One of the oldest models in the brand’s showroom, the 2017 Volkswagen CC is one few you can buy still crafted in Germany.
Built on the European Passat chassis, the Volkswagen CC was originally an answer to the Mercedes-Benz CLS, a car based on a sedan and given a coupe like roofline for those who wanted something avant garde.
Sexier it is than the Passat on which it’s based. Though that sweeping roofline does come at a cost both in dollars but in a tighter rear seat passenger space. Coupe buyers don’t care though, this is really meant more of a personal car.
In 2017 the Volkswagen CC comes with in two trim grades, the well equipped Sport at $34,475 as an entry point and the R-Line Executive that’s priced at $37,820. Stepping up to the top trim gets you leather interior, larger wheels, and a more aggressive body package among other upgrades.
The interior though designed a decade ago remains contemporary to even the newest Volkswagen models. A leather wrapped steering wheel has high quality switchgear, the center stack full of businesslike design and the start button is on the console.
Front and center is Volkswagen’s most recent touchscreen infotainment system, but oddly not with Fender Audio. Called Discover Media, it does however offer a lot of functionality with connectivity of Bluetooth, USB and also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Front seats are exceptionally comfortable with power adjustments and heating on both trim grades. Adjustment range is good for a variety of driver sizes too. Rear seats however though now seating three across remain tighter in the headroom department than with a Passat sedan.
Trunk space comes in at 13.2 cubic feet, a bit snug but the seats do fold down for longer items.
Under the hood is Volkswagen’s venerable 2.0 liter TFSI turbocharged and direct injected four-cylinder engine that offers 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed DSG automatic transmission and is rated by the EPA at 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined. The VR6 engine is no longer available.
Power from the 2.0 liter four is more than adequate and is delivered well through the DSG gearbox. I have always liked this powertrain and though the VR6 is a nice step up, few people will be disappointed with this. When it comes to fuel economy I was able to achieve 31 mpg combined, well more than promised.
Handling is as German in character as you would expect, given the Volkswagen CC’s heritage. A simple strut front suspension and a multi-link rear give you plenty of sure footed control even on rougher roads, all while offering up that supple German feel.
The 2017 Volkswagen CC may well be in its last year or two of production before an all-new replacement comes along, likely larger and more upscale so time is of the essence if you want one of these.
It’s definitely a more premium choice even as it is, a niche product for a niche customer.
