Used 2016 Volkswagen CC

Summing up Volkswagen’s 2016 CC 4-door coupe is relatively simple. Take one Passat, massage the body to create a coupe-like profile with frameless door glass, add in more high-end features, then reduce the rear seat as to be comfortable only for kids or adults of average stature. Toss in the option of a V6 engine and 4Motion all-wheel drive and you have a slick 4-door coupe costing tens of thousands less than similar cars from Mercedes-Benz and BMW, yet more exclusive than the Nissan Maxima or Hyundai Azera. Some might say an all-wheel-drive Infiniti Q40 or Buick Regal might be a better comparison car, and we’d be inclined to agree.

If a picture is worth a thousand words, the 2016 Volkswagen CC’s long, low appearance says all you need to know about this car’s performance potential. The CC’s lightweight body and firm suspension create a driving experience that is both engaging yet comfortable. VW has managed to make the CC’s taut suspension proactive in the curves without being overly reactive to road imperfections, such as expansion joints and potholes. As one would expect from a VW, the CC’s steering is precise and well balanced, with just the right amount of power assist when needed. The 2.0T’s 200-horsepower turbocharged engine is quite impressive both when merging from a stop and passing at high speed. It’s also remarkably quiet and fuel efficient, aided by VW’s marvelous dual-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission. Moving to the R-Line brings a robust 280-horsepower V6 engine, traction-enhancing 4Motion all-wheel drive and an advanced driver-assist package.

The 2016 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 seventh 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 2016 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.

VW CAR-NET APP-CONNECT
VW’s newest MIB II audio system with Car-Net allows owners to access select apps from their cell phones directly through the car’s radio. Car-Net services also include advanced safety and security features including Automatic Crash Notification and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance.

4MOTION ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE
Unlike many part-time all-wheel-drive systems, VW’s 4Motion AWD continually routes power to the wheels that need it most, giving the CC an added advantage on both dry and wet pavement.

Spend the least on a new VW CC, and you’ll still get a well-equipped car. Among the standard highlights are a 6-speed manual transmission, rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, the Car-Net smartphone-enabled car-communication system, heated front seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, V-Tex simulated leather seating and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The Sport trim adds the 6-speed DSG automatic, navigation, bi-xenon adaptive headlights and push-button start. The R-Line adds 18-inch wheels, leather seating, more aggressive front-bumper treatment and steering-wheel paddle shifters.

As with other VW models, optional equipment for the CC is had by moving up trim levels. The Trend can be equipped with a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission and 2-tone interior, while the R-Line Executive package adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, a power panoramic glass moonroof and ambient lighting. The Executive Carbon adds carbon-colored leather seating and carbon interior accents. Opting for the top-line VR6 4Motion includes a V6 engine, all-wheel drive, premium Dynaudio sound system, parking sensors, power-operated rear sunshade, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking and lane-departure warning.

Two engines are offered in the 2016 Volkswagen CC 4-door coupe. 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. 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 mpg