Used 2015 Volkswagen CC

If we had to summarize the 2015 Volkswagen CC sedan, we’d say it’s very much like the Passat, only more glamorous. Although the CC is actually a sedan, VW takes the same point of view as Mercedes-Benz and BMW. This "4-door coupe" is so called due to its low-slung proportions, coupe-like silhouette and frameless side windows. The CC’s standard equipment list is more robust than the Passat’s, a fact reflected in its substantially higher price tag. The CC’s available all-wheel drive (AWD) gives it a leg up over competitors such as the Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Azera, although the Buck Regal and Infiniti Q40 are better equipped to the give the CC a run for its money.

As its low and sleek appearance would suggest, the 2015 Volkswagen CC 4-door drives as well as it looks. The firm suspension and lightweight body contribute to the CC’s engaging driving experience, much more so than with the Passat. Unlike many cars with taut suspensions, the CC doesn’t punish its occupants with a jarring ride. Instead, it soaks up road blemishes without drama. As is typical of VW cars, the steering feel is excellent, never over-assisted and always direct with just the right amount of resistance. Power from the standard 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter is quite impressive, especially when jumping into traffic or darting across intersections. CC models equipped with the 6-speed twin-clutch automatic have a Sport mode that heightens performance. Opt for the 4Motion all-wheel drive and you not only get better traction in summer and winter, you’ll also pick up a 280-horsepower V6 with an abundance of power.

The 2015 Volkswagen CC’s cabin is inviting, at least up front. High-quality materials appear throughout, highlighted by metal trim accents, faux or real leather depending on trim, and sleek, Euro-chic lines. We’re especially fond of interiors outfitted with the 2-tone color scheme. The front seats are comfortable, and with 12-way power adjustment it’s easy for the driver and passenger to find a fit. The rear seats, however, are rather cramped. The trade-off for the CC’s stylish, swoopy roofline is diminished rear-seat headroom and compromised outward visibility.

The CC’s calling card is its exterior design, and this VW continues to impress with its elegant shape. Although now in its sixth model year, the CC is still striking with its flowing roof, nubbed tail and upward-creasing beltline that runs through the doors. It all conveys a car that’s moving even when it’s not. The 2015 Volkswagen CC sedan further stands out with bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights and LED daytime running lights. R-Line models offer a sportier take with a body kit, side skirts, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and unique front fascia with large, circular fog-light housings.

HANDS-FREE TRUNK OPENING
Ever find yourself with both arms full of groceries and no way to open the trunk? This convenient CC feature permits you to pass your foot under the bumper signaling the system to open the trunk. Pretty slick.

4MOTION ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE
Better than most part-time systems, VW’s 4Motion keeps power going to the wheels that need it most, a bonus whether carving up dry roads or navigating through snow-covered passes.

Spend the least on a new VW CC, and you’ll still get a well-equipped car. Among the standard highlights are dual-zone automatic climate control, the Car-Net smartphone-enabled car-communication system, heated front seats, 17-inch alloy wheels and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Navigation is also standard, but the caveat is that the base unit’s screen is hardly larger than that of a smartphone and not all that intuitive. Standard audio is taken care of by an 8-speaker AM/FM/CD system with aux/iPod inputs and Bluetooth streaming. New 2015 VW CC models also include complimentary maintenance for two years/24,000 miles.

As with other VW models, optional equipment for the CC is had by moving up trim levels. Climbing from the base Sport to R-Line brings larger wheels and performance-biased aesthetics, while the new Executive trim offers power sunroof, the hands-free trunk-opening system, rearview camera, leather upholstery and a larger touch-screen control system. The top-line VR6 4Motion includes a V6 engine, all-wheel drive, premium Dynaudio sound system, parking sensors, power-operated rear sunshade and ventilated front seats.

Two engines are offered in the 2015 Volkswagen CC. Most models are front-wheel drive (FWD) and use a turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 200 horsepower and returns up to 32 mpg with a manual transmission or 31 with the more popular automatic. Used exclusively on the top-end model is a 280-horsepower V6 with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. If you’re looking for a high-mileage diesel option like that offered in the Passat, you won’t find it here. And speaking of fuel, premium gasoline is recommended for both of the CC’s engines.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
200 horsepower @ 5,100 rpm
207 lb-ft of torque @ 1,700 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/32 mpg (manual), 22/31 mpg (automatic)

3.6-liter V6
280 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
265 lb-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25