| All-New Model Preview | 2008 Detroit Auto Show | VW Passat CC |
Meet VW's answer to the Mercedes-Benz CLS. It's called the Passat CC, this lithe four-door saloon debuting at the
Detroit motorshow this week. Volkswagen suggests its new model offers coupé-like style in a four-door body, aiming to compete with rivals like the
BMW 3 Series and
Mercedes C-Class. Its CC name might suggest a folding hardtop, but the CC's roof is firmly fixed in place, its swooping line incorporating a large panoramic glass area.
VW says the Passat CC is 31mm longer and 36mm wider than the standard saloon and the CC's front and rear tracks are also wider to improve its stance and road holding. Every panel on the Passat CC is new, the bold door panel creases adding yet more perceived curviness to the CC's profile.
Inside, there's a choice of wood or aluminium finishes, each complemented by new interior lighting effects. The Phaeton's hot-cold seating technology features, with a new steering wheel and optional touch screen satnav also available. Dynamic Drive Control is new and it stiffens up the CC's suspension while a new Lane Assist system warns drivers when they wander across white lines on the road.
When it hits UK showrooms in late summer this year, the four-seater Passat CC will be available with a choice of two new common rail diesel units and three petrol engines, including the 298bhp 3.6-litre, V6 TFSI - capable of shooting the CC from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds and on to a 155mph top speed. The range-topper will come with VW's 4MOTION four-wheel drive system and a six-speed DSG 'box as standard.
More details on pricing and specifications will be revealed closer to its UK release.
Kyle Molyneux - 16 Jan 2008