Tired of the plain old midsize sedan? Consider something that’s pleasing to the eye and a thrill to drive. Let Volkswagen take you in a new direction with the 2009 Passat CC, a mix of elegant sedan and dynamic coupe with a starting price of $26,790 (MSRP).
What exactly does CC mean? The name stands for “Comfort Coupe,” a sleeker, restyled version of the VW Passat. The CC and the Passat share similar design elements, though the CC sits a bit wider and lower. The front-end styling is sleek and the rear end is tapered down from the radically sloped roofline. It’s definitely sexier than the average midsize sedan.
Under the hood, the CC comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out 200 hp and 207 lb/ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard; a six-speed automatic is optional. The CC gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The CC VR6 Sport is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 280 hp and 265 lb/ft of torque. A six-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters comes standard. The EPA estimates mileage for the V6 at 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Optional on the CC VR6 Sport is all-wheel drive (also known as 4Motion).
On the road, the standard CC engine has an estimated zero-to-60 time of 7.4 seconds while the VR6 engine does the run in 6.6 seconds. The CC has a nice balance between ride comfort and real-world handling, and drivers will be pleased with the electromechanical power steering while maneuvering into parking spaces. The sport-tuned suspension protects passengers from harsh impacts by soaking up bumps.
Like the Passat, the 2009 VW CC is well equipped and beautifully finished, boasting high-quality materials and well-designed controls. However, the CC adds a bit of flair with sharp two-tone seats that are available on every trim level (tan seat center and door trim surrounded by black). Two notable upgrades are more supportive and eye-catching cross-stitched upholstery and VW’s new touchscreen navigation system.
VW’s sedan comes in S and VR6 Sport trims. The S comes standard with 17-inch wheels, foglights, automatic climate control, power heated seats, leatherette upholstery, split/folding rear seats and an eight-speaker 6-CD stereo with auxiliary audio jack. An available Luxury Package adds a sunroof, sporty alloy trim, front and rear park assist systems and interior leather with dual-zone climate control.
The VR6 Sport comes equipped with the V6 engine and additional 18-inch wheels, steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and a 10-speaker premium audio system.
Also available on both trims is the Technology Package, which incorporates a backup camera system and a useful hard-drive based navigation system (with digital music storage and easy iPod integration).
Every VW CC features standard stability and traction control systems, antilock brakes with brake assist and a sizable array of airbags (including front, side and side-curtain bags), earning the CC an impressive five-star safety rating.
When you want excitement on the road, go for the 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC. It’s a new direction in standout styling and performance.
