2019 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line Review: Luxury Meets Performance
The automotive world welcomed an impressive contender when Volkswagen introduced the 2019 Arteon as its new flagship sedan. Positioned strategically between sporty performers like the Kia Stinger and comfort-oriented cruisers like the Toyota Avalon, the Arteon carves out its own niche with a compelling blend of premium aesthetics, surprising practicality, and engaging dynamics.
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Design That Turns Heads: Audi-Inspired Elegance
At first glance, the Arteon's design language clearly benefits from Volkswagen's shared resources with Audi. The R-Line trim we tested elevates this foundation with:
- A more aggressive front fascia with distinctive LED lighting
- 19-inch alloy wheels with a sporty design
- Subtle rear spoiler and chrome exhaust tips
- Flowing fastback roofline that enhances aerodynamics
This design approach gives the Arteon a presence that belies its price point, often drawing comparisons to vehicles costing $20,000 more. The fastback silhouette isn't just for show - it contributes to an impressive 0.27 coefficient of drag while creating the Arteon's signature profile.
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Interior Quality: Luxury-Level Appointments
Slide inside the Arteon and you're greeted with an environment that challenges premium brands at a fraction of the cost. Our fully-loaded test vehicle (priced around $47,000) featured:
- Nappa leather upholstery with contrast stitching
- Heated and ventilated 12-way power front seats
- Authentic brushed aluminum and piano black trim
- Customizable ambient lighting with 30 color options
The digital cockpit interface deserves special mention, featuring a 12.3-inch customizable instrument cluster and 9.2-inch touchscreen with gesture controls. While some competitors might offer more physical buttons, the Arteon's system proves intuitive after a brief learning period.
Spaciousness That Surprises
As the spiritual successor to the Volkswagen CC, the Arteon significantly improves on that model's packaging:
| Rear legroom | 40.2 inches (3.1 more than CC) |
| Trunk capacity | 27.2 cu-ft (hatchback functionality) |
| Shoulder room (front) | 56.9 inches |
The fastback design enables a massive trunk opening that makes the Arteon surprisingly practical for everything from grocery runs to moving small furniture items.
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Driving Dynamics: Comfort Meets Competence
Volkswagen tuned the Arteon to deliver a balanced driving experience that satisfies both enthusiastic drivers and comfort seekers. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder produces:
- 268 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
- 258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,950 rpm
- 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds (with 4Motion AWD)
The standard 8-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth shifts in normal driving but responds quickly when pushed. Our R-Line test car's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system provided confident grip in varied conditions, while the optional DCC adaptive damping (part of the $1,500 R-Line Performance Package) allowed customization from plush to firm with the turn of a dial.
Real-World Driving Impressions
On winding roads, the Arteon displays:
- Precise steering with good feedback
- Minimal body roll in corners
- Confident braking performance
Highway cruising reveals the Arteon's quieter side, with excellent noise isolation and a compliant ride that makes long journeys effortless. The lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control work seamlessly together for reduced driver fatigue.
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Technology & Safety: Cutting-Edge Features
The Arteon comes well-equipped even in base form, but our SEL Premium R-Line tester included:
- Volkswagen's Digital Cockpit (12.3-inch configurable display)
- 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment with navigation
- Harman Kardon premium audio (700 watts, 12 speakers)
- Wireless charging and multiple USB ports
Safety systems include forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, and Volkswagen's innovative Emergency Assist that can bring the car to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive.
How It Compares to Rivals
Against key competitors, the Arteon holds its own:
- vs Kia Stinger: More refined interior but less powerful base engine
- vs Toyota Avalon: Sportier handling with similar comfort
- vs Audi A5 Sportback: Nearly as premium for significantly less money
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Ownership Considerations
Prospective buyers should note:
- Volkswagen's 6-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
- EPA-estimated 22 mpg city/30 highway (4Motion models)
- Typical maintenance costs slightly above non-premium brands
- Strong predicted resale value for the segment
The Arteon represents an intriguing value proposition for buyers seeking near-luxury features without the associated price tag. Its combination of striking design, premium interior, and engaging dynamics make it one of the most compelling options in the $40,000-$50,000 sedan market.
Final Verdict
The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon successfully revives Volkswagen's premium sedan aspirations with:
- Head-turning design with premium details
- Spacious, high-quality interior
- Balanced driving dynamics
- Strong value proposition
While it may not match the raw power of some competitors or the brand cachet of luxury marques, the Arteon delivers where it counts for discerning buyers who appreciate substance over status.
