After a protracted wait, we lastly received our fingers on a 2019 Volkswagen Arteon, the automaker’s new flagship sedan. It competes in opposition to the Kia Stinger and the Toyota Avalon, and it splits the difference between those models’ sport and consolation bias. Outside, the Arteon looks like a premium car, with some sleek styling cues borrowed from Audi. We tested the R-Line model and it comes with some extra sporty flourishes exterior that make it pop. Inside, supplies high quality is nice, and it appears to be like and feels like something within the luxury class - with no luxury value tag. Space is one other excessive point. It’s the spiritual successor to the Volkswagen CC and is roomier than that mannequin, especially in backseat house and in trunk room. But it’s not all about appears. How does it drive? It depends on where you drive it. Watch the video for more. Cars.com’s Editorial division is your source for automotive information and reviews. In step with Cars.com’s lengthy-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free journeys from automakers. The Editorial department is unbiased of Cars.com’s promoting, gross sales and sponsored content material departments.
What's New for 2019? The 2019 Golf R is basically the same as final year. We will not cover our affection for the Golf R's more affordable sibling, the close to-good GTI. But for patrons who want the ultimate Golf, the R-rated version—with commonplace all-wheel drive and a bunch more horses beneath the hood—is it. Purists might be pleased with the usual six-pace handbook transmission, but the non-compulsory seven-pace twin-clutch automatic is both faster and a better alternative for commuting. Likes: Brilliant mix of energy and agility, two excellent transmissions, communicative brake pedal. Dislikes: Traces of turbo lag at low speeds, exhaust be aware is partially synthesized through the automobile's audio system. The all-wheel-drive Golf R is motivated by a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four—making 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque—mated to both a six-pace manual or a seven-pace dual-clutch computerized transmission. Despite being less powerful than its direct rivals, the Golf R has plenty of pep, particularly when geared up with its optional automatic transmission, which is exclusive to this class.
The VW can rocket away from stoplights with the auto's straightforward-to-engage launch-control system, whereas snappy kickdowns let the R pull off fast passing maneuvers on again roads. The manual model is the purist's alternative and is endlessly satisfying to row by way of its gears. But it is inconceivable to disregard the dual-clutch's quicker actions and stronger efficiency. The R has a dexterous chassis that is equal elements comfortable and composed. As with the Golf GTI, it makes daily commutes pleasurable and diving into corners exhilarating. The R has a firmer suspension setup compared with its lesser sibling, and its normal adaptive dampers (Dynamic Chassis Control) add to its flexibility. The sportiest Golf fluidly transitions from submissive to aggressive. Its electronically assisted energy steering is direct, exact, and imbued with suggestions. Aided by brake-based mostly traction control that works to emulate a limited-slip differential, the R corners neatly and surprisingly flat at its limits.
The Golf R is fitted with beefy brakes as normal. The powerful binders actuate by way of a progressive and firm brake pedal to halt the computerized-outfitted R we tested from 70 mph in a solid 157 feet. Despite the additional weight and driveline drag of all-wheel drive, the Golf R bests its hot-hatch classmates with superior gasoline-economy figures. Aside from the a lot much less powerful Golf GTI, the guide Golf R we examined was the one automotive on this excessive-performance group to crack 30 mpg on the highway. Likes: Digital gauge cluster enhances modern aesthetic, loaded with infotainment features, impressive max cargo volume. Dislikes: Back seat that at times can really feel snug, slow touchscreen response occasions, cabin holds fewer loose items than prime rivals. As we've come to count on from the entire Golf household, the top-spec R model has a handsome however useful interior with glorious fit and finish, engaging materials, and tastefully upscale accents. In stark contrast to the financial system-car plastics present in the main target RS and the gratuitous red accents of the Civic Type R, the VW's cabin is a classy place that any driver or rider can admire.
Although dual-zone local weather management and a 12-approach power-adjustable driver's seat are standard, the Golf R does skimp on premium choices comparable to ventilated seats, reminiscence settings, and faux-suede accents. Volkswagen's Car-Net infotainment system has a cleanly designed interface and straightforward controls, but the touchscreen responds slowly to user inputs. Every model incorporates an 8.0-inch touchscreen with a bunch of normal features equivalent to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto however, sadly, not a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The Golf R and different high-efficiency sport compacts are appealing due to their enjoyable and useful nature. The multitalented Volkswagen held five carry-ons behind its rear seat and 15 with it folded; it also has a low load ground and above-average interior storage area. The Golf R's crashworthiness has only been evaluated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has yet to check this limited-version model. But compared with its monitor-prepared rivals, the Volkswagen is one among very few to supply driver-help expertise of any type. The Golf R has the very best complete guarantee in its class. Although Volkswagen doesn't provide complimentary scheduled upkeep, neither does any rival in this class.
