The Volkswagen Arteon mixes practicality and pleasure in a unique package. Although SUVs may dominate discussions of sensibility, the Arteon offers another solution: a well-appointed hatchback with sporty handling, generous cargo room, and a sleek, sedan-like exterior profile.
The Arteon can be ordered with either front- or all-wheel-drive, and it’s powered by a 268-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. That combination makes for quick acceleration and a ride that blends agility with comfort. The Arteon we purchased had no trouble taking sharp corners at high speeds on our test track, and our testers found its firm ride to be pleasant even on rough roads. Fuel economy for the all-wheel drive model is 24 mpg overall.