2010 Volkswagen CC vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The Mercedes-Benz CLS sedan looks quite a bit like the CLS from a distance, at least in profile, but the CLS costs tens of thousands more.

Just redesigned last year, the Audi A4 shares the CC's curvy, attention-getting styling and matches the quality—if not outright beauty—of its interior.

Breaking off in another, uniquely American direction is the Cadillac CTS, which offers a set of excellent powertrains and superior driving dynamics.

Chrysler's 300 is bold and handsome in a very different way than the CC, but its interior surfaces and details are a letdown.

The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 trail this pack in terms of styling excitement, but the rear-wheel-drive architecture and Lexus' attention to detail are a pleasure.

Another new entry to consider for 2010 is the Honda Accord Crosstour, a new hatchback version of the Accord that feels like a completely different model, with its own sleek fastback look but the rest of the Accord's predictable goodness intact.