This is the all-new VW Arteon, the replacement for the CC which is going to be positioned above the Passat in the brand’s range as a premium offering.

Based on VW’s modular MQB platform, the new Arteon sits on a long 2,841mm (111.8 in) wheelbase, measuring 4,862mm (191.4 in) long, 1,871mm (73.6 in) wide and 1,427mm (56.1 in) tall.

The company is calling the Arteon a premium Gran Turismo, giving it a distinctive front end, a set of powerful shoulder lines and a low roofline among other design features.

“The athletic lines of the Arteon embody a highly functional overall concept. Form and function find common ground here in a progressive way”, said Tobias Sühlmann, responsible for the Arteon’s exterior design. “In contrast to classic saloons, the gran turismo offers more space and flexibility thanks to its long wheelbase, coupé-like fastback design and large rear hatch.”

The new VW Arteon will be available initially with six petrol and diesel engines, starting from 148hp (150PS) in the case of the new 1.5-litre TSI petrol, followed by the 2.0-litre TSI which is offered in 187hp (190PS) and 276hp (280PS) versions.

If you prefer a diesel engine, then you have to choose the 2.0-litre TDI engine, offered in the 148hp (150PS), 187hp (190PS) or the range-topping 236hp (240PS) version. The base petrol engine, as well as the 148hp and the 187hp diesel models are coming with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. The rest of the range gets a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic from the get-go while the more powerful petrol and diesel models will be all-wheel drive only.

The interior follows the familiar lines of the Passat, only in this case VW has thrown all their latest tech features, including the Active Info Display, as seen in the Golf and of course a range of their latest infotainment systems with a screen size from 6.5 and 9.2 inches in diameter.

And because this is a premium model, the Arteon also gets ambient lighting, with a strip running right under the air vent and continuing into the door panels. VW also claims that the interior legroom for the rear passengers is the best in class, thanks to the long wheelbase. The rear bench also offers seating for three, with the two outer seat positions to feature the ergonomic character of individual seats.

As expected, the Arteon will offer a wide range of driver assistance systems, including the latest generation of the company’s adaptive cruise control, Emergency Assist, Lane Assist, Proactive occupant protection and more.

VW’s move to push upmarket the new Arteon shows the company’s intentions to rival cars like the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe and the Audi A5 Sportback and also means that prices will be set at a higher level than the equivalent Passat.

We’ve updated this story with images from the Geneva show

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