Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake long-term test: report 4

The car Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake 2.0 TSI 190 R-Line Run by Alastair Clements, special contributor

Why it’s here We're big fans of Volkswagen's coupé/saloon mash-up, but is an estate version a niche too far?

Needs to Feel special enough to justify the price premium over a conventional estate, without sacrificing that all-important practicality

Mileage 7973 List price £39,550 Target Price £33,560 Price as tested £46,920 Test economy 34.2mpg Official economy 35.6mpg

5 August 2021 – Fit for the catwalk

There's a test that's not usually part of the rigorous What Car? schedule, but is particularly important to buyers of cars like the Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake – and perhaps less so for those considering the Volkswagen Passat on which it’s based.

It's the ‘look-over-the-shoulder test’, and can be carried out any time you park your car and walk away. Top marks are awarded if you take a lingering glance back, not because you’re worried you’ve left your mobile on show or the doors unlocked, but because it looks so good.

The Arteon passes with flying colours, every time. Even on a trip to the Goodwood Festival of Speed, in a car park surrounded by all manner of exotica, I still felt a pang at leaving it and a thrill at returning.

That feeling continues inside, too. My car’s R-Line seats with ‘Carbon/Nappa leather’ upgrade are a £1535 indulgence, but they look sporty and special.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here

Read more on our long-term Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake >>

Read about more long-term test cars >>