Get ready to say goodbye to Volkswagen Arteon

KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen has already discontinued the Passat sedan all over the world except China and now it’s Arteon's turn to follow suit. The automaker has confirmed the end of roads for the Arteon as it is set to revise the overall product strategy by phasing out the low-selling models.

The news of the Volkswagen Arteon came doesn’t come as a huge surprise as the sales of the sedan dropped by 69% last year in the US, which is considered as one of the brand’s key markets. The production of the car is expected to end by 2024.

Also read: Volkswagen electric vehicles saw a 23.5% increase in sales in 2022

With the discontinuation of the Arteon, the automaker aims to focus on other models that have the potential to bring more profits. “We will focus on a small number of – though genuine – Volkswagen core models. This will reduce complexity and deliver higher profits” said CEO Thomas Schafer. 

The revised strategy will help the German marque in attaining a sustainable 6.5 per cent return on sales by 2026.

Alongside dropping the Arteon, Volkswagen is also set to redefine its lineup with the ID.7 electric sedan. Globally revealed in April this year, the ID.7 marks a crucial turning point in the brand’s strategy. The introduction of the EV shows the brand’s commitment towards electric mobility, which is part of its broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the sustainable automotive industry. 

Volkswagen Arteon in Malaysia

After the discontinuation of the Passat, the Arteon is the only Volkswagen sedan offered in Malaysia. It recently received an upgrade in the form of the new IQ. Drive advanced driver-assistance pack combining features like Front Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Side Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Assist. The sedan is offered in a sole R-Line 4MOTION trim, priced at RM 299,990.

Also read: Volkswagen Golf R 333 Limited Edition revealed in Europe