2020 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line - The Audi A7's More Modest Cousin

The 2020 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line 2020 is yet another example that the traditional sedan still plays a role in the automotive industry and can meet all the needs of most drivers.

The name Arteon - whose correct pronunciation emphasizes the first syllable - is made up of two parts: 'Art', which describes the harmonious design lines and emotion of a sports car, and 'eon', which relates it from the same way that Volkswagen identifies its highest-end model of the German brand that is sold in the Chinese market, the Volkswagen Phideon

Its sale was delayed almost 3 years after its global debut at the Geneva Auto Show in 2017, as a consequence, among other things, of the restructuring and redistribution of resources to which the German brand was forced after the "dieselgate" debacle.

This is a brand new model that is not a direct replacement for the discontinued Volkswagen CC and is available in the United States with the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged TSI engine with direct gasoline injection technology, producing 268 horsepower and 258 horsepower pound feet of torque.

The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing an excellent driving experience in both urban and highway traffic.

One of its great advantages over the competition (i.e. Acura TLX, Infiniti Q50, Kia Stinger, Nissan Maxima and even the second generation Mercedes-Benz CLA) is that in all the options of the range, 4Motion AWD is available and highly recommended for potential owners who are planning on driving in snow and ice.

The test drive of the 2020 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line version through the streets and backroads of the Seattle area allowed us to enjoy a sedan with a luxurious design and an excellent response, especially when the Sport driving mode is activated. It comes equipped with the Volkswagen DCC adaptive damping system , which controls the rebound of the suspension independently on each of the wheels with adjustments that are made automatically in milliseconds. In a way that mimics the Audi A7 , the fastback style integrates a high degree of utility for everyday use, while the frameless door design reflects elements of a Grand Tourer-style car. The exterior image is completed by the tailgate that opens from the highest point at the rear of the roof to expose a large cargo area, even with the rear seat backrest in its normal position.

In the cabin, it can be equipped with the innovative Volkswagen Digital Cockpit system with a 12.3-inch screen and a long list of security, communication, entertainment and connectivity systems.

In addition, it has the start-stop system , which turns off the engine as soon as the vehicle stops and automatically starts it when the driver lifts his foot off the brake pedal, to improve fuel efficiency. This is becoming an increasingly ubiquitous feature as manufacturers aim to keep up with regulatory efficiency standards.

Safety equipment includes 8 airbags Automatic Post-Collision Braking System automatic emergency braking technology.

The 2020 Volkswagen Arteon is available in SE, SEL, and SEL Premium versions. The R-Line Package is available for an additional $1,650, which adds sporty interior and exterior design, including 19-inch wheels for $1,265 or 20-inch forged aluminum wheels for $1,765.

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Comfortable on both short and long trips

Effortless acceleration

Hatchback space and utility

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Gear-hunting transmission

Unreliable touchscreen and infotainment

Specs: Engine: 2.0L TSI Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Drivetrain: 4-Motion AWD

Power: 268hp Torque: 258 lb-ft Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic

Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Comb.): 22/31/25 MPG (AWD) Wheelbase: 111.9 in Curb Weight: 3,854 lbs (AWD) Base Price: $35,845 Price as Tested: $44,660 (incl. dest.)