Audi
A7
Volkswagen
Arteon
Audi A7 vs Volkswagen Arteon: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Audi A7 comes out ahead of the Volkswagen Arteon on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
A7
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, design, and long-term reliability of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine (3.0T) and 3.0-liter TDI diesel powertrains. The A7 is consistently praised for its gorgeous, timeless design, exceptional comfort, refined handling with Quattro all-wheel drive, and practical hatchback body style. Owner feedback indicates high satisfaction with the vehicle's performance as a daily driver and long-distance cruiser, with specific acclaim for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and high-quality interior build.
Best version to buy
The 2016-2018 model years with the 3.0T supercharged V6 gasoline engine (CREC version, 333 hp) are most frequently recommended. This iteration is noted for having design revisions that address earlier potential issues like carbon buildup (via dual port and direct injection) and updated chain tensioners.
Known issues
- ⚠Higher maintenance and repair costs compared to mainstream brands. Labor and part costs at dealerships are noted as expensive. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump and PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure. Common replacement items typically needed between 60,000-100,000 miles (97,000-161,000 km). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Emissions system complexity (TDI models). The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, EGR, and associated sensors are potential failure points with high replacement costs, especially beyond 100,000 miles…
Arteon
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, with a clear generational divide. The pre-facelift models (roughly 2019-2021) are praised for their high feature content, including ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, and rear climate controls, but are criticized for a less powerful engine and older transmission. The refreshed models (2022-2023) receive strong praise for the upgraded EA888 Evo4 engine and 7-speed DSG transmission, offering significantly improved performance (0-60 mph/0-97 km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds) and a more engaging, sporty driving character derived from the Golf R.
Best version to buy
2022-2023 SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion: This configuration combines the powerful EA888 Evo4 engine and 7-speed DSG transmission with the highest level of equipment. The 2021 model year is also noted as a "sweet spot" for maximizing feature content (ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, rear climate) before some features were reportedly deleted in later years, albeit with the older powertrain.
Known issues
- ⚠Infotainment system glitches and software bugs: includes screen freezes, reboots, and unresponsive touch controls, associated with the MIB3 platform. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Unresponsive transmission/throttle in "Drive" mode: described as sluggish, laggy, and "trash" in normal driving mode, requiring use of "Sport" mode for acceptable responsiveness. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Long-term reliability and resale value concerns: general apprehension about complex turbocharged, direct-injection engine and DSG transmission longevity beyond warranty, coupled with poor depreciation in some markets (e.g., Malaysia).
The verdict
The Audi A7 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Volkswagen Arteon, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Volkswagen Arteon is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A7 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi A7 and the Volkswagen Arteon. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi A7 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi A7 is classed as a Liftback, the Volkswagen Arteon as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A7 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
The Audi A7 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 1.3-1.6 L/100km combined versus 7.7 L/100km for the Volkswagen Arteon, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A7 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi A7 than the Volkswagen Arteon. See the known issues comparison above.