CD Article: 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC

[CD_Editor]

First Drive:


With "swoopy curves" and a roofline that's 50 mm lower than the standard Passat, the new Passat CC is arguably, "the best-looking VW sedan ever built," opines contributor Tony Whitney.  The CC will go on sale later this year.  

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Read the article | View the photos | All The First Drives

[JVan]

Beautiful car, they look amazing in pictures and I can't wait to see it in person. I'm trying to talk my parents into one of these, unfortunately I think they want some kind of crossover.

So how much would a 2.0 with some options (sunroof) cost?

[tpl]

If it is really 50 mm less headroom I presume that the seats can go down a long way and then, can you see over the steering wheel.

[2hondas]

That is one sexy sedan.

But will anyone spend 50k + on a VW sedan? Isn't that Audi territory?

[Spheric]

I'm not sure about the value proposition of marketing a mainstream VW vehicle which can only accommodate 2 rear passengers. Assuming that the Mercedes CLS and VW CC will appeal to different socio-economic segments based on price, I can also assume that CLS customers are more likely to be able to afford a second vehicle which can carry 5+ passengers when the need arises. The CC will have an uphill battle to achieve volume sales in the family driver segment.

As the article didn't have a pic of the rear seats here's one I found:

[Vil]

That is one sexy sedan.

But will anyone spend 50k + on a VW sedan? Isn't that Audi territory?

50K would be for a top-of-the-line V6 model with 4motion.  Expect the base 2.0T to start in the low 30k.

[Mitlov]

I'm not sure about the value proposition of marketing a mainstream VW vehicle which can only accommodate 2 rear passengers. Assuming that the Mercedes CLS and VW CC will appeal to different socio-economic segments based on price, I can also assume that CLS customers are more likely to be able to afford a second vehicle which can carry 5+ passengers when the need arises. The CC will have an uphill battle to achieve volume sales in the family driver segment.

But how often do people use their rear-center seat?  I've never used mine in the Jetta.  I think I used it once in the Legacy.  I would have no problem buying a four-seater instead of a five-seater as a family vehicle.

Besides, if an argument can be made for the Accord and Altima coupes, an argument certainly can be made for this.  They use family car underpinnings, but sacrifice a big chunk of utility for style.  The Passat CC arguably gains as much or more style as a coupe would gain, with a much smaller sacrifice in utility.

[Serniter]

The Passat's rear seat is already uncomfortable compared to the previous generation (low seat height). Reducing the head room is going to make it decidedly claustrophobic. I'd still pick the CC over a regular Passat since I rarely use the rear seat.

[TopGun]

But how often do people use their rear-center seat?

Most people don't use the capabilities of their SUVs...but they appear to like to have the option!  That said...I wouldn't have a problem buying a 4-seater either.

I was surprised by the availability of a manual..good on them!  I think the body looks great...but I'd like it to sit lower.  BMWs (ex the X-drive) have a very narrow gap between the body and the tire.  A benefit of RWD?

[Spheric]

But how often do people use their rear-center seat?  I've never used mine in the Jetta.  I think I used it once in the Legacy.  I would have no problem buying a four-seater instead of a five-seater as a family vehicle.

Fair enough - yes it is a lifestyle decision to go with a 4 seater etc just like one would choose 2 doors over 4. It just seems that VW maybe excluding a whole segment of customers who need, regularly or occasionally, a capacity to carry driver + 4 passengers especially as the CC entry model pricing is in (V6) Camry/Accord/new Mazda 6 territory. At a much higher price point (eg CLS / exotic / niche) I don't think I would care one way or another.

I think I'll wait for some Skoda derived product to reach these shores....

[mmret]

Slightly overstyled taillights aside, this is one nice looking car.

[Mitlov]

I think I'll wait for some Skoda derived product to reach these shores....

Why do you say "Skoda-derived" products?  Skodas are VW-derived products.  For example, the Superb is a reskinned, long-wheelbase Passat hatchback, but it's definitely Passat-derived.

[dave]

It kind of reminds me of a Chrysler Sebring from behind....otherwise a great looking sedan.

[rsxca]

Great looking sedan.  Wonder when we should expect these at the dealerships??  Would be interested if it comes before september.