KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM)'s face-lifted Arteon R-Line 4Motion flagship model will be shaking up the premium executive car segment with its offering of style, class-leading performance and an enticing entry price of RM247,670 with SST exemption.
Locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, the Arteon, which was introduced via an online launch, commands presence with its assertive clamshell hood and chrome grille featuring a continuous light strip with signature LED headlights and new air intakes.
At the rear, the LED taillight cluster adds character to the car's sloping rear design that is elevated with R-Line styling, which now carries the new R logo.
The Arteon is expected to go up against the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The sleek-looking model is the ideal all-rounder, offering the flexibility of different driving needs as it is the Volkswagen model to enjoy for hard, sporty driving or long cruising journeys, whether alone or with the family.
Under the bonnet is a revised 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine that produces 280PS with 350Nm of torque.
Paired with a seven-speed wet clutch DSG direct shift gearbox, the fastback can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 5.6 seconds.
Otherwise running on front wheel-drive drive, its 4Motion all-wheel drive system delivers power to the rear wheels when required for better traction and control on the road.
The interior is complemented by R-Line silver trim and new steering wheel, and comes with ErgoComfort seats in Nappa Carbon leather and for the driver, a 14-way adjustment options and massage function provide additional comfort.
Drivers can customise their ride with the Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) featuring up to 15 selectable increments and five different driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual.
Fuel efficiency is at approximately 7.4 litres of fuel per 100km of driving.
The new 3-zone ‘Climatronic’ air conditioning is also controlled via a touch-sensitive control panel.
The high-resolution 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit displays key information and the driver gets access to driving data with six optional screen views and over 30 combination options, including 2D and 3D navigation and a full 100% map view.
The 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system comes with voice and gesture control and supports wireless App-Connect to Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
The touchscreen also features configurable split screen views.
Key functions are available right at the driver’s fingertips, and connectivity is further refined with haptic touch buttons on the multifunction steering wheel that delivers feedback with flawless accuracy.
The luxurious interior is enhanced by ambient lighting with a selection of 30 colours with adjustable intensity.
The Arteon also gets a list of driver assistance system which includes Lane Assist, Side Assist, and Driver Alert system to make every journey safe and secure.
The Rear Cross Traffic Alert warns the driver while on reverse of incoming objects at angle of 180 degrees and up to 50m up to speeds of 12kph.
The 360° Area View system uses four strategically placed cameras to project a 360° view, effectively allowing the driver to view his surroundings for overall parking convenience.
The display, via Discover Pro is customisable to full or split views.
Other world-class safety features include Post Collision Braking System that prevents a second collision; Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) that takes preventive measures during an accident by cutting fuel supply, unlocking doors and switching on hazard lights; and Electronic Different Lock (XDS) improves traction and reduces understeer.
Also standard are Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Active Bonnet for pedestrian protection, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Manoeuvre Braking that automatically applies brakes when it senses an object at speeds of up to 10kph.
Its wide-opening rear hatch opens to a 563-litre luggage compartment, which is best-in-class.
Additionally, the Easy Open and Easy Close function provides hands-free opening and delayed closing of the boot, giving the driver
freedom to remove items using both hands with ease.
Available colours are Manganese Grey, Lapiz Blue and Pyrite Silver with two pearl-effect of Deep Black and Oryx White.
Also included are three years free maintenance, five years unlimited mileage warranty and five years roadside assistance.
VPCM managing director Erik Winter said:
“The Arteon is arguably the most beautiful model in our line-up - and matched with impressive performance and interior refinement, it isn’t just all good looks.
“Furthermore, it is currently offered with sales tax exemption, and so I am confident that the new Arteon R-Line 4Motion will be a best-seller because it is truly unique and there isn’t anything like it in the market,” he said.
Bookings for the new Arteon can be made at the Volkswagen eShowroom, which is open 24 hours and is always accessible.
