2023 Volkswagen Arteon SEL: A Unique VIP Inspired Euro Build

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Colan Medlin - 2023 Volkswagen Arteon SEL

Instagram: @CursedEuro

Performance Stats:448 hp 443 tq. 

A Sailor’s Journey to Automotive Passion

Hi, I’m Colan Medlin, a US Navy sailor working in aviation. While my career keeps me airborne, my heart has always been on the ground with cars. From racing Hot Wheels and building mini bikes as a kid to working on full-scale cars as an adult, my passion for automobiles has grown steadily over the years.

Living in Japan early in my Navy career sparked my journey into the car scene, and today, I proudly own a 2023 Volkswagen Arteon SEL. This unique car blends my love for European cars with an OEM+ design inspired by Japan’s VIP builds. Here’s the story of how I fell in love with cars, my Arteon build, and where I’m headed next.

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The Beginning: From Hot Wheels to the Driver’s Seat

Growing up, I was surrounded by mechanical inspiration. My great-grandfather was a NASCAR pit mechanic for Richard Petty, and family gatherings were always filled with discussions about cars and projects.

My car obsession began in Japan, where I bought my first car, a 2001 JCW Mini. While my friends were picking up iconic JDM cars like the GT-R, I went against the grain. However, it wasn’t long before I caught the turbo fever with a Subaru Forester STI. The flutter of the turbo hooked me, and I traded up to a 1996 WRX STI, where I built my first motor.

From there, I delved into drifting with an 1983 Trueno GT Apex. The smells, sounds, and adrenaline of drifting became a new passion. When I returned stateside, I brought the Trueno with me but reignited my love for Volkswagens with a 1971 Beetle. That Beetle sparked an obsession with VW that eventually led to my 2023 Arteon SEL.

The Arteon: A Rare Gem in Kingfisher Blue

The Volkswagen Arteon immediately caught my attention. In the U.S., we rarely get the coolest versions of European cars, and the Arteon was a refreshing exception. When I first saw one, I was struck by its sleek, upscale design and rarity on American roads.

In 2023, Volkswagen released the Arteon in Kingfisher Blue, a striking color offered for just one year before the car was discontinued in the U.S. Driving it is an experience like no other; it has the performance of a Golf R with the smooth ride of a luxury sedan. As a sportback, it also offers practicality with ample cargo space—even with a full air ride setup.

Building the Dream: OEM+ with a VIP Twist

My vision for the Arteon was clear: an OEM+ build with a touch of Japan’s VIP style. The process began with swapping the rear bumper for the European version, complete with a real exhaust. I added a Maxton Design front lip and a CSL-inspired rear wing.

The wheels are 3SDM forged 0.04s in a square 20x9 +25 setup, giving the car a flush stance. For suspension, I worked with FeelAir and Maxloadair to install air ride, enhancing the Japanese VIP aesthetic. A local shop built a custom 2.5” exhaust, and I installed a RacingLine Stage 2 high-torque tune to boost the engine’s performance.

Build List

• Engine: RacingLine intercooler, RacingLine intake, RacingLine Stage 2 tune

• Exhaust: Full custom 2.5” catback

• Exterior: European-style rear bumper, Maxton Design front spoiler, Lamin-X yellow PPF on headlights and running lights

• Suspension: Maxloadair air suspension, FeelAir air management

• Wheels: 3SDM 0.04, 20x9 +25

• Interior: Carbon DSG shifter with Alcantara

Who Did the Work?

Aside from the custom exhaust, I’ve done all the work myself. From wrapping interior pieces to installing the air suspension, I prefer a hands-on approach. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the transformation knowing I did it with my own two hands.

Future Plans for the Arteon

The Arteon build is nearly complete, but there are still a few ideas on my mind:

1. Wrapping the car to experiment with new colors and styles.

2. Upgrading to a bigger turbo and a custom tune for even more power.

Shout-Outs and Acknowledgments

Big thanks to:

• FeelAir and Maxloadair for the air suspension components.

• The local shop that crafted my custom exhaust.

• My family for inspiring my passion for cars and mechanics.

Dream Car

If I could have any car, it would be a 1967 Austin Mini Cooper. Its timeless charm and heritage perfectly align with my love for classic and unique vehicles.

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