2014 Volkswagen CC

First introduced for 2009, the Volkswagen CC got revised front and rear styling for 2013, along with a more usable rear center seat, which allows the CC to seat five, unlike prior CC models, which only had room for four. The 2014 Volkswagen CC gets a few updates: navigation comes standard, with six-month, no-charge trial of VW Car-Net connected services. Those security/convenience features include automatic crash notification, roadside assistance, and stolen vehicle location assistance, as well as remote vehicle access and boundary/speed alerts. A vehicle health report also is part of the service.

Also new for 2014, the Volkswagen CC 2.0T Executive trim level joins the lineup, with many of the features found on the top-of-the-line Volkwagen CC VR6 4Motion Executive model. Among them: leather seating surfaces, ebony interior trim, a sunroof, rearview camera, premium navigation system, keyless access and pushbutton start, and 18-nich alloy wheels. All Executive models now have a hands-free trunk, which opens with the swipe of one's foot under the back bumper.

As with most Volkswagens, the CC interior design is stylish, yet simple, with high-quality materials. The cabin feels racy due to the steeply raked windshield and distant dashboard. It's cozy inside, and there isn't as much front legroom as in the Acura TSX, Nissan Maxima or Lexus IS. Cargo space is small for the class, comparable to that of the Lexus IS.

Volkswagen CC comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. On our test drives, we found it powerful and smooth. The Sport model has front-wheel drive and is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic Direct Shift Gearbox.

At the top of the line, the Volkswagen CC VR6 4Motion Executive is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 rated at 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.

Built on the Passat platform, the Volkswagen CC is a cooler-looking alternative to its more traditional sedan sibling. However, its chic styling takes a toll on practicality. The low roofline makes for greatly reduced rear headroom, and the cabin generally has a less spacious feel all around. But for those who don't mind the cozy dimensions, the Volkswagen CC is a sophisticated alternative in a sea of vanilla midsize sedans.

The 2014 Volkswagen CC walks the line between affordable family sedan and entry-level luxury car. It's a more upscale alternative to traditional four-doors such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Volkswagen Passat, yet in the higher trim levels can also go head-to-head with premium models such as the Audi A4 and Acura TLX and Infiniti Q50 sedan.
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