Revealing the tech secrets of the Volkswagen Arteon (sponsored)

These days it's almost impossible to keep technology out of your everyday life, so it's more important than ever that it helps rather than frustrates. Particularly in the car, you want technology that's straightforward and easy to use, as well as being cutting-edge.

In the Arteon, Volkswagen’s all-new five-door fastback, you get a wide range of functions and information at hand, without things becoming too confusing or overwhelming. Sit into the car and among the first features to catch your eye will probably be the Active Info Display, found where more traditional analogue dials are usually located. 

This is a multifunction screen that can be programmed to show key information right in front of you – from sat-nav direction to the current radio channel or your speed. It's all operated from controls located on the steering wheel, allowing you to maintain focus on the road.

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Offering even more immediate information is the Head-up Display, an optional feature on the Arteon that places key information in your line of vision while driving, keeping you abreast of things like sat-nav directions, the current speed limit and your current speed without the need to shift your gaze from the road.

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Your vision is taken care of when it gets dark, too, thanks to the Arteon's advanced lighting systems. Dynamic Light Assist, which is fitted as standard, ensures maximum illumination of the road ahead by taking automatic control of the main beam function. And another standard feature, Predictive Dynamic Cornering Lighting, illuminates corners ahead before you've even begun to turn the steering wheel.

Connectivity is all-important in cars these days and the Arteon uses this to full effect, taking care of numerous functions in the process. The Car-Net Security & Service function puts you in contact with the emergency services should you need it, as well as reminding you of the less urgent but still important servicing requirements for your car. Car-Net App-Connect, meanwhile, displays your smartphone's key functions on the Arteon's large central dashboard screen and is compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

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Music streaming from your phone is also possible thanks to that system, and you can ensure the best possible listening experience by specifying the optional Dynaudio speakers for your Arteon. This Danish firm is known for supplying professional-grade speakers to top-end recording studios and has designed a bespoke system perfectly attuned to the Arteon's stylish interior, guaranteeing great sound quality as you travel. 

The boot of a car may not seem a likely candidate for technological improvements, but the Arteon makes life easier here, too. An optional easy-option function allows you to simply flick your foot under the rear bumper, while there's also a time-delayed easy-close feature that will close the boot securely once you've finished loading and unloading, too. 

Taken together, this impressive suite of cutting-edge technology makes living with the Volkswagen Arteon both simple and satisfying. Everyday stresses and strains are forgotten and travel becomes a relaxing experience to savour.

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