Volkswagen recently announced that it has refreshed its Arteon sedan for 2021 which kind of surprised us. The Arteon has only been available for sale in the U.S. for just under two years. Plus, many drivers still aren’t that familiar with its existence. Even though the Arteon is still being slept on, it’s a good luxury car option. Here’s the lowdown on the 2021 Arteon. 

Sharp, sexy style

The 2020 Arteon is a looker. But it’s definitely more of a cutesy model. For 2021, VW decided to make the Arteon look bolder and sexier with sharper edges and a flashier front bumper. And actually, the more we think about it, the more it makes sense that VW felt compelled to change up the Arteon’s style. Many sedans, even the popular ones are dying off at a rapid pace. Because of this, carmakers have to do more to make their sedans stick out.

What should help the Arteon be more of a standout in its class is its hatchback-type design at the rear. Unfortunately, we won’t be getting the official wagon-style version of the Arteon in the U.S. We’ll just have to make do with what we got. 

The Arteon levels up on the inside

There are grander changes to the Arteon on the inside. The 2020 model already offered a cushiony and attractive cabin, but VW has taken the 2021 version to the next level. The 2021 Arteon has an even more upscale vibe thanks to its new vinyl finishings, fancy dashboard display, and available ambient lighting. There’s a new steering wheel too.

The Arteon already had a great infotainment system, and it’s now even better for 2021. VW has updated the Arteon’s infotainment with its latest software. Standard infotainment features include an updated 8-inch display screen, navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. A 12-speaker stereo system and wireless charging capability are also new for 2021. 

One concern that’s been brought up by auto critics already though is the Arteon’s touch-sensitive controls at the steering wheel. Touch-sensitive controls over traditional knobs can be extremely distracting and even chancy at times. However, the infotainment system does feature traditional knobs. 

Same satisfying performance 

The Arteon only offers a single engine option, but it’s a good one. The 2021 model features the exact same engine as the year before it: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that creates a 268-horsepower. This turbocharged engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic which makes for a smooth riding experience. 

Front-wheel drive comes standard on the Arteon. VW’s signature 4Motion all-wheel drive is available on the mid-tier SEL trim and is a standard offering on the SEL Premium trim. There’s also a more powerful 315-hp Arteon variant as well as a plug-hybrid adaptation. The U.S. won’t be getting these options either though which is a bummer.

Pricing and availability 

We are pretty excited about the refreshed Arteon. VW says we can expect the 2021 model to hit U.S. streets in November. The carmaker hasn’t officially released the new Arteon’s pricing but with the new finishings, we expect it to rise from $35,995.