Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen CC is a sedan for midsize car shoppers who want something with a bit more style and flair than your average rolling appliance. Following Mercedes' lead with its E-Class-based CLS "four-door coupe," VW took the Passat sedan and, with a nip here and a tuck there, transformed it into a sleeker and more eye-catching offering.

The current Volkswagen CC (the CC moniker stands for "Comfort Coupe") is based on the previous-generation Passat. It owes its striking stance to dramatically redesigned sheet metal and a lower, sloped roof line. The suspension has also been tightened up for sharper handling and the base engine is a torque-rich, fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder. The CC boasts high-quality furnishings and, during its first four years, featured a more sculpted two-person backseat instead of the typical three-passenger arrangement. The result is a suave and sporty European sedan that our editors have deemed an excellent antidote to mainstream mediocrity.

Current Volkswagen CC
The Volkswagen CC is a five-seat midsize sedan that's available in four trim levels: Sport, R-Line, Executive and VR6 4Motion Executive.

Standard power for all CCs except the highest trim level comes from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Sport and R-Line trims. A six-speed automated manual known as DSG takes the place of a conventional automatic transmission, and is optional on those trims and standard on the Executive trim. Front-wheel drive is standard on all four-cylinder models. A 3.6-liter V6 with 280 hp and 265 lb-ft is standard on the VR6 4Motion Executive. A conventional six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are also standard.

Even the base CC is nicely equipped, boasting such niceties as alloy wheels, foglights, automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, convincing leatherette (vinyl) upholstery, power heated front seats, VW's Car-Net telematics  system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a navigation system and a touchscreen-operated stereo with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. If that's not enough, additional features and options -- depending on trim level -- include leather upholstery, a sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, front and rear parking sensors, a superb premium sound system and an upgraded navigation system with a bigger display screen and a rearview camera.

In reviews, our editors have taken a strong liking to the Volkswagen CC. Its combination of good looks, strong performance and upscale cabin with high-quality materials is tough to beat. The value leader is clearly the turbocharged four-cylinder model, which offers peppy pickup and plenty of standard luxuries for about the same price as V6-powered mainstream family sedans.

However, there's also an argument to be made for stepping up to the VR6 – it's considerably more expensive, but the six-cylinder delivers authoritative acceleration at all speeds, and the CC's finely wrought interior helps to support the VR6's elevated price point. Either way, the Volkswagen CC's sport-tuned suspension offers an excellent ride/handling balance, soaking up bumps in typically firm Germanic fashion and tackling tight corners with surprising verve. Just know that the CC's styling requires some compromises: Rear headroom is tight for taller passengers, and trunk space is down quite a bit compared to the much larger current Passat.

Used Volkswagen CC Models
The Volkswagen CC was first introduced for the 2009 model year. A used CC is pretty similar to a new one, though there have been a few changes over the years. In that first year, a conventional six-speed automatic was optional on the 2.0T model rather than the current car's DSG transmission. Bluetooth was an option and the standard stereo did not feature the touchscreen interface. The V6 came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive being optional. That changed for 2011, when all-wheel drive became standard for the V6.

Perhaps the most notable change occurred for 2013, when the CC swapped out its former, sculpted two-person rear seat for a more conventional and practical three-person setup. That year also brought a slight exterior styling refresh that included slimmed-down head- and taillights. Other than a minor shuffling of features and lacking the current lineup's Executive trim level and telematics system, these latter CC models are similar to today's offerings.

User Reviews:

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  Good to be back! - 2010 Volkswagen CC
  By William - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned several VWs in the past, none ever gave me any extreme issues. Gave Dodge a chance, good cars, just not for me. Had a 2008 Honda Accord that was absolutely great, reliable, fuel efficient, and loaded to the gills with features, and convenience. Having said that, I traded it in yesterday for the CC! Man, what a difference!! 1. Interior is gorgeous in the CC 2. Radio touchscreen, Bluetooth, are top notch. 3. No 5th seat! 4. QUIET INSIDE! The Honda, let the world inside of it with noise. 5. Handling, refinement, and quality is very good.

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  Favorite Car Ive Ever Owned! - 2010 Volkswagen CC
  By uhlie - February 23 - 7:20 am

  I bought this car two weeks ago and I still look for reasons to go for a drive. I really do believe that it is the best car for the money. I did extensive research and test drove a Subaru Legacy, Ford Fusion and a Nissan Altima. The Volkswagen kept calling me back. It looks great and is simply fun to drive. Tons of power, good gas mileage (I get about 32 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg overall) plenty of room, and an unbelievable list of options even on the base car. As long as you can live with only fitting two in the back seat, Id definitely recommend it.

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  Very Impressed - 2009 Volkswagen CC
  By Eric Sands - January 22 - 10:30 am

  I have had mine for about 3 months now. I love the way it drives. Very German. Sporty. Stiff but not jarring at all. Very quiet cabin at highway speeds. Quality craftmanship interior and exterior. I love the simplistic layout of the cockpit. There is just enough to give you the info you need, without cluttering up the dash with useless trinkets and faux finishes. The brushed aluminum is real. No problems so far. I am a little disappointed in the gas mileage. Nowhere near advertised. They stated 27 mpg highway. I do 95% of my driving on the highway and I never hit traffic and I am getting about 23 mpg. That will add up quite a it over the years...

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  The absolute worst car I have owned since.... - 2010 Volkswagen CC
  By Bryan now hates VW - January 19 - 7:19 am

  This is the worst car I have owned since I only had $1700 and I was 17. Broke down like clock work every 3k miles. New transmission, new fuel injectors, supposed "corrosion build up" that I paid for after 50k miles because the right brands of gasoline werent used...I used the "recommended Top Tier" gasolines per VW. Had to have the whole radio replaced, no bluetooth compatibility, then my car broke down again, then again....then after it broke down again, another fuel injector went out. I was "afforded" a 2014 TDI Passat to drive while under repair. All the electronics we screwed up on it so I couldnt use navigation...due to a yet to arrive "software update" Next, I had a turbo Beetle, the "sport gauges" failed, including turbo pressure and oil temperature at regular intervals, a driving light was already out...all at 8k miles. My advice....STAY AWAY from VW. Absolutely the worst car company I know. I would rather drive a Chevy Cruze than these pieces of ....

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  Small Design Flaws Looking Rearwards - 2009 Volkswagen CC
  By Joel - January 14 - 5:40 pm

  The only thing that I do not care for about the CC at this point is looking rearwards when it is raining. The angle of the rear window does not allow sufficient water to drain (it stands), and there is no wiper. And the design of the side rearview mirrors also allow water to accumulate. And this is even with using products to improve water run- off.

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  Love the car. Driving comfort ??? - 2009 Volkswagen CC
  By michelle-horton@sbcg - December 18 - 12:40 am

  I bought the CC 4cyclinder 2.0 model about 3-weeks ago. I enjoy the attention the car gets and the sleek look. One major drawback is the car doesnt absorb bumps well and its not a comfortable ride at all. I have not read about any suspension problems. Feel trapped in a beautiful car with a not so comfortable ride. Also, the gas mileage is so good. Not getting 20 mpg at all. Backing up is a nightmare

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  Love it - 2009 Volkswagen CC
  By Thomas C - December 3 - 1:53 pm

  I purchased the sport trim w/ Bluetooth+Sirius radio. I traded in an 01 Audi A4. The car is overall superb. The car rivals the BMW/A4 models in the 30-40k class even in the sport model. Outside: The car looks better in person. The aesthetics are more in-line with a Lexus IS250 as opposed to a VW. Inside: Regardless of what trim you select the car comes with numerous amenities normally expected ala carte. Pay close attention to the standard list. The 2.0L turbo 4 cyl engine is deceptively powerful in tandem with the transmission. Even the non-leather V-tex seating has a leather feel to it. Leather wrapped steering wheel, power adjustable heated seats, climate control...

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  Judging a book by its cover - 2009 Volkswagen CC
  By Cookin998 - December 2 - 10:10 am

  My third VW, Ive gone from Jetta to Passat and now to CC. In the transitions I was a bit disappointed in the Passat (like most 90s VWs, it had its electrical problems). The CC restores my faith in VW. My wife is a BMW gal and she loves this car. The ride (in stop-and-go, on country roads or highway) is a lot tighter than her 535. The standard features are incredible (could use a better sunroof though) for a car in this price range and the tires and rims that come standard need absolutely no upgrade. Within the first two months every single person who rides with me in this car or even sees the car in a parking lot asks about it. I would definitely recommend this, just negotiate a good price

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  CC is an elegantly designed car priced exceptionally well - 2012 Volkswagen CC
  By lknightor - December 1 - 5:58 am

  I took delivery of my 2012 CC yesterday. I have been eyeing this car for two years, since seeing it at the local car show. The design of this Euro sport coupe/sedan was striking, and far ahead of any domestic manufacturer in a similar price range. The metallic Black adds to the striking silouette. This car looks like a leopard ready to leap, even while standing curbside. Yes, the rear seats (2) are not as spacious as my old Mercedes E320. However, the dog never complains about headroom. The interior appointments, and the options on a basic Sport model far exceed what I had on the Mercedes. Dual 6 way power front seats, and a radio that does everything but blow your nose for you! Thanks VW!

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  Honda to VW-CC and no regrets - 2012 Volkswagen CC
  By jackinfl1 - November 25 - 1:55 am

  Just purchased this 2012 VW-CC Sport after trading in my Honda Accord 08. No regrets so far. I love the CC, it drives and handles so incredibly. I really liked the reliability of the Honda, but it just didnt drive like this vehicle. The VW a classy looking vehicle for the price range, but it is a blast to drive! Im about 64" and there is plenty of leg room. Interior is sleek and well designed. Was totally amazed at the power of the 4 cyl engine, the turbo makes it seem like an V6 ! Braking is smooth and even and when you drive it, it feels like a great fitting suit. I owned a Jetta in the mid - 90s and after an Altima and then a Honda, time to give VW another try. Glad I did!