VW CC: One pretty Passat
In 2009, Volkswagen debuted the CC, a slick “four-door coupe” whose flowing silhouette suggested high-performance European luxury, but whose platform was strictly Passat.
Passat is Volkswagen’s mid-size, four-door family sedan. When the time came to introduce the expected two-door coupe, VW instead stretched the Passat a half-inch, lowered its roofline 2 inches and re-sculpted its sheet metal. Hands-down, the resulting four-door was one of the prettiest VWs ever.
In 2009, Volkswagen debuted the CC, a slick “four-door coupe” whose flowing silhouette suggested high-performance European luxury, but whose platform was strictly Passat.
Passat is Volkswagen’s mid-size, four-door family sedan. When the time came to introduce the expected two-door coupe, VW instead stretched the Passat a half-inch, lowered its roofline 2 inches and re-sculpted its sheet metal. Hands-down, the resulting four-door was one of the prettiest VWs ever.
The CC ($33,360, including destination) took its official name — Comfort Coupe — from its stylish shape. Never mind that historically the term <em>coupe</em> has been reserved for cars with two doors.
From the beginning, CC cabin design took an upscale swing. Its seats improve on the Passat’s and materials quality is a cut higher. Two-tone interiors, with contrast stitching, are available, and all VW’s latest and greatest cabin electronics — including its new Car-Net telematics — come standard.
Other standard features include foglights, automatic wipers, automatic bi-xenon headlights, LED taillights and daytime running lights, automatic climate control, cruise control, heated eight-way front seats (with four-way lumbar), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, navigation and an eight-speaker sound system with a touchscreen interface, CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and iPod interface.
At its inception, VW positioned the CC as a four-passenger ride, with a center armrest/console separating the two outboard rear-seat positions. Last year, it removed the console, making room for a third second-row position that’s just roomy enough for a child seat or, briefly, a small adult.
Rear-set legroom is abundant but headroom is not. The trunk is smaller than the standard-issue Passat’s, as well, though the rear seatbacks fold flat to increase cargo space.
The CC inherited the Passat’s rock-ribbed underpinnings and taut Teutonic road-manners. Available in front- and all-wheel-drive, the CC is powered by a 200-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 280-hp V-6.
The four can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG automated manual.
With the DSG, it’s rated at 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city/31 mpg highway); the manual is also rated at 25 mpg combined (21 city/32 highway).
The 280-hp six powers the top-of-the-line, AWD-only VR6 Executive ($43,760). It’s s available only with the DSG and estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg combined (17/25)
Last year, VW added a four-cylinder R-Line trim ($34,595) that adds a set of sporty cosmetic upgrades that include 18-inch alloys; stainless pedals and doorsill plates; rain-sensing wipers; 12-way power seats; and paddle shifters for manumatic-equipped cars.
Our R-Line tester was equipped with the manual gearbox that, while it doesn’t turn the CC into a track star, increases driver engagement. The steering system that feels light in town firms up nicely at speed and body control is quite good. The ride is firm but never slips into punishment mode.
With four-door utility and two-door styling riding on the Passat’s sturdy underpinnings, the CC’s slippery silhouette resolves into sharp focus.
Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com.
32014 Volkswagen CC R-Line
Vehicle base price: $31,863
Trim level base price: $33,025
As tested: $33,890
Optional equipment: The R-Line is a fully equipped trim level; our tester came without options.
EPA ratings: 25 combined/21 city/32 highway
Premium unleaded fuel required
