Used Volkswagen Arteon for sale near Colchester

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 150
Average Price: Around £19,000

Volkswagen Arteon (2017-2024) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Super-stylish alternative to a Passat	Not as sporty as you might expect
Roomy for passengers	You'll pay for that styling upgrade
Covers big distances with ease	A BMW 3 Series is far more enjoyable to drive

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Arteon (2017-2024) is a refined flagship luxury grand tourer that slots above the Passat, rivalling premium competitors such as the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. Launched in 2017, it immediately proved popular with buyers seeking stylish alternatives to more conventional saloons. A mid-life refresh in 2020 brought subtle exterior changes, revised trim levels, and extra kit, whilst the introduction of the handsome Shooting Brake estate added practicality to the range. The high-performance R variant, available in both body styles, injects genuine appeal for keen drivers with 316bhp of turbocharged power.

Despite its streamlined appearance, the Arteon is impressively practical with a 563-litre boot (590-litres in Shooting Brake form) and spacious rear accommodation. The interior feels suitably upmarket with brushed aluminium trim, soft-touch plastics, and excellent fit and finish. Running costs are competitive thanks to efficient four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines, with the 148bhp TDI achieving around 50mpg in real-world driving. Whilst it lacks the driving engagement of rivals like the BMW 3 Series, the Arteon excels at comfortable, refined long-distance cruising with effortless composure and impressive refinement.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, well-equipped grand tourer that prioritises comfort and refinement over driving excitement, and those wanting a practical Shooting Brake with premium appeal at a competitive price.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising engaging handling and sporty dynamics, those seeking premium badge prestige, or buyers wanting powerful engine options beyond four-cylinder units.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Arteon if: You seek a stylish, well-equipped grand tourer prioritising comfort and refinement, or want a practical Shooting Brake with premium appeal at a competitive price.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise engaging handling and sporty dynamics, seek premium badge prestige, or require powerful engine options beyond four-cylinder units.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Arteon (2017-2024) is a compelling proposition in the luxury grand tourer segment, offering exceptional style, practicality, and equipment at a more accessible price point than rivals. Whilst it lacks the driving engagement of the BMW 4 Series or the prestige of the Audi A5 Sportback, its refined comfort, spacious interior, and competitive running costs make it an excellent choice for buyers prioritising long-distance cruising and everyday usability. The stylish Shooting Brake variant and potent R model further enhance its appeal, delivering genuine versatility and performance without premium brand pricing.

Read our full Volkswagen Arteon Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from April 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.