VW Is Cooking Up A VR6-Powered Arteon R With Over 400bhp

Wolfsburg has a prototype Arteon powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged VR6, and a production version could be on the cards

One question is asked persistently whenever we talk about the VW Arteon: why is there no V6 version?

The answer would normally be something about downsizing and/or emissions regulations, and the prospect of a six-cylinder Arteon has seemed unlikely, particularly when the range-topping 2.0-litre TSI model already puts out a useful 276bhp. But if you’re hankering after one of these curious uber VWs with more cylinders, we have some good news: a VR6 version is actually being worked on.

Speaking to Car Throttle at the launch of the new Polo GTI, VW’s product line spokesperson Martin Hube confirmed that VW has a 3.0-litre turbocharged VR6 in development, to sit above the existing 2.5-litre unit used for the Teramont, the Chinese-market version of the Atlas. It produces 404bhp, and there’s already a prototype Arteon fitted with it.

“I’m totally convinced that this combination is extremely nice,” he said, adding, “We’ve combined it with the last version of the Haldex [four-wheel drive system], where you can provoke a bit of oversteer. This is a real agile, powerful car.”

Unsurprisingly, it’s rather good fun on the German autobahn. “You can beat all the Porsche Panameras out of your way!” he said.

VW UK meanwhile said that the car - which is currently being “considered” by Wolfsburg - is unlikely to make it to the UK due to a “variety of reasons.” From what we’ve heard about the car so far, that’s a damn shame…