Review: VW Arteon 2.0 TDI 150PS

Testing Volkswagen’s stylish new fleet-focused fastback in the UK

Fleet drivers will be among the first to enjoy the kudos: the new Arteon is aimed at the upscale corporate market, with a range of engines including a high-performance 2.0-litre TSI engine with all-wheel drive. Here, though, we’re testing the volume 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI, a derivative that will make up more than six in 10 sales.

The engine isn’t new. It’s already fitted to umpteen Volkswagens. No surprise to discover it’s smooth and efficient, then, rousing barely a murmur at the motorway speeds so many fleet drivers cover most of their miles.

We tested our car in DSG seven-speed automatic guise, rather than the standard six-speed manual. This is an excellent gearbox, changing gear quickly and smoothly – which helps disguise some of the engine’s lack of oomph. It’s pretty lethargic away from a standstill, which can be a bit of a hindrance at, say, roundabouts or junctions.

Best instead to sit back and enjoy the ride. Our test car wasn’t wearing the fancy 20-inch optional wheels, so was rather smoother and more cushioned over broken surfaces, fidgeting only occasionally over really bad roads. Light, remote steering reflects this laid-back nature, and even the relatively quick speed of the steering works more to make it easier to drive rather than adding any real alacrity.

What’s it like inside? Very spacious and comfortable, that’s what. Those coming to it from a BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Jaguar XE will be amazed at the space on offer, particularly in the rear. The boot is voluminous too, and although the tapered roof makes headroom a little snug for tall people, it’s still more accommodating than a much larger Audi A7 Sportback.

The tech-laden dash is impressive. Fitted as standard is a large 8.0in touchscreen sat nav infotainment system and 12.3in Active Info Display instruments, bettering any similar-priced alternative and adding a standout feature as a result.

All of which makes it a fleet-focused alternative well worth a look. It ticks all the practicality boxes, is good value for money and the efficient 148bhp TDI diesel is cost-effective, albeit not exactly quick. Indeed, this is the only thing that could make us err – and Volkswagen has an answer here too: later in 2017, a 187bhp 2.0-litre TDI arrives…

Volkswagen Arteon 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG

On sale Now
Price £34,305
Engine 1968cc, turbocharged diesel
Power 148bhp at 3500-4000rpm
Torque 251lb ft at 1750-3000rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
Kerbweight 1643kg
Top speed 137mph
0-62mph 9.1sec
Fuel economy 62.8mpg
CO2 rating 116g/km
Rivals BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, Audi A5 Sportback

Rob Adams is a writer for AutoCar