drivers should experience the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon. Volkswagen has remedied one of this sedan’s biggest shortcomings by updating it with a much better powertrain. Drivers can now have more fun while behind the wheel. The Arteon’s great cargo space also enables travelers to pack extra stuff when taking a road trip. Of course, many people will find the Arteon's bold exterior design to be especially eye-catching.

While the Arteon may not handle quite as well as a rear-wheel-drive sports sedan, it's still an agile driving machine. With an optional AWD system being on the table, folks who reside in snow-prone areas can stay on the road throughout the year.