2016 Volkswagen CC

The 2016 Volkswagen CC is now available with a host of new driver assistance features and an updated infotainment system featuring a 6.3-inch touchscreen. A new trim level called the 2.0T Trend has also been added. The R-Line trim has gained two new variations, the R-Line Executive, which comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, black window moldings, a panoramic roof, and leather seats, and the Executive with Carbon, which comes carbon leather upholstery and carbon décor.

Vehicle Summary

The 2016 Volkswagen CC is a midsize sedan with a coupe-like roofline that slots above the compact Jetta available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. Compared to the similarly sized Passat, the CC is a more premium option.

Overview

Two engines are available in the 2016 CC: a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 rated at 200 hp and 207 lb-ft and a 3.6-liter V-6 with 280 hp and 265 lb-ft. A six-speed manual or twin-clutch automatic handles shifting duties in the turbo-four. When equipped with the V-6, the only available gearbox is a six-speed automatic. Fuel economy is class competitive at 22/31 mpg city/highway for the turbo-four with the automatic and 21/32 mpg with the manual. V-6 models are the least efficient at 17/25 mpg. Trunk space is small for a midsize sedan at 13.1 cubic feet and can be expanded via the standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats.

Safety

Standard safety features include dual front, front-side, and side curtain airbags. The range-topping V-6 Executive trim comes standard with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and forward emergency braking.

Trims, Packages, and What's Standard

Base Volkswagen CCs come well equipped with features such as navigation, heated front seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and HID headlights. The 2.0T Executive trim adds keyless entry, a sunroof, an upgraded navigation system, 18-inch alloy wheels, and leather upholstery. R-Line models come with sport bumpers and side skirts, keyless entry/start and a sport-tuned suspension. Moving up to the R-Line Executive model adds black exterior accents, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery while the R-Line Executive with Carbon grade adds carbon leather seats, carbon décor, and deletes the ambient lighting. V6 models come fully-loaded with features such as an upgraded navigation system, hands-free trunk opener, rear parking sensors, the Dynaudio premium audio system, and active front seats with ventilation and massaging.

What We Think

We noted in a 2014 CC V-6 First Test review that the car has a stable ride that makes it feel like a true luxury car on open roads, while the cabin is well insulated. Power and handling on the V-6-powered version is also commendable, offering plenty of passing power and staying planted on turns. While the turbo-four-powered CC, doesn't have the same appointments as the V-6 CC, we said in a 2014 First Test review that it's still well-appointed with quality materials and an easy-to-use infotainment system. However, at slow speeds, the touchy throttle and sluggish twin-clutch gearbox make it hard to get going smoothly from a stop.

Cool Fact

The CC was once known as the Passat CC.

Key Competitors

• Kia Cadenza
• Nissan Maxima
• Toyota Avalon
• Buick Regal
• Lincoln MKZ