Volkswagen has been working on a new global platform that will underpin a large variety of their models. And as a part of these efforts to streamline manufacturing and assembly to help cut production costs, reports are saying that the “people’s car” make will be expanding the Passat’s lineup.

The new up and coming platform is internally coded the MQB platform and was first introduced on the new Audi A3, which will see its full unveiling at the Geneva Auto Show next month.

So far, the plans are to offer a range of Passat variants including the regular sedan, a wagon, the CC four-door coupe, and the new Alltrack variant (think Passat version of the Audi A6 All-Road Quattro).

“MQB definitely provides more opportunities for us,” said VW’s marketing chief, Stefan Buhrmann, in an interview. “With the Passat, we can offer many different designs and wheelbases, and can be much more flexible with engines.”

In the same interview, Buhrmann said that Volkswagen is also still working on a Phaeton successor. But few details were exposed.

“We don’t see the Phaeton as a one-time event,” he added. “We work on every project and want to grow the Phaeton.”

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCarUK

Taking heavily from the new Passat, the new 2013 CC maintains its four-door coupe proportions, but features some less dramatic design cues that make the new CC look more sophisticated.

The CC also gets some other modifications as well. Gone is the four-seat capacity as Volkswagen swapped out the rear bench’s center storage unit for a center seat. New exterior and interior color combinations were also introduced for the 2013 CC as well as a new selection of wheels.

Equipment wise, bi-xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps and LED Daytime Running Lights are standard on the CC, with the DRTs optional on Sport models.

All Photos Copyright © Sawyer Sutton – egmCarTech.

The engines powering the new CC are either a 2.0L TSI turbocharged and direct-injected four-banger that’s good for 200hp and the 3.6L narrow-angle VR6 churning out 280hp. Both are carryover items from the previous CC.

For more information, check out the press release after the jump. Pricing and additional information will be released closer to the CC’s launch date during the spring of 2012 for the US.

- By: Chris Chin

At the 2011 LA Auto Show later this month, Volkswagen will unveil the new 2013 CC, which gets a minor redesign for the new model year.

“When the Volkswagen CC debuted four years ago, it was the first affordably priced four-door coupe on sale in the U.S,” Volkswagen said in a statement. “What looked at first like a niche has developed into a completely new segment: nearly 270,000 people around the world have bought Volkswagen’s sedan that has the looks and heart of a sports car. The CC mixes practicality with style and attainability.”

While no technical details are available as of yet, the German automaker says that the 2013 Volkswagen CC gets a bunch of technical and visual upgrades. Design wise, the new CC gets an upgraded front and rear styling and an extended range of standard equipment that includes Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front Lighting System and LED taillights.

Sales of the 2013 Volkswagen CC will go on sale in the Spring in the United States.

- By: Omar Rana

Mercedes-Benz is well known for having pioneered the four-door-coupe segment, and has had at this market all alone for quite some time. However, other luxury automakers like Audi, Porsche and even BMW are catching on to the coupe-ish sedan profile and are looking to get a piece of the pie. But what if you”re looking for such a styled car, but don”t exactly have the budget to accommodate a Mercedes, Audi, Porsche or BMW. With just that consumer in mind, Volkswagen has its new CC, a four-door-coupe with a luxurious look and feel coupled together with solid German driving dynamics.

First time at egmCarTech? Visit our home page for the latest news.

Originally introduced by Volkswagen in 2008, the new CC is a four-door-coupe version of the company”s famed Passat, and it offers great looks at an affordable price. While this is all well and good, it left us wondering; would the CC be more than merely a Passat wrapped in attractive sheet-metal?

2010 Volkswagen CC Specifications:

• Base Price: $27,760.
• Price as Tested: $28,759.
• Engine: 2.0L TSI turbo 4-cylinder ”“ 200-hp / 207 lb-ft of torque; 3.6L FSI V6 – 280-hp / 266 lb-ft.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual; 6-speed Tiptronic.
• Curb Weight: 3,300 lbs for 2.0T; 3,628 for VR6.
• 0 to 60 mph: 6.9 seconds in 2.0T w/ manual; 6.6 seconds in VR6 w/ auto.
• Top Speed: 130 mph.
• Fuel-Economy (city/highway): 22/31 mpg for 2.0T; 18/26 for VR6.

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Exterior:

As would be expected of any vehicle in this segment, the Volkswagen Passat CC exudes sexiness and elegance from every angle. No design element was overlooked on this car, starting from the gorgeous front-end with its double-cross-strutted grille with Volkswagen logo placed in the center of two trapezoidal headlamps. That is taken all the way back to the large dual-oval shaped taillights and rear spoiler embedded into the trunk lid.

The aggressive design of the front is enhanced by the large air intakes which feature integrated turn signals and fog lamps. The whole package is highlighted by a sporty front-spoiler, which serves to optimize the high-speed downforce. The sloping roofline which runs from the B-pillar back to the C-pillar gives the entire package a smooth, flowing design from front to back and is very pleasing on the eye.

As is an inherent design element with most four-door-coupes, the rear-window is shrunken, thus creating a minimal viewing field out of the rear of the car, but the overall design of this car is smooth and sleek enough to compensate for this.

As far as dimensions are concerned, the CC, certainly occupies more space than the Passat with its length of 188.9-inches, width of 73.0 inches, and height of 55.8 inches. The wheelbase however, is identical to that of the Passat, measuring in at 106.7 inches.

Interior:

Immediately one will notice the premium feel of the interior; a trait of most VW models, as the company”s use of soft-touch materials and precise assembly provide for a solid and tight interior without any shaking or give. Continuing the theme of premium interior elements, the CC offers very comfortable seats that can be upholstered in either V-Tex or leather, and are available in either solid or two-tone color schemes All trim levels include 12-way power-adjustable heated front seats with four-way power lumbar-support. The rear seats aren”t neglected either, as the rear is quite roomy and features a center console ideal for holding drinks or accessing the emergency medical kit. The fact that these seats fold down to create more cargo space is an added bonus.

The base model that we tested carried an MSRP of $27,760 and came standard with a variety of tech features including; Bluetooth connectivity with voice-control, cruise control, AUX input, three separate power outlets, push-in key ignition, Auto Hold start-off assistance, and more. Navigation featuring upgraded Dynaudio Premium Sound System is available on all but the CC Sport trim-package. In order to enjoy the 6.5-inch high-resolution touchscreen display and integrated 30GB hard-drive of the navigation system, one will have to upgrade to the $33,080 CC Luxury, $39,310 CC VR6 Sport, or the $40,420 CC VR6 4Motion. Even with the upgrade in trim, the option will run you $2,640 on top. The same is true for the Dynaudio Premium Audio System, which will run an extra $1,000.

As with most cars, your bottom line is heavily contingent upon the features you load into your vehicle. When it comes to quality and features, the standard CC still makes a great daily driver.

Performance:

The 2010 CC comes standard with a 2.0L TSI turbo 4-cylinder engine which puts out 200-hp and 207 lb-ft of torque, and if you opt for the Sport or Luxury trim packages, it is your only option, and comes mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The VR6 Sport and 4Motion both come with a 3.6L FSI V6, which puts out 280-hp and has a peak torque of 266 lb-ft. Both models come standardly equipped with a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

If you”re purchasing the CC as your daily driver, we recommend that you save your money and opt for the Sport or Luxury CC, especially considering the EPA estimated mileage of each is 22/31 (City/Highway) (the VR6 on the other hand, gets 18/27 mpg). Over the course of our test-drive, we were able to maintain 22 mpg in our CC Sport and enjoyed the comfortable yet sporty drive.

If you are a performance junkie however, keep in mind that the 2.0 TSI engine goes from 0-60 mph 6.9 seconds when mated to a manual, and 7.4 with the DSG Tiptronic. The V6 with the same DSG Tiptronic goes 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. All CC models top out at 130 mph.

The handling dynamics on the CC are one that will leave you confident when taking sharp turns, as is to be expected of many Volkswagens. Overall the CC flies down the road like you would expect any German car to do, with the added bonus of the long-legged suspension to absorb the bumps along the way.

Overall:

Going back to our original question of whether or not the Volkswagen CC is worth the extra cash over its Passat sibling ““ we”ll have to say it definitely is. With a gorgeous exterior and an interior that screams quality and design, the CC is one four-door-coupe that won”t leave your bank account feeling lonely.

Review: 2010 Volkswagen CC:

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana, Stephen Calogera

Volkswagen Passat CC

According to “sources” in German, Volkswagen is looking to expand its Passat CC range with the additions of an estate version – better known to us Americans as a station wagon.

We already know that the next-generation Passat in the United States will be replaced by the upcoming New Midsize Sedan, which will not offer an estate version. Apparently, the death of the Passat in the U.S. also means that the death of the CC.

Volkswagen hopes that the CC station wagon will fit a useful niche in the market where the CC is proving to be a hit. A final decision is expected to come in September.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

After request from customers, Volkswagen is now offering the Passat CC with an optional rear bench seating creating room for five passengers.

“The new rear bench fulfils all necessary safety aspects with its third head restraint and three-point seat belt at the centre position,” Volkswagen said in a statement. “In addition, the folding backrest is asymmetrically split, so that even larger objects can be transported effortlessly. The 3-seat rear bench system is available as an option for 100 euros.”

Volkswagen has not confirmed the five seater option for the United States… yet.

- By: Omar Rana

Volkswagen of America announced today that the 2009 Volkswagen CC received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award for 2009. To qualify for Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute’s front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control, which is standard on the CC.

“The TOP SAFETY PICK award from the IIHS is a tremendous honor for our CC,” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We are thrilled when organizations like the IIHS recognize the hard work of our engineers who are dedicated to the safety of our customers. This award further validates Volkswagen’s Prevent and Preserve Safety System approach to vehicle safety.”

The CC, like all 2009 Volkswagen models, features four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), anti-slip regulation (ASR), brake assist and electronic differential locking (EDL). 

The 2009 Volkswagen CC carries a base price-tag of $27,100 and offers an EPA certified fuel economy of 21/31 mpg (city/highway).

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Some say it will be an overgrown Jetta or that it will replace the current Passat and will look a lot like the Passat CC. Details are still unclear about a new Volkswagen upper-medium sedan that has been confirmed to be built at its new U.S. plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. However, Automotive News Europe did some digging and found out some new inside info.

The car will go into production in early 2011 and will be slightly larger than the Passat. Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn says that it will be built on an existing vehicle platform and that the sedan is “proof of Volkswagen’s future in the United States.” A future, that Winterkorn hopes brings U.S. sales to 1 million in the U.S. by 2018.

Jochem Heizmann, head of production on the new model said that it was very crucial that Volkswagen built a sedan that suits and satisfies its American consumers. He said that the sedan will be offered in a dual-clutch transmission and will come in two engine types: gasoline direct injection and direct-injection turbo-diesel.

Volkswagen expects 30 percent of the sedans to be diesel.

Volkswagen showed its new Super CC Performance Concept at the 2008 SEMA Auto Show today. Volkswagen’s design team gave the CC a sleek exterior treatment with black chrome accents and gray pearl paint. The body kit consists of a new front and rear bumper, side panels and a motorized aluminum spoiler. Inside the Super Performance CC Concept gets black leather Recaro seats and matching floor mats with white piping.

Performance wise the 2.0L TI engine has been upgraded with a APR stage 3 turbocharger with three different performance levels. On Full Power mode the car produces 311-hp with a maximum torque of 313 lb-ft; GT mode makes 252-hp and 268 lb-ft; and the Eco mode produces 222-hp with a peak torque of 236 lb-ft. When in Eco mode, the Super CC Performance Concept gets an average fuel-economy of 33/27 mpg (city/highway).

Volkswagen also added 20-inch 10-spoke wheels, an H&R coil over sports suspension kit and 14-inch Brembo brakes with 4-piston aluminum alloy brake calipers and 355x32mm 2-piece floating cross drilled discs with Billet aluminum hats.

Volkswagen Performance CC Concept:

No longer known as the Passat CC, the Volkswagen CC will go on sale at dealerships across the nation later this fall. Pricing for the CC will begin at just under $27,000.

The entry level Volkswagen CC will be badged ‘CC 2.0′ and will be powered by a 2.0 TSI engine that produces 197-hp. The range topper is powered by a 3.6 FSI V6 producing 276-hp. According to TheCarConnection, Volkswagen could be considering a diesel variant for the U.S. as well.

Product planner Brett Scott, told TCC that Volkswagen is “certainly looking” at the possibility of a diesel version of the four-door-coupe CC. Scott emphasized that nothing is official as of yet.

Volkswagen CC :

Source: TCC

Volkswagen’s new Passat CC will go on sale in North America in the fourth-quarter of 2008. Along with all the other Passat CC models, with prices starting under $27,000, Volkswagen revealed its first special-edition Passat CC model this weekend at Pebble Beach.

The Volkswagen Passat CC Gold Coast Edition adds a premium touch with Pepe Pepper exterior paint (a mix of gold, brown and silver) and a “Latte Macchiato” and “Cornsilk” leather interior trim. Other upgrades include a rear-spoiler and 19-inch wheels.

Power for the CC Gold Coast Edition comes from a 3.6 liter TFSI producing 280-hp mater to 6-speed automatic transmission.

Click through for more images.

Volkswagen Passat CC Gold Coast Edition:

Ready to hit U.S. shores this September, we expected the Volkswagen Passat CC to be accepted well by the American market, however pricing will play a huge factor on the success of the model on the state side.

Speaking to Automotive News Europe, Detlef Wittig, head of Volkswagen’s brand sales and marketing, said that the company is hoping that the U.S. will be the biggest single market for the new Passat CC. He said 60 percent of the Passat CC sales are expected to come from the U.S.

Volkswagen plans on selling 300,000 units of the four-door-coupe during its first life-cycle, which will last about seven years.

U.S. customers will not be offered technologies such as adaptive cruise control. We are crossing our fingers for the new self-parking system though. The base Passat CC will come with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp with the range-topper carrying a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276 hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission.

Pricing is expected to start around $27,000 but be prepared to cash out at least $30,000 for the CC.

2009 Volkswagen Passat CC:

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

Volkswagen has released more images of its upcoming Passat CC, or CC or whatever you want to call it. The car will arrive in the U.S. later this year with the lineup starting with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission. The Passat CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard and has the ability to do 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds.

Pricing is said to fall below $27,000

Click through for more images.

2009 Volkswagen Passat CC:

Volkswagen Passat CC at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show:

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

Volkswagen will drop the Passat name from the Passat CC when the car arrives on U.S. roads this fall. Now known as the Volkswagen CC, the four-door-coupe from V-dub will be priced below $27,000.

The CC lineup will start with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission. The CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard equipment and has the ability to do 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds. Available as an option on the CC, the “Park Assist” feature makes it the only Volkswagen that parks itself, much like the Lexus LS.

Click through for more images.

Volkswagen Passat CC Gallery:

Thanks for the tip Jake!

Source: Volkswagen

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

In an effort to stay strong in the U.S. and an ambitious plan to increase sales to 800,000 by 2018, Volkswagen is looking to offer its models to the North American market at cheaper prices. When we saw the Volkswagen Passat CC at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, we were afraid that if pricing was over $35k, it may follow in the ill-fated footsteps of the Phaeton.

In a recent interview with Automotive News, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, Stefan Jacoby, said that the Passat CC will be priced below $27,000. The CC is supposed to fit between the regular Passat at the upcoming Phaeton that may come back to the U.S. with a smaller-wheelbase and diesel options.

The Passat CC lineup will start with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission. The Passat CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard equipment and has the ability to do 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds.

Jacoby is leading the charge to turn Volkswagen around with vehicles more suitable for U.S. buyers. He is also pushing for the Polo to make it to the U.S. along with a production version of the Space Up! blue concept.

Volkswagen Passat CC Gallery:

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

So you’re all very impressed with the Lexus LS and its Self-Parking option huh? Well watch out Lexus because here comes Volkswagen with the new Passat CC, which was unveiled at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, and it also parks itself.

Available as an option on the Passat CC, the “Park Assist” feature ‘automatically guides the Passat CC into a parking space at the push of a button. The driver no longer needs to steer in this case, but instead just accelerates and brakes.’

In the U.S., the Passat CC coupe lineup will start with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission. The Passat CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard equipment and has the ability to do 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds.

Volkswagen Passat CC Gallery:

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

We just brought you live images from the 2008 NAIAS of the new Volkswagen Passat CC four-door-coupe yesterday and today we bring you the video showing the new v-dub in action.

In the U.S., the Passat CC coupe lineup will start with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. The Passat CC will go on sales in North America in the fourth quarter of 2008. Pricing is yet to be announced.

Click through for the video.

Source: WorldCarFans

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]

After many spy shots, teasers and photo renderings, Volkswagen has finally revealed it Passat based coupe. Called the Passat CC, the new V-dub will be built at the German Volkswagen plant in Emden and will go on sales in North America in the fourth quarter of 2008.

In the U.S., the Passat CC coupe lineup will start with a 2.0 TSI unit that produces 197 hp and a 3.6 FSI V6 that produces 276hp. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic Triptronic transmission. The Passat CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard equipment and has the ability to do 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds.

Pricing for the Passat CC will be announced closer to launch date.

Click through for the press release and live images from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.

Volkswagen Passat CC Gallery:

Press Release:

North American International Auto Show: World premiere of the first four-door coupé from Volkswagen

The Passat CC unifies sports car dynamics and sedan comfort First car in the world with Lane Assist lane keeping system Dynamic Drive Control electronic chassis system is standard starting at 170 PS High-class engines deliver 140 PS to 300 PS

Wolfsburg / Detroit, January 2008. Volkswagen is opening the year 2008 with the world premiere of the Passat CC. Its identifying characteristics: coupé design, yet with four doors; impressive comfort, yet pure dynamics; sporty interior, yet space without compromises. The interplay of these contrasts has resulted in a car whose concept and design set a new course beyond the mainstream. At the same time, the Passat CC is a progressive technological platform with high-class engines (103 kW / 140 PS to 220 kW / 300 PS) and innovative assistance and driving dynamics systems. These include world firsts in the “Lane Assist” lane keeping system and the “Dynamic Drive Control” electronic chassis control system. No less innovative: the “Park Assist” parking assistant and “ACC Automatic Distance Control” with stopping distance reducing “Front Assist”.

“Lane Assist”: This active lane keeping system on the Passat CC is unique worldwide in this vehicle class. It automatically countersteers as soon as the Passat CC leaves its lane unintentionally; a genuine gain in convenience and safety. About 14 percent of all accidents involving injuries are caused by the vehicle leaving its driving lane. “Lane Assist” will contribute to reducing this accident rate. By the way, if the driver sets the turn signal to intentionally change lanes, “Lane Assist” does not intervene.

“Dynamic Drive Control”: The car’s new “Dynamic Drive Control” (DDC) chassis control system combines the sportiness of a coupé and the comfort of a top sedan in one car. In parallel to tuning of the suspension’s damping characteristic, the power steering system is controlled too. “DDC” offers the three programs “Normal”, “Sport” and “Comfort”. Decisive here is the fact that Dynamic Drive Control improves comfort and dynamic properties in the “Normal” mode too ““ and therefore full-time. In certain markets, “DDC” is on-board as standard equipment on all versions starting at 125 kW / 170 PS.

“Park Assist”: Another high-end technology is the “Park Assist” parking assistance system. It automatically guides the Passat CC into a parking space at the push of a button. The driver no longer needs to steer in this case, but instead just accelerates and brakes.

“ACC Automatic Distance Control”: When “ACC” is activated, the Passat CC automatically brakes and accelerates within a speed range input by the car driver beforehand. Thanks to “Front Assist”, the system also avoids frontal collisions. It uses a radar sensor to monitor the distance to the vehicle ahead of the Passat CC. In advance of certain situations, “Front Assist” preventively places the brakes in a preconditioned state, thereby performing a stopping distance reduction function.

Furthermore, the Passat CC is putting on a whole display of fascinating fireworks with other innovative detailed solutions. These include small details that have tremendous impact. Such as the unique guide system for the side windows in the frameless coupé doors, which do not offer any surfaces for the wind to catch hold. No less impressive is the climate control feature for the car’s seats (active climate seat). Until now this comfort feature was reserved for the Phaeton luxury sedan. In summer months the active climate seat supplies noticeably improved comfort on long drives.

Another perfect example of attention to the smallest detail is the newly designed standard Mobility Tire System: from a purely statistical viewpoint car drivers experience a f lat tire every 100,000 kilometers. On the Passat CC with “Mobility Tires”, it is estimated that this value could be increased to 500,000 kilometers, since a highly f lexible rubber mixture encapsulates the penetrating object and keeps the tire sealed – also after its removal. Also providing for a plus in safety are the up to eight airbags, ESP electronic stabilization program and an extremely high-strength body.

The Passat CC is positioned in the premium range of mid-class cars, in this case the sporty sedans and coupés. However, based on its dimensions (4.8 meters length) and uncompromising layout of comfort and quality properties, the car breaks through class boundaries to the upper mid-class. Its core markets are North America, Western Europe and Japan. The Passat CC ““ built at the German Volkswagen plant in Emden ““ will initially be introduced in Europe in the second quarter of the year. Following in the fourth quarter will be the USA and Canada, then Japan.

Design and dimensions

The four-door coupé measures 4,796 millimeters in length, which is 31 millimeters more than the classic Passat. With a width of 1,856 millimeters (an extra 36 millimeters), the Passat CC already ranges in the competitive field of the upper mid-class. Similar to its width, its track width dimensions were also modified. In front it is 1,553 millimeters (an extra 11 millimeters), and in the rear 1,557 millimeters (an extra 16 millimeters). The new Volkswagen measures just 1,420 millimeters in height (lowered by 50 millimeters) ““ very sports car like.

Side profile

Especially distinctive are the f lowing lines of the car’s side profile. The roof sweeps a very f lat curve from the A pillars to far beyond the C pillars toward the rear. The lines of the trunk region even extend into the rear window, as if drawn with a single line. The side windows trace a narrow arc bordered in chrome. To further intensify the sporty styling, the side windows are guided into frameless doors. Beneath the window line, a muscular, developed shoulder line is used as a style-defining design element. Designers speak of a so-called tornado line here. In the case of the Passat CC, it forms a visual connection from the front wheel wells to the taillights; its three-dimensional expression delivers a plus in tension ““ and that may be taken literally with regard to the stability of the external metal skin. No less powerful: the strong modulation of the door above the chrome parking guard strips, the emphasis of the side skirts and the sporty, outboard wheel wells over the standard 17-inch alloy wheels. (optional 18-inch rims).

Front end

The front end of the Passat CC shows another facet of the Volkswagen brand’s face. Radiator grille, headlamps and engine hood also bring together the worlds of the sedan and coupé here. More dominant than on any other Volkswagen, the radiator grille with its two cross-struts and centrally placed VW logo extends between the trapezoidal headlamps. The grille is framed in by a surface in car color whose V-like shape represents a visual interface to the engine hood with its distinctive power dome. In the lower area, three large air inlets and integrated turn signal and fog light, left and right, dominate the visual image. The lower borders of the air inlets are formed by a sports car spoiler that optimizes the downforce of the Passat CC at higher speeds. An indicator of the Passat CC’s excellent overall aerodynamic qualities is its drag coefficient of cw 0,29.

Rear end

The rear end of the coupé is also marked by an absolutely independent design. Large-surface dual taillights produce an unmistakable visual image, day and night. A rear spoiler ““ that has been very stylishly worked into the modulation of the trunk lid ““ tames air turbulence and, like its counterpart at the front end, supplies greater downforce. The large rear window visually extends far into the short but high-opening trunk lid. It is a continuation of the coupé’s roof line. A styling trick makes the window appear even larger and the trunk lid even smaller: the trunk lid section that directly borders the glass has a black painted design element in glass look. From a purely visual perspective, it extends the glass look and thereby underscores the dynamic character of the Passat CC. In the lower section of the bumper, meanwhile, attention is drawn to the chrome trim strips, the continuation of the lateral sill panel seam, and the visible tail pipes of the exhaust system on the left and right.

Panorama vent sunroof

Newly developed for the Passat CC is an electrically actuated Panorama vent sunroof. The transparent roof is 750 millimeters long and 1,120 millimeters wide. This means that it covers the entire frontal area up to the B pillars. In this case, the front roof rail is also in black. The “Panorama power vent sunroof”, that is the proper term for it, can be raised by 30 millimeters.

INTERIOR

Four ergonomically formed sport seats, upon request with climate control; new instruments, new door trim, new radio and navigation systems

The Passat CC is a pure four-seater. The coupé philosophy is ref lected in the interior in this seat layout too. Both in front and in the rear, ergonomically designed sport seats of the highest caliber are used.

The cockpit design of the classic Passat is already considered exceptionally sporty, elegant and high-end. The coupé is also characterized by this basic styling. Newly conceptualized were the entire rear seating area, the instruments, control of the standard climate control system, the steering wheels that are offered and door trim including accent strips. Available options here include accents in genuine wood and newly developed applications of brushed aluminum. However, the decor strips in the doors not only look good: upon request their entire contours become part of a newly designed ambiance lighting system, called “ambiance package”, giving the interior an especially pleasant lighting ambiance at night.

Cockpit

A total of three new leather sport steering wheels are available for the Passat CC. They all have three spokes, where the lower spoke was designed as a kind of dual spoke with an integrated metal application. Depending on the version, the multifunction keys in the steering wheel can be used to control the trip computer, various assistance systems, the audio systems and telephone. On vehicles with automatic transmission, there is also the option of up- and downshifting by paddles in the vicinity of the two lateral spokes on the steering wheel. Also new on board is the button for controlling the “Dynamic Drive Control” system (DDC with a Normal, Comfort and Sport mode); it is located on the center tunnel just to the right of the gearshift knob.

The Passat CC is being offered with a new generation radio and navigation system. Features of the top version ““ the RNS 510 ““ include intuitive touchscreen control and a hard-disk supported navigation system. In conjunction with the “Rear Assist” parking assistance system, when driving in reverse images of the surroundings behind the Passat CC are transmitted to the screen from a
rearview camera (in the VW emblem).

Front seats

Newly developed for the standard 6-way (driver side) ““ or optional 12-way ““ power sport seats in front is a climate control feature. The new climate seat provides active ventilation of the seat and seatback surfaces, improving comfort considerably. 500 to 600 liters of air per square meter are exchanged per minute here using ventilation fan motors that are practically silent. Continuously variable control of the climate seat is offered via a separate switch in the seat base. The climate seat, always in black, is offered in conjunction with leather and fabric seat covers, and in North America with artificial leather seat covers as well. Another standard feature is a center armrest under which an air-conditioned storage compartment is located. Also integrated in the center tunnel unit are two beverage holders; they can be closed by a sliding cover when not in use.

Rear seats

Maximum long-distance ride comfort is also offered by the individual seats in the rear. Like the front seats, seat heating is an optional feature. The sport seats offer ““ and this differs from a conventional rear bench seat ““ ergonomically optimized lateral support on the sides of the seatbacks and seat surfaces. Standard features include a center armrest between the two rear seats and an additional storage compartment. As in front, this compartment has two variable beverage holders with a sliding cover to close them. When the center armrest is folded down, a pass-through feature makes it possible to stow longer objects such as skis into the trunk area with its 535 liter volume (with spare wheel well). Protecting the rear passengers from curious onlookers and the sun is an electrically controlled rear window screen. Moreover, tinted privacy glass may be ordered for the rear window and rear side windows (65 percent light absorbing).

HIGHLIGHTS OF DRIVING DYNAMICS

Lane Assist takes over lane guidance when the driver doesn’t; Dynamic Drive Control delivers even greater sportiness and comfort

Lane Assist

The Passat CC is the first car in the world to offer a lane keeping assistant, the new “Lane Assist”. The system developed by Volkswagen has the capability of assisting with a corrective steering intervention that helps to keep the car in its lane. Of course, the system does not relieve drivers of their responsibility for diligent control of the vehicle. The system is activated via the multifunctional display on the Passat CC. The driver selects the system under the menu item “Lane Assist” to activate it. As long as the driver does not deactivate the system, from that point forward “Lane Assist” takes effect starting at a speed of 65 km/h. “Lane Assist” detects lane markings via a camera in the vicinity of the inside mirror or rain sensor. It does not matter whether the lines are continuous or broken as in the case of a center stripe. “Lane Assist” also operates in darkness or fog. However, the system does not work when lane markings are not discernible.

Once “Lane Assist” has been activated, the driver is informed by a yellow indicator symbol in the shape of a lane in the instrument cluster. As soon as the camera has located the proper lane markings, the symbol lights green. Now the system is fully active. As soon as the system indicates that the car is leaving the ideal line, “Lane Assist” counters by steering in the opposite direction. Decisive here: counter-steering is very continuous and gentle. If drivers take their hands off the steering wheel completely, the system detects this and issues a warning, both acoustic and by vibration, to request that the driver resume control, and then the system switches itself off.

Similarly, the driver can “override” the “Lane Assist” steering with very little force. The lane keeping assistant does not react when the driver activates the turn signal before crossing over a lane marker either. Incidentally, “Lane Assist” functionality is only possible if the car has “controllable” electro-mechanical power steering, which is standard equipment on the Passat CC.

“Lane Assist” was developed as a convenience technology for freeway driving and drives on well-maintained country highways. The system has the potential for avoiding accidents in certain situations as well. The reason: about 14 percent of all single-car accidents with injuries involve leaving a road lane.

Dynamic Drive Control

When it comes to the chassis: a gain in truly perceptible sportiness always comes at the cost of comfort, and the opposite holds true as well. It would therefore be ideal to have a chassis that could continually adapt to roadway conditions and the specific wishes of the driver or car passengers. However, that requires an electrically adjustable suspension. The latter is offered as standard equipment on the Passat CC in certain markets beginning at a power level of 125 kW / 170 PS. Not only is the suspension’s damping characteristic controlled, but the electro-mechanical power steering is tuned as well. The name of the new system: Dynamic Drive Control, or DDC.

DDC offers three programs: “Normal”, “Sport” and “Comfort”. “Sport” and “Comfort” are selected by a pushbutton to the right of the gearshift lever. Decisive here is the fact that driving characteristics are improved by Dynamic Drive Control in the “Normal” mode too ““ and therefore continually. That is because the suspension constantly adapts to the roadway and the driving situation. DDC also reacts to acceleration, braking and steering inputs. This resolves the conflict in objectives between a stiff sporty suspension and a comfortable suspension. For drivers and their passengers this makes itself felt in significantly improved ride comfort ““ even in “Normal” mode.

In the “Sport” program, on the other hand, the Passat CC turns into an agile sports car, since the suspension is stiffened considerably; power steering assist is reduced and simultaneously has a more direct layout. The opposite is the case in “Comfort” mode. Comfort is significantly improved, especially on poor roadways and during slower driving; the suspension characteristic is then similar to that of a luxury sedan in the style of the Phaeton.

Components of the DDC system include four dampers with characteristic map control, a gateway control module that serves as an interface to the CAN data networks in the Passat CC, three sensors for measuring wheel displacements, three sensors for measuring movements of the car body and one control module for suspension control. The “Sport” and “Comfort” modes are also indicated in the instrument cluster.

ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS

Two common rail turbodiesels with 140 PS and 170 PS; three direct injection gasoline engines with 160 PS, 200 PS and 300 PS (US-Version: 280 PS)

Volkswagen will be offering the Passat CC exclusively with highly advanced direct injection engines worldwide. The gasoline engines (TSI and FSI) fulfill the EU-4 and the American ULEV2 emissions standards. The EU-5 that becomes law in 2009 will be satisfied by the turbodiesels (TDI) offered in Europe.

1.8 TSI with 160 PS

In Europe, a TSI engine with power output of 118 kW / 160 PS (at 5,000 rpm) offers entry into the world of the Passat CC. The turbocharged four-cylinder is exceptionally fuel efficient (average fuel consumption: 7.6 liters/100 km) and torque-strong (maximal 250 Newton-meter at just 1,500 rpm). With this new engine, the Passat CC reaches a speed of 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds; its top speed is 222 km/h. This TSI is shifted via a manual six-speed transmission as standard equipment; as an option it can be combined with a completely newly developed 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG).

2.0 TSI with 200 PS

At the next power level ““ in this case also in North America ““ a 147 kW / 200 PS (at 5,100 rpm) strong TSI is used. It too has a turbocharger, and it too shines with very good torque and fuel economy values. Over 100 kilometers this 280 Newton-meter (starting at 1,800 rpm) strong four-cylinder consumes just 7.9 liters of fuel. Despite this, it offers a top speed of 237 km/h. The Passat CC with this engine handles the sprint to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds. As an alternative to the standard manual six-speed transmission, a six-speed automatic is available here.

3.6 FSI with 280 PS and 300 PS

The strongest gasoline engine used in the Passat CC is a 3.6 liter displacement six cylinder delivering 220 kW / 300 PS (at 6,600 rpm). In North America this engine will be offered with a power output of 206 kW / 280 PS. The 300 PS version develops a maximum torque of 350 Newton-meter (from 2,400 rpm) and accelerates the coupé to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. Its average fuel consumption is 10.1 liters. Comparable values of the US-Version: 360 Newtonmeter at 2,500 rpm, and 6.6 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The car’s top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, the US version is limited to 210 km/h.

The Passat CC 3.6 V6 FSI is offered with full-time 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard equipment. The European version is shifted via the automated DSG dual clutch transmission. Meanwhile, a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic handles shifting work on the US variant.

2.0 TDI with 140 PS and 170 PS

In the European market, the Passat CC will also be available with TDI engines that are as economical as they are clean and torque-strong. The new common rail diesels output 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS. While the “small” TDI already develops its maximum torque of 320 Newton-meter at a low 1,750 rpm, maximum torque on the “large” TDI is even 350 Newton-meter (from 1,750 rpm). In the 140 PS version, the Passat CC accelerates to 100 km/h in 9.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 213 km/h. This contrasts with average fuel consumption of just 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers. With 170 PS the Passat CC 2.0 TDI is 227 km/h fast. The Volkswagen puts the classic sprint to 100 km/h behind it in 8.6 seconds. Also excellent is its low fuel consumption value of 6.0 liters per 100 kilometers. Either of the TDIs may be ordered with the innovative DSG dual clutch transmission as an option.

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Volkswagen[/tags]