Volkswagen CC 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 140

The critics though Mercedes was foolish when it rolled out its first generation CLS, a premium four-door 'coupe'. Volkswagen's more accessible Passat CC promised a down to earth and affordable alternative, and this revised CC aims to continue this trend.

Despite the perception of being a conservative car maker, Volkswagen is also aiming high with the CC. Keen to make a mark in the affordable premium market, the CC follows other four-door 'coupe models such as Mercedes' CLS and Audi's A5 and A7 Sportback models.

Where the CC differs from other German rivals is on price. Volkswagen is keen to make its offering that bit more accessible, all the while injecting a bit of glamour into its line-up. As such, the CC offers Passat-like practicality alongside a premium feel associated with more expensive cars such as the Phaeton.

Underpinning the CC is the Passat and its range of engines and gearboxes. The result is a tried and tested formula of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines plus manual and auto transmissions.

Where the CC differs from regular medium size saloons is in its classy coupe-like profile and more upmarket cabin ambience. This combination is hoped to be a key driver in tempting buyers away from conventional alternatives but, crucially, at a lower price than its premium rivals and with very little loss of real world practicality.

Our verdict on the Volkswagen CC 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 140

It's no longer a new concept, but the four-door 'coupe' format is one that appears to work well with buyers seeking a premium alternative to a conventional saloon. In Volkswagen's case, the CC offers a welcome extra layer of luxury and kerb appeal for the price of a high-spec fleet saloon without any obvious day-to-day compromise.

Costs

If you want to makes a saving you're better off with a conventional Passat saloon, as the CC is positioned as a more premium offering. That said, opt for diesel power and it's easy to keep a lid on day-to-day running costs. It's just as well, as you'll need to visit the options list if you want to raise the ownership experience to a suitably premium level.

Space and practicality

You don't buy a CC for its family-friendly versatility, but its cabin is a good size for four adults and the boot is par for the course in terms of a mid-size premium saloon. Cabin oddment storage space is reasonable, too.

Controls and display

Like so many Volkswagen Group cars, the CC's various controls and displays operate with a smoothness that wouldn't feel out of place in a car costing twice as much. The main touch screen display is intuitive point of contact, while commonly used audio controls are duplicated on the steering wheel.

Comfort

With its wide cabin and airy ambience the CC boasts a refreshing and relaxing environment to spend time in. Road and external noise is kept to a pleasing minimum, while there's little chance of occupants clashing elbows. Plush upholstery completes the attractive package.

Car security

You won't find anything particularly outstanding here, as you get the usual immobiliser and remote locking systems, although keyless ignition option is worth having and the CC's saloon boot bodystyle ensures a safe haven for your valuables.

Car safety

A generous number of airbags is backed up by the usual electronic stability programmes. Child seat mounting points complete an otherwise predictable approach to safety provision.

Driver appeal

Keen divers will likely still opt for a more traditional German offering, but the CC acquits itself well even if you plan on a brisk pace on familiar roads. In truth, the CC is set up more for comfort and refinement, two things it does well. The diesel engines deliver sufficient pace while the petrol motors offer noticeably more refinement.

Family car appeal

There a re much better family-orientated cars than the CC, as its cabin is a little to luxurious for family duties. Access to the rear of the cabin could be better, especially if you need to fit a child seat. The car's boot is a good size but the aperture could be larger, which is why an estate or people carrier makes more sense.

First car appeal

There's little reason for a novice driver to pick the CC, as it's hardly a small car and one that's going to cost significantly more than something more appropriate like a Polo.

Quality and image

In a bid to offer a more upmarket car than the humble Passat in the expanding compact premium sector, the CC attempts to deliver a more refined ownership experience and bold looks. Certainly, there's nothing else comparable in the VW range and it's a lower cost alternative to cars from the likes of BMW and Mercedes.

Accessibility

Accessing the front seats of the CC is a straightforward act, with only the car's sloping roofline and modest rear door aperture proving a slight inconvenience for taller occupants. At the rear the car's boot possesses a narrower then usual load opening - blame the car's coupe-like profile.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

As with the Passat and other VW group cars, the CC boasts a large colour screen for users to access all the important audio, navigation and communication features. The overall touchscreen experience is a good one, an audio quality is also agreeable.

Colours and trim

As befits a premium market car, the CC best looks the part in sombre hues. The same is true of the cabin, although this does lead to a darker environment than some would like. Lighter upholstery and trim accents can help reverse this, though.

Parking

While the CC is a large car, its mirrors are a good size and the various controls are light and easy to use at slow speeds. Parking sensors at the rear are a welcome addition, and help considerably with reverse parking due to the car's modest rearward visibility.

Spare wheel

A spare wheel is located in the boot.

Range information

Petrol engine options: 1.4-litre (160bhp); 2.0-litre (210bhp). Diesel engine options: 2.0-litre (140bhp, 177bhp). Transmission options: six-speed manual, six and seven-speed direct shift DSG gearboxes depending on the engine. Trim levels: base, BlueMotion Technology, GT, GT BlueMotion Technology, R-Line.

Alternative cars

Vauxhall Insignia Premium feel of mid-size Vauxhall enhances its appeal

Mercedes-Benz CLS More expensive four-door 'coupe' but successfully delivers a premium experience

Skoda Superb Not as visually stylish but boasts ample space and refinement

BMW 3 Series GT Compact premium lifestyle hatch is more family orientated than the CC