Volkswagen has launched the R versions of the Arteon and Arteon Shooting Brake in the United Kingdom, and they’re not exactly a bargain.
For the 2021 Arteon R fastback, the automaker is asking a minimum of £51,615 ($72,988). By comparison, one could get a BMW M440i (the regular faced one) from £49,440 ($69,913) in the UK, or an Audi S4 TDI from £48,960 ($69,234), both of which are a bit more powerful and have more desirable badges, if you’re into that thing. For the Arteon Shooting Brake R, you are looking at £52,435 ($74,148).
Also Read: 2021 VW Arteon Priced $1,000 Higher, Shooting Brake And R Models Denied U.S. Visas
The two sporty models use the brand’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 320 PS (315 HP / 235 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, and is connected to a seven-speed DSG and 4Motion all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring. Up to 50 percent of torque can be sent to the rear wheels, and in turn, entirely to the outside wheel when cornering, thus improving traction. The 0-100 km/h (62 mph) mark is passed in 4.9 seconds in both body styles, and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
The 18-inch performance brakes provide the stopping power, while both the Arteon R and Arteon Shooting Brake R are equipped with 19-inch ‘Adelaide’ alloy wheels. Complementing the design are the exclusive elements added to the front and rear, and the quad exhaust pipes.
Nappa leather upholstery with contrast blue stitching decorates the interior that otherwise features electrically adjustable front seats with massage function, heated steering wheel, extended shift paddles, stainless steel pedals and footrest, exclusive carpet mats and ‘R’ button. These are offered alongside the 10.25-inch TFT dashboard display, three-zone climate control, sunroof, 30-color ambient lighting, tinted rear windows, LED headlights and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving.
Customers can further bump the price with the optional 20-inch wheels, head-up display and Harman Kardon premium sound system.