Buying a Used VW Arteon Shooting Brake

The Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake represents Volkswagen's foray into the premium estate market, offering a more stylish and distinct alternative to the ubiquitous Passat Estate. If you're in the market for a used large family car that prioritises aesthetics alongside practicality, the Arteon Shooting Brake is certainly worth considering. This article will delve into what makes this model unique, its practical considerations, and what to expect when buying one second-hand.

What is a Shooting Brake?

Before we dive into the Arteon specifically, let's clarify the term 'Shooting Brake'. Historically, a shooting brake was a term for a type of estate car designed to carry hunting parties and their equipment. In modern automotive parlance, it refers to an estate or wagon with a more raked, coupe-like roofline. Volkswagen's use of 'Shooting Brake' for the Arteon variant signifies its positioning as a more fashionable and upmarket offering, akin to how Audi brands its estates as 'Avants' or BMW uses 'Touring'. This stylistic emphasis is a key differentiator for the Arteon, aiming to appeal to buyers who value design as much as functionality, much like a bespoke accessory elevating a standard outfit.

Arteon Shooting Brake vs. Arteon Hatchback

The Arteon Shooting Brake shares its core platform and much of its design with the regular Arteon hatchback. However, Volkswagen has engineered the Shooting Brake to offer a slightly different visual and practical proposition. From the side, the Shooting Brake is distinguished by its longer, flatter roofline and a distinctive kink in the rear window. This design choice makes it appear lower and longer than the hatchback, even though its overall length remains the same. Interestingly, the Shooting Brake is actually 19mm taller than the standard Arteon, a subtle change that contributes to improved rear passenger headroom.

Practicality: Is it a True Estate?

The fundamental appeal of an estate car lies in its enhanced practicality over a hatchback or saloon. So, how does the Arteon Shooting Brake stack up? Volkswagen has given the Shooting Brake a boot that is just two litres larger than the regular Arteon hatchback, offering 565 litres of luggage space. While this might seem a modest increase, it's important to consider the context. This capacity is still substantial and more than you’d find in a car like the Audi A5 Sportback. However, if maximum boot space is your absolute priority, the Volkswagen Passat Estate, which offers more room, might still be the more pragmatic choice, especially for those who frequently transport bulky items or enjoy car boot sales.

Interior Updates and Technology

When looking at a used Arteon Shooting Brake, particularly a later model, you'll notice some significant interior revisions from the original version. Volkswagen has updated the cabin to align with its newer models. The prominent analogue clock that featured on the dashboard of earlier models has been removed. More notably, the physical controls for the climate control system have been replaced by a row of touch-sensitive keys located beneath the infotainment screen. This design, also seen in the latest Volkswagen Golf, can be less intuitive to operate while driving, requiring more visual attention than traditional buttons. While the Arteon has thankfully avoided the Golf's diminutive gear selector, the dashboard layout and air vents have been redesigned. These changes aim to move the Arteon's interior away from a mere Passat clone, creating a more distinct and premium atmosphere within the cabin.

What to Look For in a Used Arteon Shooting Brake

When purchasing a used Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake, it's essential to conduct a thorough inspection and consider a few key areas:

1. Service History:

A comprehensive service history is paramount. Ensure the car has been serviced regularly according to Volkswagen's recommendations. Check for evidence of regular oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and any major component replacements. A well-maintained car is likely to offer greater reliability.

2. Condition of Interior Touch Controls:

Given the shift to touch-sensitive controls in later models, check that these are all functioning correctly. Look for any signs of wear or damage to the surfaces, as these can be costly to repair. Ensure the infotainment system operates smoothly and without glitches.

3. Wear and Tear on Seats and Carpets:

As a family car, the interior may show signs of use. Inspect the seats for excessive wear, particularly on the bolsters, and check the carpets and floor mats for stains or damage. The premium aspirations of the Arteon mean that interior condition is a significant factor in its perceived value.

4. Exterior Bodywork and Wheels:

The stylish design of the Arteon Shooting Brake can make minor bodywork imperfections more noticeable. Look for scratches, dents, or signs of previous accident repair. Check the alloy wheels for kerb damage or corrosion.

5. Engine and Transmission:

Test drive the car thoroughly. Listen for any unusual noises from the engine or transmission. Check that the gearbox changes smoothly, whether it's an automatic or manual. Pay attention to the clutch if it's a manual.

Engine Options

The Arteon Shooting Brake has been available with a range of efficient yet powerful engines, typically including Volkswagen's well-regarded TSI petrol and TDI diesel units. When buying used, consider your typical driving needs. TDI engines are excellent for long-distance cruising, offering strong torque and good fuel economy. TSI engines provide a more refined and responsive driving experience, often preferred for shorter journeys and city driving. Research the specific engine fitted to the car you're considering to understand its performance characteristics and potential maintenance requirements.

Arteon Shooting Brake vs. Passat Estate: A Quick Comparison

Here's a simplified comparison to help you decide:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the Arteon Shooting Brake a practical car?

Yes, it offers a good amount of boot space (565 litres) and improved rear headroom compared to the Arteon hatchback. However, if maximum practicality and boot volume are your absolute top priorities, the Passat Estate might offer more.

Q2: Are the touch controls in the updated Arteon easy to use?

While they contribute to a cleaner dashboard design, some drivers find the touch-sensitive controls less intuitive and potentially distracting to use while driving compared to physical buttons. It's advisable to test these thoroughly during a viewing.

Q3: What are the main advantages of the Arteon Shooting Brake over a Passat Estate?

The Arteon Shooting Brake's primary advantage is its significantly more stylish and premium design. It aims to offer a more visually appealing package for those who want something a bit more special than a standard estate car.

Q4: Are there any known reliability issues with the Arteon Shooting Brake?

Like any car, reliability can vary by model year and engine. However, Volkswagen generally produces reliable vehicles. Regular maintenance and a good service history are key to ensuring the longevity of a used Arteon Shooting Brake.

Q5: Can I find a used Arteon Shooting Brake easily across the UK?

Yes, through a network of trusted dealers, finding a second-hand Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake across the UK is achievable. Websites and dealership inventories will list available models, allowing you to search for the right specifications and location.

In conclusion, the used Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake is a compelling option for those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and reasonable practicality in a large family car. While it may not offer the sheer volume of a traditional estate like the Passat, its distinctive design and premium interior make it a desirable choice for buyers who appreciate automotive aesthetics. By paying close attention to service history and the condition of key components, you can find a fantastic used Arteon Shooting Brake that will serve you well.