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To help you make the right decision on the 2010 Volkswagen CC, TheCarConnection.com has looked at what some of the most reputable auto critics have said about the CC, picking highlights for a full review. TheCarConnection.com's editors have also driven VW CC and bring you firsthand observations and expert comparisons in this Bottom Line.
Likes:
- Stylish exterior
- Lavish cabin details—and frameless windows
- Sheer value (base 2.0T)
Dislikes:
- Overly light steering
- Touchy brakes
- Odd seating position
- Tight rear headroom
- Harsh ride with larger wheels
The 2010 Volkswagen CC looks like a more expensive vehicle than it is—no doubt a good thing for most shoppers. As Volkswagen's second attempt at a luxury sedan, the CC takes a more conservative approach in the market than the former Phaeton flagship. Instead of being built on an entirely new, exclusive platform, the CC is constructed with familiar underpinnings shared with the Passat—and in the case of VR6 and 4Motion all-wheel-drive variants, it effectively replaces the Passat.
All this modesty isn't readily apparent at first glance. The 2010 Volkswagen CC follows a stunning, coupe-like silhouette similar to that of the Mercedes CLS, with frameless windows and a long, flowing design. Whether or not you take offense to anything with four doors calling itself a coupe, VW has successfully produced a very elegant overall design, with the exception of rather long overhangs (especially in the front). Inside, the CC is especially stunning, with contrast stitching, contrasting-color leather seats, and upscale trim that you'll likely be surprised to see in a vehicle that costs less than $30,000.
The base engine for the 2010 Volkswagen Passat CC is the excellent VW/Audi 2.0T four-cylinder, making 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The base Sport model comes standard with a six-speed manual, while a six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Though few buyers will probably opt for it, the manual transmission is nice in the CC, with a notchy linkage but pleasant clutch. The automatic isn't nearly as great; rather than the excellent twin-clutch DSG system used in smaller cars, the CC gets a conventional automatic that doesn't do so well with the four-cylinder. It's marginally better with the V-6, but upshifts can be lumpy and downshifts hesitant. Overall, the turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder is the clear choice over the V-6, with copious torque and a generally relaxed demeanor, nearly matching the uplevel V-6's acceleration and ringing in at 31 mpg on the highway. The 3.6-liter variant of VW's narrow-angle V-6 (VR6) is optional, but we recommend against it due to its somewhat gruff and vocal nature, less accessible torque curve, and higher fuel consumption. The VW CC handles well, but overall it's unremarkable due to overboosted, feather-light steering that lacks any sense of road feel. Brakes are also a disappointment—they're too touchy and tough to modulate, though they are strong and capable.
