Summarize

“What kind of car is this – a Mercedes?” more than one observer asked as if the large VW gong he was staring at was a lie. People don’t think it could possibly be a Volksie – it’s got to be a Merc!

And yes – it is that good – next gen looks all that creamier through that violent hue, an attitude of suave, arty style and an unexpected presence thanks to a sleek, long look bristling with muscular little curves and nicks to suggest a quite athletic attitude. This diesel R-line adds to that – R for race of course.

It’s quick enough, but this TDI is far better a cruiser than a robot racer – even if it’s not bad at the lights. The road trip is its forte however – its hatchback gobbles up bakkie-like loads and it’s an absolute pleasure to cruise Arteon along long ribbons of tarmac – there’s a sense of freedom in that.

Plush-trimmed, leather rich and just as cool inside without forgetting it’s still a Volkswagen, Arteon’s angular and typically aluminium and piano black finish and trimmed cabin is beautifully snapped together as you’d expect from the flagship, it rides imperiously and sips diesel too.

Not quite in the GTI bracket, performance is still impressive on the run, torquey, smooth and luxurious all the way to wherever you are headed. Arteon also occupies a most interesting little niche – it’s due for some keen Korean company soon, but it will hold its head up very well against anything with a propeller, star or ring motifs on their noses. 

Most people think it’s one of those anyway… 

QUICK TEST: Volkswagen Arteon 2.0 TDI R-Line

Engine:          130kW 350Nm 1968cc turbo diesel I4

Drive: 6-speed automatic FWD

TESTED: 

0-100km/h: 8.13 sec   

0-160km/h: 20.67 sec

400m: 15.9 sec @ 144km/h

80-120km/h: 5.88 sec

120-160km/h: 9.19 sec       

CLAIMED:       

VMax: 220km/h 

Fuel: 5.6 l/100km

CO2: 145 g/km

Warranty/Service 3y 120K/5y 100K

LIST PRICE: R649 900

RATED:          83%