It's hard to believe our Four Seasons Jetta TDI and this CC are made by the same company. The TDI is a nondescript looking little car featuring terrific engineering and interior quality head and shoulders above anything else in its class. The CC, on the other hand, is a stunning exercise that falls a bit short in the details.
The CC is, no doubt, a looker. I drive a different car into my apartment complex every night, but this is the only one that's ever gotten any attention. "That thing a Volkswagen?" my neighbor asked in amazement. Clearly, this is the new style leader in the mid-size segment.
The one thing that does not quite come across in pictures is the CC's size. It looks massive in person, and drives accordingly. The VR6 provides strong acceleration and its handling is well balanced, but the car never lets you forget how big it is. This won't bother buyers coming from SUVs or other large sedans, but those accustomed to VW's engaging smaller products will be disappointed.
VW aficionados will likewise be shocked by the interior quality, or lack thereof. Most of the plastic trim is rough, and hard. The trim surrounding the HVAC unit was flimsy and already coming loose - not what one expects from a $40,000 car. Again, this is all the more incomprehensible given that our $23,000 Jetta has a flawless interior that puts many more expensive vehicles to shame.
The CC's competent performance and jaw-dropping looks should attract plenty of buyers. But I would prefer to see VW bake in a bit more of that German engineering they've been advertising as of late.
David Zenlea, Assistant Editor ...next page >>