Plug-in hybrid drivetrain for Volkswagen Arteon

Volkswagen has said that its Arteon is now available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The system comprises a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine supported by an electric motor, together providing a peak power output of 218 PS and torque of 400 Nm.

The new plug-in hybrid drivetrain is supported by a 13 kWh battery which can provide an electric-only range of up to 39 miles.

The enhanced Arteon range is now available to order in over 20 configurations, split equally between the fastback and Shooting Brake models, with the new hybrid option now available across both body styles. Two equipment lines remain available – Elegance and R-Line – with the latest hybrid drivetrain available on both. The Arteon R with 320 PS and 4MOTION will arrive in due course for both body types.

The battery in the new eHybrid can be charged in five hours using a domestic 3-pin plug. This time reduces to 3hrs 33mins when using 3.6kW AC charger. Energy can also be recovered while driving, this function being programmable via the infotainment system. In this way battery power can be conserved if, for example, the last part of a journey is in a low-emission zone.

Lisa Hartley, Arteon Product Manager at Volkswagen UK, said: “We are really excited to be adding an electrified model to the Arteon range and these eHybrid models are ready to impress with their own distinctive styling and high levels of efficiency. With an electric-only range of up to 39 miles we expect many customers will be able to achieve zero-emissions driving for most day-to-day trips.”

Prices start at £39,905 OTR RRP for the fastback in Elegance trim.