There's much to like about the new 2012 CC including its sleek and stylish design, European road manners, athletic engines, refined cabin, topnotch build quality, long list of features and even an available all-wheel-drive model (the VR6).
Under the hood, the standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is impressive indeed, providing faster acceleration than one would expect from an engine this size, and doing so while being efficiently stingy at the gas pump. And for those looking for still more gusto, there's a very capable optional 3.6-liter V6 offered as well.
If there's a downside to the CC, it's actually a side effect of one of its strengths: its attractive coupe-like design. In fact, if it wasn't for its four doors, many would take it for coupe at first glance (CC actually stands for Comfort Coupe). The tradeoff is a rear seat that can be challenging for taller occupant headroom and also only accommodates two passengers. While this may not concern many potential buyers who have less need for space and who put a higher value on style and refinement, it neverthless needs to be pointed out that the CC is not a "typical" family sedan.
And while the latest Volkswagen CC has lots to offer, it's always a good idea to also consider worthy rivals to help make the most informed final buying decision. Those needing more space may want to take a look at the Honda Accord, the Hyundai Sonata and the Nissan Altima. Those interested in the more upscale versions of the CC may also want to take a look at the Acura TL, the Audi A4 and the Buick LaCrosse.
Trims And Standard Features:
The 2012 Volkswagen CC is a four-passenger entry-level luxury sedan offered in six models: Sport, R-Line, Lux, Lux Plus, Lux Limited and VR6 4Motion Executive.
Standard features on the well-equipped CC Sport include full power accessories, premium vinyl "leatherette" upholstery, 8-way power front seats, heated front seats, a 3-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, cruise control, heated mirrors, automatic headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a multifunction trip computer, remote keyless entry, automatic wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt/telescoping steering column, a leather-wrapped shift knob, rain-sensing wipers, Bluetooth and an 8-speaker touch-screen audio system with satellite radio, HD radio, an iPod interface and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the CC R-Line trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dark taillights, foglights, and unique side-sill and front bumper styles, while the CC Lux adds different 18-inch alloys, navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, brushed-aluminum interior trim accents and heated washer nozzles.
The Lux Plus model then adds an upgraded navigation system, digital music storage, a rearview camera, a panoramic sunroof, interior wood trim and interior ambient lighting, while the Lux Limited comes with adaptive xenon headlights and a different set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
The top-of-the-line CC VR6 4Motion Executive tops things off with a V6 engine, all-wheel drive, steering wheel shift paddles, leather upholstery, sport seats, headlamp washers, driver memory settings, a power rear sunshade, parking sensors and a 10-speaker Dynaudio audio system.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
The 2012 VW CC is a front-wheel drive vehicle powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (2.0T) that's good for 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 6-speed manual transmission on Sport and R-Line models as standard, while a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DSG) is optional on those and standard issue on all of the Lux models. This feisty 2.0-liter turbo engine, regardless of its rather diminutive size, can propel the CC from a standstill to 60 mph in a very quick 7.3 seconds with the DSG.
Despite this quickness, the EPA-estimated gas mileage for a 2.0T CC with the DSG stands at a quite respectable 22 mpg city and 31 mpg on the highway. Opting for the manual transmission drops these numbers ever so slightly to 21 and 31, respectively.
Under the hood of the all-wheel-drive VR6 4Motion Executive is a 3.6-liter V6 that pumps out 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and has been performance tested to cover the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 6.3 seconds. Gas mileage for the VR6 is rated at 17 mpg city and 25 highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all Volkswagen CCs include traction control, stability control, antilock disc brakes (ABS), brake assist, hill-hold assist, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags.
The 2012 CC had not yet been rated in government crash tests at the time of this writing. However, the 2011 model earned four out of five stars for both front and rear occupant protection in frontal-impacts. In side-impact tests, it earned five stars for front-passenger protection and four stars for rear-passengers.
Interior:
Nomatter the trim, the CC's cabin is lush with high-end features and world class workmanship. It's attractive design and use of high quality materials is actually on a par with more expensive luxury sedans.
The seating is comfortable and supportive, both front and rear, although headroom in the rear quarters is on the tight side for taller passengers due to the sloping roof line. That said, legroom in the rear remains ample. The back seat is also constructed to accommodate two passengers. Instead of offering a cramped rear center seat, Volkswagen designers wisely opted instead for a useful covered bin, convenient cupholders and a flip-down armrest.
The trunk's cargo capacity comes in at an adequate 13 cubic feet, which is somewhat below average for the segment. However, there's a center pass-through in the split-folding rear seats to help accommodate longer items.
Drive:
The 2012 VW CC offers a nicely balanced combination of luxurious ride quality and athletic handling. Some of the CC's nimbleness is enhanced by its sport-tuned suspension, which also results in a somewhat firm ride. Still, the CC does an excellent job of absorbing all but the harshest of road bumps and rough spots. Most drivers will likely be pleased with the CC's overall smoothness while still being able to provide an advanced level of handling ... and all with very good fuel economy.
Most drivers will also likely be satisfied with the power provided by the 2.0-liter turbo engine as well as its quick and smooth shifting DSG transmission. Those who place a higher premium on power will find the VR6's 3.6-liter V6 makes for a very quick sedan, while its standard AWD offers additional assurance for those in rainy or snowy locales.
How To Get The Lowest Price:
Best Negotiating Tactic: Well, there's definitely a 'best way' when it comes to new car buying. If you want to get the best bottomline, out-the-door price you need to know exactly who to talk to at the dealership, how to make the contact and how to make this person eager to quickly drop prices as low as possible to get your sale.
