The 2019 VW Arteon is the latest addition to the Volkswagen model lineup — and it impresses on many levels with its sleek styling, powerful engine, agile handling, comfortable and roomy cabin, and advanced technologies. In this 2019 Volkswagen Arteon vs 2018 Chevrolet Malibu comparison, we show how the new Arteon outshines the midsize sedan competition.
The 2019 VW Arteon easily outmuscles the 2018 Chevy Malibu. It comes equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder TSI engine, which churns out an impressive 268 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the 1.5-liter 4-cylinder base engine in the Malibu only manages 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Arteon has the more advanced transmission, with the 8-speed automatic, compared to the 6-speed automatic for the Malibu. Also, for confident traction and handling, all Arteon models offer the available 4Motion all-wheel drive system. The Malibu doesn't offer an all-wheel drive system.
2019 Volkswagen Arteon | VS | 2018 Chevrolet Malibu |
268-hp | Base Engine Horsepower | 160-hp |
258 lb-ft | Base Engine Torque | 184 lb-ft |
Available | All-Wheel Drive | No |
6-years/72,000-miles bumper-to-bumper | Warranty Coverage | 3-years/36,000-miles basic; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain |
Another strength of the VW Arteon is its wide array of premium features. For the vehicle exterior, this includes LED headlights and taillights, a rear decklid spoiler, and frameless side windows. Inside the cabin, you can enjoy such features as the three-zone Climatronic® automatic climate control system, leatherette seating, heated front seats, a massaging driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, and the 8" touchscreen infotainment system.
Volkswagen infused the Arteon with a high level of safety, especially with the plethora of advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies. This includes the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and available Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor, and Overhead View Camera. And for even more assurance, the Arteon has a 6-years/72,000-miles bumper-to-bumper warranty. In comparison, the Malibu only has a 3-years/36,000-miles basic warranty and 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain warranty.