The Volkswagen CC’s stylized sweeping roofline, dramatic body detailing, low-to-the-ground stance, and elegant frameless side windows, offers expressive, head-turning coupe-like design that is usually seen only in premium, high priced European cars for the cost of a traditional sedan.
New for 2016
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
The addition of a new infotainment system for 2016 provides a comprehensive suite of connectivity features. Volkswagen Group of America is one of the first in the industry to support all three available connected car systems: Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®. The new MIB II system offers USB and VW-Car Net® App-Connect, allowing owners with these systems to access select apps from their smartphones directly through the vehicle’s head unit. VW Car-Net’s connected vehicle services umbrella also includes connected car services, advanced telematics, and enhanced navigation available by subscription.
Lowering the price of entry to the CC lineup, the new 2.0T Trend model comes equipped with Bi-Xenon headlights with Daytime Running Lights; LED taillights; front foglights with chrome trim; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; 12-way heated and power adjustable front seats; leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and parking brake; a 6.3-inch MIB II touchscreen radio with USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect; rearview camera; and a six-speed manual transmission.
For 2016, the already well-equipped 2.0T Sport and R-Line® models add Keyless entry and push-button start. Two new R-Line trims join the lineup: The Executive model adds to the R-Line content with 18-inch Montauk aluminum-alloy wheels; black window moldings, mirror caps and grille accents; ambient lighting; panoramic sunroof; and leather seating surfaces. The Executive w/ Carbon model adds carbon leather seating surfaces and carbon décor and removes ambient lighting.
The 3.6L VR6 4Motion Executive model gets new 18-inch Shanghai aluminum-alloy wheels andadds the following driver assistance features: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) and Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist).
Exterior
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
At the front of the car, one’s eye is drawn to the CC’s radiator grille, Bi-Xenon headlights, and hood design, which correspond closely to the clean lines of Volkswagen’s “design DNA”—with an emphasis on horizontal lines and precise harmony between the headlights and radiator grille. Like the Passat, the CC also has an extra air intake in the lower section of the bumper. Foglights, included on Sport and higher trims, are housed inside “winglets” that are integrated in this intake.
The striking headlights on the CC feature Bi-Xenon technology. LED Daytime Running Lights, included on Sport and higher trims, are integrated in the headlight design and the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS)—which can turn the beams by up to 15 degrees around corners to help increase visibility—is also featured.
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
At the rear, the CC’s distinctive LED taillights finish with a horizontal sweep at their lower ends. The distinctive look of these lights makes the CC unmistakable from the rear, day or night. The license plate is illuminated with LED lighting as well.
Compared with the Trend and Sport models, the R-Line gains a more aggressive front bumper design that incorporates a large lower air intake and projector-style foglights that have a striking chrome motif. Side skirts and the R-Line logo on the grille further differentiate it from the Sport model, along with unique and dramatic 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Interior
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
The CC’s cabin is as stylish and design-led as its bold exterior. Each CC model features a blend of luxurious materials, rich textures, and intuitive controls. V-Tex Leatherette or leather seating surfaces are offered and are available in both solid and two-tone color schemes. The front seats are heatable and come with standard 12-way power adjustment, including four-way power lumbar and adjustment for height. Electronic seat ventilation is included on the front seats of the VR6 4Motion Executive model.
Up front, a leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel features integrated controls for the CC’s multimedia system. The gauges are surrounded by chrome trim, which extends through the CC Sport range, while the R-Line Executive and VR6® models feature engineered ebony trim. The R-Line features stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates, and the DSG® equipped model sports paddle shifters on its multifunction steering wheel.
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
All CC models feature the Climatronic® automatic climate control system. Typical of the attention to detail in the CC, the system features a humidity sensor located near the rear-view mirror. This measures air humidity and controls the Climatronic system to help prevent condensation and maintain the relative humidity in the passenger compartment at a pleasant level. Another benefit of the system is that the humidity sensor permits operation of the air conditioning compressor only when needed.
For the flagship VR6 4Motion model, there’s a remarkable Dynaudio® premium sound system, with 10-speakers (four tweeters, two midrange, four woofers) powered by a 600-watt amplifier and Digital Sound Processor (DSP) technology.
To add to the versatility and flexibility of the CC, the rear seatback is split 60/40 and folds forward to connect the trunk to the cabin to increase load space. There’s also a pass-through behind the armrest to accommodate longer items, like skis. Another interior feature is remote latching for the rear seatback. Levers mounted under the rear shelf on the right and left sides of the trunk make it easy to unlatch both sections of the split seatback. The trunk itself has a capacity of 13.2 cubic feet.
One of the most significant advances in the 2016 CC comes in the form of its new MIB II touchscreen infotainment system. The all-new infotainment system not only creates the foundation for the next generation of Volkswagen’s Car-Net connected vehicle services platform, but also offers one of the most comprehensive suites of connected vehicle services and features available in the automotive industry today. Features available through the new Car-Net are divided into three key areas, “App-Connect,” “Security & Service,” and “Guide & Inform.”
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
App-Connect. The Composition Media unit is available on the Trend model. Featuring an 800×480 capacitive color touch display with proximity sensor, with a 6.5-inch screen, standard features include AUX-in, SD card slots, and a USB multimedia interface with Apple iPhone® and iPod® compatibility, reverse camera display, and Bluetooth® technology with the ability to send and receive SMS text messages with compatible phones, sync two phones simultaneously, App-Connect smartphone integration, two SD card slots, and a JPEG viewer, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, HD Radio and support for lossless audio file format (Free Lossless Audio Codec FLAC).
Sport, R-Line and VR6 models feature the Discover Media unit, which captures the features available in the previous two units and adds 2.5D Navigation, one-shot voice destination entry, predicts possible destinations based on often used routes, and Destination Entry with Quick Search and Auto-complete, and Car-Net Guide & Inform.
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
Security & Service. Consumers have the ability to access the Car-Net Security & Service suite through the innovative online Customer Web Portal as well as an advanced app for smartphones, providing access to all the features available from virtually anywhere your mobile device is connected to wireless internet.
Available security related features include Automatic Crash Notification, which automatically notifies an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of an collision; Manual Emergency Call, a feature that allows for quick access to customer specialists at the touch of a button; Roadside Assistance, for added peace-of-mind in the event of trouble on the road; and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance, which uses Car-Net Security & Service to assist law enforcement with locating your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
In addition, VW Car-Net Security & Service offers other new features for 2016 model year including new layers of convenience such as remote vehicle access, remote door lock and unlock, remote honk and flash (of lights), last parked location information, and remote status check (doors and windows). Consumers will also be able to send a location from their connected smart device to the factory-installed compatible navigation system on select models. For consumers that prefer a more personal touch, agent destination assist is also available.
The Car-Net Security & Service also offers Family Guardian, a suite of features that help families. Features including speed alert, which notifies the owner of the vehicle when the pre-determined maximum speed limit is exceeded; and boundary alert, which lets you know when the vehicle has traveled outside of a pre-set virtual boundary.
Diagnostics and maintenance information is also available through Car-Net. A Vehicle Health Report allows Volkswagen customers to quickly check to see if their vehicle is in proper running order. When it’s time for scheduled service, Car-Net Security & Service not only notifies the customer, but provides a simple way to schedule a dealer visit. It can even identify the closest dealer in case you need a recommendation.
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
Available later this year, the VW Car-Net app for Apple Watch will allow VW customers to control a host of features and functions available through the iPhone app and Customer Web Portal, directly from their wrist. Apple Watch wearers can keep an eye on their vehicle from afar, remotely locking and unlocking doors and viewing the status of doors, windows and sunroof (open or closed). Consumers will also be able to find a parked vehicle quickly, with a map of the current vehicle location, walking or driving directions to the vehicle, and the ability to honk the horn and flash the lights remotely. Drivers will be able to check their fuel level right from the Apple Watch as well. As with the Car-Net app for iPhone, Apple Watch wearers will also be able to receive alerts directly to their Apple Watch from the app.
Guide & Inform. Car-Net Guide & Inform offers an enhanced navigation and infotainment experience for VW consumers. Volkswagen has incorporated technologies that enhance existing navigation offerings while adding an additional level of information that empowers consumers.
Satellite navigation is refined with Car-Net Guide & Inform, incorporating several layers of information right onto the screen. MIB II-equipped Volkswagen models with in-vehicle navigation systems will now feature real-time fuel prices, sports scores, movie information and weather data as part of the three month SiriusXM Travel Link trial. VW customers will also enjoy real-time traffic information and a complimentary four-year SiriusXM Traffic trial.
Customers purchasing new Volkswagen models equipped with VW Car-Net connected vehicle services (not including App-Connect) will receive a no-charge trial for six months after purchase. To extend the benefits of this connectivity system, customers can choose from a number of VW Car-Net payment options: 1 year, for $199; 2 years for $378; 3 years for $540; or, month-to-month, for $17.99. App-Connect can be used free-of-charge and is not included as part of the subscription-based services.
Powertrains
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
The CC features the award-winning, 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected TSI® four-cylinder engine that generates 200 horsepower or the 3.6-liter narrow-angle VR6 engine that produces 280 horsepower.
All 2.0-liter models are front-wheel drive. The 2.0-liter engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The six-speed transversely-mounted DSG unit features two wet clutches with hydraulic pressure regulation. One clutch controls the ‘odd’ gears—first, third, fifth, and reverse—while the other operates the even gears. With DSG, the set-up allows the next-higher gear to be engaged, but remain on standby until it is actually selected. In other words, if the CC is being driven in third gear, fourth is selected but not yet activated. As soon as the ideal shift point is reached, the clutch on the third-gear side opens, the other clutch closes and fourth gear engages under accurate electronic supervision.
Since the opening and closing actions of the two clutches overlap, a smooth gearshift results and the entire shift process is completed in less than four-hundredths of a second. In addition to its fully automatic shift mode, DSG has a Tiptronic® function to permit manual gear selection. Mated to the manual transmission, the 2.0T achieves EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
The VR6 engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic shifting and paddle shifters, driving through all four wheels. Producing 265 lb-ft of torque, the 3.6-liter VR6 offers refined, responsive performance. The EPA estimated fuel economy numbers are 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Chassis
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
All CC models are equipped with a sport-tuned suspension to satisfy the driver looking for lively, involving handling coupled with a smooth, comfortable ride for daily driving.
Up front, there’s a strut-type suspension with coil springs and telescopic dampers, low-mounted lightweight forged-aluminum control arms, and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, the CC has a compact multilink coil-sprung suspension with upper and lower transverse arms and a longitudinal link on each side to control wheel location. It’s a sophisticated arrangement that helps deliver controllable, dynamic handling with a comfortable ride and reduced body roll.
The rear suspension components are mounted in a subframe made of high-tensile steel to help reduce weight and increase rigidity. The subframe is also acoustically decoupled from CC’s bodyshell to aid in significantly lessening road noise and vibration.
An electro-mechanical, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system with variable speed assistance helps ensure driver confidence. Advantages of the system include its mild self-centering action and its ability to help compensate for different driving hazards such as crosswinds and steep road cambers as it dispenses with the usual engine-driven pump.
Braking is controlled by the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with a special wiping feature that helps keep the discs dry and clean for quicker response on wet roads. The 2.0T models are fitted with 12.3-inch vented discs up front, and solid 11.1-inch rotors for the rear. The VR6 model moves up to 13.4-inch vented discs for the front and 12.2-inch solid rotors at the back.
4Motion® All-wheel-drive System
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
The flagship CC model comes standard with Volkswagen’s proven 4Motion all-wheel-drive system for even more dynamic handling and nearly all-weather traction.
The system delivers drive to all four wheels without any buttons to press or levers to pull. A Haldex® center differential can continuously vary the drive force between the front and rear axles depending on the traction available. When accelerating hard from standstill, for example, front-wheel slip is prevented by the system’s ability to direct nearly 100 percent of the drive torque to the rear wheels. The 4Motion system also helps provide sure-footed traction over a variety of surfaces, as well as optimum straight-line stability, even in crosswinds.
Safety
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
Safety and security in the CC starts with a strong, rigid, laser-seam-welded bodyshell and crash-optimized, energy-absorbing front end. For those inside, there’s the protection of a suite of airbags that includes front and side thorax airbags from the driver and front seat passenger, and Side Curtain Protection® head airbags for those in both the front and rear seats. Three-point safety belts have belt-force limiters for all the seats.
The CC also features include front head restraints that adjust fore-and-aft as well as up-and-down. In this design, the head restraint can be pulled forward and, because it lies closer to the head, further helps reduce the risk of whiplash in a crash.
A number of aids and enhancements work seamlessly with the CC’s drivetrain and suspension to help get the car and its occupants to their destination safely. They include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and Engine Braking Assist (EBA).
The CC also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that can shut off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.
Driver Assistance Systems
2016 Volkswagen CC © Volkswagen AG
The 3.6L VR6 4Motion Executive model receives Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) and Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist).
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses forward facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can use the accelerator, brake pedal, or steering wheel to cancel or override the ACC function. All system messages appear in the central multifunction display.
When the roadway ahead of the vehicle is empty, the system maintains the set speed. CC models fitted with automatic transmissions and ACC can match a vehicle in front and come to a stop, as well as resume ACC control after the driver presses the accelerator pedal or the “resume” button on the steering wheel.
The Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) system helps warn the driver of critical front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster, and, if necessary, Autonomous Emergency Braking is activated to slow the vehicle if the driver fails to brake. If the brake pedal is applied but the driver brakes too lightly, the brake pressure is increased by the system (Braking Support).
Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist) actively helps countersteer to keep the vehicle in the lane above 40 mph, if there is an indication that the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane. The system’s camera recognizes visible lane markings (one side suffices) and, using a special algorithm, calculates the risk of the car leaving the lane. If the driver takes their hands off the wheel for a defined period of time, or the vehicle crosses a lane marking without use of a turn signal, the system provides an audible warning and a visual signal in the instrument cluster, asking the driver to take over.
The system works in the dark and/or in fog, but will not engage if it cannot properly detect lane markings. If the turn signal has been set before crossing a lane marking, the Lane Departure Warning system will not engage or give a warning. The driver can “override” the system at any time by applying minimal force, and is not relieved of responsibility to make conscious driving decisions.
Limited Warranty
The 2016 CC is offered with Volkswagen’s five-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty.
Model Line-up
2.0T Trend
The 2.0T Trend provides entry to the 2015 CC model range at a base price of $31,570 (plus $865 destination and delivery). Standard equipment includes 17-inch “Spa” aluminum-alloy wheels with all-season self-sealing tires; Bi-Xenon headlights with Daytime Running Lights; LED taillights; LED license-plate illumination; rain-sensing windshield wipers; Climatronic automatic climate-control; heatable 12-way power front seats; MIB II Composition Media touchscreen infotainment system with USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect; rearview camera; Bluetooth technology; SirusXM Satellite Radio; and V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual with the option of a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic ($1,100).
2.0T Sport
The 2.0T Sport, which starts at $34,475, builds on the Trend features and adds: 17-inch “Verme” aluminum-alloy wheels; Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS); foglights with cornering light function; Keyless entry with push-button start; MIB II Discover Media touchscreen navigation system with USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect; VW Car-Net connected vehicle services; and a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.
2.0T R-Line
The 2.0T R-Line, which starts at $34,655, takes the Sport features and heightens the CC’s performance styling with unique 18-inch aluminum-alloy “Mallory” wheels; a more aggressive front bumper treatment; side skirts; and R-Line® door sill plates. The multifunction steering wheel features paddle shifters for the optional dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission ($1,100).
2.0T R-Line Executive
The 2.0T R-Line Executive builds on the R-Line model’s extensive standard features and adds: a six-speed DSG automatic transmission; 18-inch “Montauk” aluminum-alloy wheels; black window moldings, mirror caps and grille accents; leather seating surfaces; ambient lighting; and panoramic, power tilting sunroof. The model starts at $37,820.
2.0T R-Line Executive w/ Carbon
The 2.0T R-Line Executive w/ Carbon includes carbon leather seating surfaces and carbon décor and deletes ambient lighting. The model starts at $37,820.
3.6L VR6 4Motion Executive
The 3.6L VR6 4Motion Executive features the 280-hp, 3.6-liter VR6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The starting price is $44,355. Compared with the 2.0T R-Line Executive, it adds a headlight washer system with heated nozzles; “Shanghai” 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; memory and ventilation for front seats with driver’s seat with massage function; Park Distance Control (Park Pilot); Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist); Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist); Dynaudio Premium Sound System; and a power rear sunshade.
