2023 Volkswagen Artreon Review: Price, Design, and Performance Analysis

In a world where cars are meant to inspire passion and excitement, the 2023 Volkswagen Artreon falls short like a deflated souffle. Regular Car Reviews takes a critical look at this bakery special that seems to have spent too long in the oven. With a hefty price tag of over $50,000, this luxury sedan masquerades as an airport rental, blending into the background of traffic without a hint of prestige. The team laments the overcomplicated interior controls, particularly the infuriating capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel that demand more attention than the road itself.

Despite its lackluster appearance and confusing design choices, the Artreon does boast a powerful 2L turbo inline-4 engine borrowed from the Golf R, delivering a satisfying 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 7-speed DSD dual-clutch automatic transmission, this sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 in a brisk 4.6 seconds, showcasing impressive performance capabilities. However, the car's attempt at offering convenience features feels more like a child's half-hearted attempt at helping with yard work, with quirky behaviors like distinguishing between key positions in the front and back seats.

The Artreon's identity crisis is evident as it struggles to find its place in the automotive world, neither appealing to enthusiasts seeking excitement nor to those desiring luxury and comfort. Despite its strong engine and all-wheel-drive capabilities, the car fails to carve out a niche for itself, lost in a sea of sedans that offer more compelling options. Regular Car Reviews paints a picture of a vehicle that, while technically proficient, lacks the soul and character that make driving a truly exhilarating experience.