Volkswagen teases Arteon

Volkswagen has released the first official image of a new top-shelf four-door 'coupe' that will replace the Passat-based CC when it debuts at the Geneva motor show next March and arrives Down Under in October 2017.

Also confirming it will go by the name 'Arteon' ('Art' describes the saloon's lines while ‘Eon' identifies it as a premium model," says VW), Volkswagen says it will be a showcase for the brand's technology and design.

Indeed, in the absence of a replacement for the discontinued Phaeton limousine, the Arteon is expected to be based on the latest Passat and will become the beleaguered car-maker's flagship model.

Volkswagen has also revealed a number of technical details, including a 206kW turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine driving through a six-speed DSG transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

So far there is no sign of the V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain that motivated the Sport Coupe Concept GTE show car that previewed it at the 2015 Geneva motor show featured.

Other confirmed details for VW's new 'halo' car include 19-inch alloy wheels, frameless windows, Matrix LED headlights, dynamic scrolling indicators, a new 9.2-inch multi-media screen, ventilated front seats and Nappa upholstery.

“Arteon is going to be synonymous with technology and value too,” said Volkswagen Australia’s General Manager of Marketing and Product Ben Wilks. “It takes the brand to a new level.

“Arteon in every sense surpasses any prestige car around or immediately above its price point. There’s standard kit on-board this Volkswagen the equivalent of which would set you back a great deal more if packaged in a luxury brand car or SUV.

“With our first in Australia head-up display coupled with Active Info dash, you’re looking at the most advanced driver interface to date. With its drivers assist systems Arteon takes a big step toward autonomy.”