2019 Volkswagen Arteon: A Carimports.co.ke Review

The Big Picture

The Volkswagen Arteon is the stunning successor to the Passat CC. Production began in 2017 (First Generation - 3H7), making the 2019 model a mature example of VW's flagship sedan. It is a "Fastback" that aims to steal buyers from the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe by offering concept-car looks with the sensible running costs of a Passat.

Quick Specs

Ground Clearance 138mm
Tank Size 66 Litres
Power 190 - 280 HP
Seating 5 Seats

Engine Options & Model Codes

The Arteon uses high-output versions of the ubiquitous EA888 engine.

  • 2.0L TSI Petrol (Model: R-Line) RECOMMENDED
    Available in two tunes: 190 HP (FWD) or 280 HP (4MOTION AWD). The 280 HP R-Line is a rocket ship, doing 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.
  • 2.0L TDI Diesel
    Available in 150 HP or 190 HP. Excellent for long-distance highway cruising with 900km+ range, but harder to find in low-mileage imports.

Interior & Practicality

  • Hatchback Utility: Unlike the Passat Sedan, the Arteon is a "Fastback." The entire rear glass lifts up, revealing a massive 563-litre boot that is incredibly easy to load.
  • Rear Legroom: Despite the sloping roof, rear legroom is phenomenal—better than the C-Class or 3 Series. Headroom is the only slight compromise for very tall passengers.

Infotainment & Technology

  • Active Info Display: The digital instrument cluster is standard on most trims. It can display the navigation map right in front of the driver.
  • Frameless Windows: A carry-over from the CC, adding a touch of elegance every time you open the door.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

  • 2.0 TSI (190 HP) Economy: 12–14 km/l
  • 2.0 TSI (280 HP) Economy: 9–11 km/l
  • Maintenance: Moderate. Mechanically, it is a Passat. Service parts are readily available at DT Dobie or independent VW specialists.

Suitability for Kenyan Roads

  • Ground Clearance: At 138mm, it is low. The long wheelbase makes it prone to beaching on sharp speed bumps. Drive carefully.
  • DCC: Dynamic Chassis Control is often standard. In "Comfort" mode, it soaks up bumps surprisingly well despite the large 19-inch or 20-inch wheels.

Safety & Reliability

The Arteon features an "Active Bonnet" that pops up to protect pedestrians in a collision. Reliability of the 2.0 TSI is solid, but the water pump/thermostat housing is a known weak point (plastic tends to crack after 80k km).

💰 2019 Volkswagen Arteon Price in Kenya

The following are estimated showroom prices for fresh imports (duty-paid) in major Kenyan cities including **Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret**.

Trim Level Est. Import Cost Showroom Price Difference
Elegance (190 HP) Ksh 3.8M - 4.0M Ksh 4.5M - 4.8M ~Ksh 700k
R-Line (280 HP 4MOTION) Ksh 4.2M - 4.5M Ksh 5.0M - 5.5M ~Ksh 900k

The Ci Verdict

The Volkswagen Arteon is the best-looking car Volkswagen makes. It offers Audi A5 looks for a VW Passat price. If you want a head-turner that doesn't break the bank on maintenance, this is a brilliant choice. Just ensure you buy the R-Line for the full visual impact.

Meet the Rivals

Audi A5 Sportback

The premium benchmark. Better badge, higher price.

Check A5 »
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe

Better handling (RWD), but tighter rear seats.

Check 4 Series »