Volkswagen Arteon I (3H7) (2017–2025) (2017 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The Volkswagen Arteon (Generation I, internal code 3H7) was introduced in 2017 as the spiritual successor to the Passat CC. Positioned as Volkswagen's flagship internal combustion engine (ICE) fastback, it sits above the Passat on a stretched version of the MQB platform. It combines striking, aggressive styling with immense practicality, thanks to its large rear hatch and class-leading rear legroom. In 2020, the Arteon received a mid-cycle facelift (introducing the MIB3 infotainment system and upgraded interior materials) alongside the highly praised 'Shooting Brake' estate version. A high-performance 'R' variant (320 PS) and a Plug-in Hybrid (eHybrid) were also added to the lineup. Overall, the Arteon is a highly accomplished, comfortable, and reliable grand tourer, particularly when equi

✅ Strengths

Stunning exterior design that ages exceptionally well, especially in R-Line trim.
Cavernous interior space with class-leading rear legroom and a massive, practical boot (hatchback/Shooting Brake).
Highly reliable and potent 2.0 TSI (EA888) petrol engines.
Excellent ride quality and body control when equipped with DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control).
High-quality, logical interior ergonomics (especially pre-facelift with physical climate controls).

⚠️ Weaknesses

Pre-facelift interior feels too identical to the cheaper Passat, lacking premium flair.
Frameless doors can cause wind noise at high speeds and windows may freeze shut in harsh winters.
MIB3 Infotainment system (2020+ facelift) is prone to software glitches, freezing, and slow boot times.
Capacitive touch steering wheel buttons (facelift) are less intuitive than physical buttons.
Travel Assist steering wheel sensors frequently fail, requiring a complete steering wheel replacement.

🎯 Verdict

The Volkswagen Arteon is a brilliant, underrated grand tourer that offers Audi A5 levels of style and performance with Skoda Superb levels of practicality. If you are looking for a petrol model, the 2.0 TSI (EA888) is the absolute sweet spot—it is robust, highly tunable, and generally very reliable, provided you keep an eye on the thermostat housing. The 2020+ facelift models look better inside but suffer from annoying capacitive steering wheel buttons and MIB3 software bugs. To maximize reliability, seek a well-maintained 2.0 TSI, ensure the DSG/Haldex services are documented, and verify that the Travel Assist steering wheel issue has already been addressed under warranty.