The 2024 Volkswagen Arteon 4Motion, a stylish fastback sedan with a premium feel, gets 25 MPG combined, which means drivers will have to compromise at the pump. This isn’t a car for budget-conscious shoppers; it’s for those who prioritize design and a refined driving experience, accepting that efficiency isn’t its strongest quality.

City and highway performance

The Arteon’s 22 MPG city and 30 MPG highway ratings provide more detail. The city figure reflects the fuel-consuming demands of stop-and-go traffic, increased by the standard 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, which adds weight. On the open road, the Arteon’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder settles into a more efficient rhythm, allowing it to approach that 30 MPG mark. Drivers with longer commutes and more highway miles will naturally see better overall fuel economy than those primarily navigating urban environments. The 7-speed automatic transmission is generally well-tuned, but can occasionally feel hesitant in city driving, impacting efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Volkswagen Arteon 4Motion at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on local fuel costs and driving habits, but this represents a reasonable benchmark for the typical Arteon driver.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA numbers in real-world driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will all significantly decrease fuel economy. Conversely, careful driving habits, such as anticipating traffic flow and avoiding sudden acceleration, can help you get closer to the official estimates. Temperature also plays a role; colder weather often results in lower MPG because of denser air and increased engine load. The Arteon’s all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial in inclement weather, constantly draws power, impacting fuel efficiency regardless of driving style.

How it compares

The Arteon’s fuel economy is in a somewhat awkward spot within its competitive set. The Acura TLX, with its standard 2.0L turbo and SH-AWD, manages around 24 MPG combined. The BMW 330i xDrive, despite its sporting intentions, can achieve closer to 28 MPG combined. The Kia Stinger GT-Line, with its more powerful 2.5L turbo and available AWD, is rated at 25 MPG combined, matching the Arteon. For those considering the Arteon, weighing these alternatives, balancing style, features, and fuel costs, is crucial. See all Volkswagen fuel economy data to get a sense of the brand’s fuel efficiency as a whole and compare it with other automotive brands. You can also view the ARTEON MPG across all years to see how it has evolved since its inception.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling. The Arteon’s turbocharged engine consumes fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting is more efficient than prolonged idling.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels specified on the driver’s side door jamb.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel efficiency. Engage cruise control on long stretches of highway to avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations.

Limit aggressive driving habits. Hard acceleration and braking significantly impact fuel economy. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow to avoid sudden stops and starts.

Consider using a lighter wheel and tire package. While the factory wheels are aesthetically pleasing, they may be heavier than necessary. Switching to a lighter aftermarket set can reduce unsprung weight, improving both handling and fuel efficiency.