CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 40.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 155
Average Price: Around £17,800

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 and stylish five-door grand tourer that slots above the Passat, rivalling premium competitors like the Audi A5 Sportback. Launched in 2017, it immediately proved popular with buyers seeking an upmarket alternative to more conventional saloons. The 2020 mid-life refresh introduced subtle exterior changes, revised trim levels, and the addition of a practical Shooting Brake estate variant. In 2023, Volkswagen announced production would wind down, with the last UK examples sold in 2024.

The Arteon excels in comfort and refinement, offering impressive practicality with a 563-litre boot (1,557-litres with rear seats folded) and roomy interior with high-quality materials. It features efficient four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, delivering good performance and low running costs. However, it lacks the driving engagement of rivals like the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the badge appeal of premium brands. The Shooting Brake R variant offers 316bhp for those seeking more excitement, though the standard versions prioritise comfort over sportiness.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped grand tourer for long-distance journeys, families valuing practicality, and those wanting premium features without premium pricing.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising engaging handling, premium brand appeal, or those seeking a genuinely sporty driving experience comparable to BMW or Audi rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Arteon if: You value comfort, style, and practicality over sporting credentials, seek a well-equipped grand tourer for long journeys, or want premium features without premium pricing.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise engaging handling, premium brand appeal, or desire a genuinely sporty driving experience comparable to BMW or Audi rivals.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Arteon (2017-2024) is a refined and stylish contender in the premium grand tourer market, offering excellent value, impressive practicality, and comprehensive equipment. Whilst it may not match rivals like the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé for driving engagement or the Audi A5 Sportback for premium appeal, its combination of comfort, space, and affordability makes it an excellent choice for those prioritising refinement and practicality. The spacious Shooting Brake variant adds versatility, whilst the high-performance R model caters to those seeking more excitement without sacrificing everyday usability.

Read our full Volkswagen Arteon Review

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