2012 Volkswagen CC Review
2012 Volkswagen CC Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Fuel-efficient and energetic turbo four-cylinder
- well-built and stylish interior
- ample features list
- all-wheel drive on VR6 model.
Cons
- Only four seats
- limited rear-seat headroom
- smallish trunk.
What’s new
The VW CC gets a slightly revised interior for 2012, including an ornamental analog clock and wood accents on upper trims.
Edmunds says
The 2012 Volkswagen CC presents an attractive alternative to other midsize sedans, though its four-person capacity and smallish trunk may be deal breakers.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2012 Volkswagen CC Sport PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$218/mo for CC Sport PZEV
CC Sport PZEV
vs
$181/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Vehicle overview
Volkswagen is moving in an entirely new direction for the American market, so abundant size and thrifty prices will take precedence over distinctive styling and fancy-pants (but expensive) cabin materials. Perhaps it'll be a successful strategy on the sales front. But for those who don't mind paying extra for world-class construction, Germanic driving dynamics, punchy engines and memorable styling, the 2012 Volkswagen CC is a welcome remnant from VW's not-so-old school.
While the CC shares its platform, engines and dashboard design with the previous-generation Passat, it sets itself apart with a rakish four-door body that evokes a sleek coupe look (CC stands for Comfort Coupe). This not only sets it apart from the rather frumpy new Passat, but also most run-of-the-mill midsize sedans as well. Heck, we can think of several luxury-branded cars that would be lucky to look as cool as the CC.
There is a downside to this styling, however. The backseat is not only tight on headroom, but it seats only two people. That may make it more coupelike, but it also makes it less friendly for families. While most folks don't frequently require five seats, the inevitable "five in a pinch" moments put the CC at a notable disadvantage.
The CC stands apart from its new Passat sibling under the hood, as well. Though they both offer the same optional 3.6-liter V6, the CC gets a more powerful and sophisticated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as standard equipment. This is one of the best engines around, providing thrifty fuel economy and surprisingly rapid acceleration given its output. There is no turbodiesel model, though, unlike the Passat.
The 2012 VW CC may have its practical drawbacks, but overall we think they're outweighed by the car's sleek styling and quintessentially German character. The CC is a more stylish and refined alternative to family sedans like the 2012 Honda Accord, 2012 Hyundai Sonata and 2012 Passat, while a loaded-up CC can match entry-level luxury-branded vehicles like the 2012 Acura TL, 2012 Audi A4 and Infiniti G Sedan. For the right kind of buyer, this VW "relic" will be just the thing.
Performance & mpg
The 2012 VW CC 2.0T models are front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is standard on the Sport and R-Line, while a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DSG) is available on those trims and standard on the Lux trims. Despite its modest output, the energetic 2.0T engine is nevertheless capable of bringing the CC from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds with the DSG; that's about a second quicker than the typical four-cylinder midsize sedan. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined with the automatic. The manual drops the city number to 21.
The VR6 4Motion Executive gets all-wheel drive and a 3.6-liter V6 good for 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. A conventional six-speed automatic is standard. In Edmunds performance testing, it went from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17/25/20.
Safety
All Volkswagen CCs come standard with antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability and traction control, hill-hold assist, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the CC 2.0T Sport came to a stop from 60 mph in 123 feet -- an average distance, but stepping up to the 19-inch wheels and better tires that come with them betters that to an excellent 113 feet. The VR6 stopped in 124 feet. In crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the CC its top rating of "Good" for frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Driving
The 2012 Volkswagen CC neatly splits the difference between sporty handling and luxurious comfort for a ride quality that should be agreeable to a majority of drivers. The sport-tuned suspension is on the firm side, but still ably isolates passengers from all but the harshest of road imperfections. Compared to more traditional sport sedans, the CC exhibits more body roll, but handling is admirable nonetheless. The steering is light at parking-lot speeds and weights up nicely as speed increases, but it lacks the desired feedback for sporty driving.
The base 2.0-liter turbo is energetic and efficient, and should suffice for most drivers. We're particularly fond of the DSG transmission, as it shifts quickly and smoothly. Those with an appetite for more power will likely be impressed by the 3.6-liter V6, which brings the 2012 CC's acceleration closer to that of other AWD luxury rivals.
Interior
From the base Sport model to the top-of-the-line Executive trim, the 2012 Volkswagen CC shows off the luxury amenities and workmanship normally associated with premium luxury brands. The vinyl-leatherette surfaces are not only convincing but also look and feel better than some of the genuine leather found in other cars. Other interior materials are well-textured, with the majority being soft to the touch.
The front seats offer a plethora of adjustments to fit nearly any body type. Backseat headroom is limited by the sloping roof line, so taller rear passengers will find themselves slouching to fit, but average-sized adults should find these seats supportive and comfortable, with ample legroom. Rather than cram a center seat in the back, the CC's designers used that space to provide the two rear passengers with a covered bin, handy cupholders and a flip-down armrest. There should be a middle seat option, however, and this could be a deal-breaker for families.
The split-folding rear seats feature a center pass-through to add to the 13 cubic feet of trunk space, which is a bit small for a midsize sedan. As a result, a golf bag will need to lie diagonally within the trunk, limiting the ability to accommodate more cargo.
2012 Volkswagen CC models
The 2012 Volkswagen CC is a four-passenger sedan available in six trims: 2.0T Sport, 2.0T R-Line, 2.0T Lux, 2.0T Lux Plus, 2.0T Lux Limited and VR6 4Motion Executive. The 2.0T and VR6 indicate the engine type.
The Sport comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, cruise control, automatic climate control, heated eight-way power front seats with lumbar adjustment, premium vinyl "leatherette" upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a touchscreen interface, HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, an iPod interface and satellite radio.
The R-Line adds 18-inch wheels, special front bumper and side-sill designs, foglamps and dark taillights. The Lux adds to the Sport different 18-inch wheels, foglamps, heated washer nozzles, dual-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system (deletes HD radio) and brushed-aluminum interior trim. Lux Plus gets you a panoramic sunroof, a rearview camera, an upgraded navigation system, HD radio, digital music storage, mood lighting and wood trim. Lux Limited gets different 18-inch wheels and adaptive xenon headlights.
Stepping up to the VR6 4Motion Executive adds to the Lux Limited's equipment a V6 engine, all-wheel drive, headlamp washers, parking sensors, steering wheel shifter paddles, a power rear sunshade, driver memory functions, leather upholstery and a 10-speaker Dynaudio sound system.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Average
#28 out of 28 among Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Volkswagen CC from 2008-2022.$662/yr
vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.31x/yr
vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.5%
vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2012 Volkswagen CC.
5 star(63%)
4 star(19%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(7%)
54 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
Owned SAAB Turbos - CC Much Much Better
chowchow, 06/12/2011
2012 Volkswagen CC R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
Having drivern Mercedes and Audis, the CC compares very favorably to both in terms of ride, handling performance and interior features but it tops both in terms of uniqueness and looks and affordability/value.
If you are in the market for a Audi A 4 or a Merceders Benz C Class - and you do not care about the emblem on your ride - this car blends looks, ride, comfort and performance.
The … 2.0 turbo coupled with the DSG auto is far better than any SAAB turbo - I owned a 99 SAAB 9-5 2.3 LPT and a 99 SAAB 9.3 2.0 and while the 9-3 was fun to drive - it rode like a pick-up truck and offered few lux amentiies and while the 9-5 offered a refined ride and lux amenities, it was not much fun.
3.75 out of 5 stars
CC burns oil
oldlawyer, 09/19/2012
2012 Volkswagen CC Sport PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
I have had this car for 13 months and was enjoying its ride comfort, power and fuel economy when I discovered that it was burning oil at about 15,000 miles.
I complained and VW tested it then confirmed that it is burning 0.29 quarts every 1000 miles which translates to 2.9 quarts between recommended change intervals.
VW says that is okay, but automotive engineers state that it is … evidence of an engine defect.
The car is a marvel in many ways, but watch out for the oil burning: VW does not disclose this to buyers until after they have bought the car which I think is a bit sleazy.
5 out of 5 stars
Great looking car
Jeffery, 09/21/2016
2012 Volkswagen CC Lux Plus 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
I am a tall man (6'6") and have no problems with entering or exiting the car. There is plenty of leg room for a tall person like myself in the front seats but there is no leg room in the back seats with the front seats all the way back. That is no concern for me as I don't ever expect to have passengers in the rear seats. I took my first long trip of 90 miles the other day and was quite … pleased with the ride comfort. Acceleration is very impressive both on the highway and on city streets. Putting the transmission in sport mode really adds some aggressiveness to the driving experience. The interior of the car almost screams luxury with its high-quality materials and quality construction and the exterior profile of the car allows it to feel right at home being parked next to vehicles that are priced several if not tens of thousands of dollars more.
UPDATE: It's been a year since I bought my CC and I am still as impressed with it as the day I bought it. I did an unexpected 1800 mile round trip with 3 adult males and the person in the back seat was pleasantly surprised at the comfort of the ride back there. I averaged 28.5 mpg on that trip while cruising between 80 and 85 mph.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Great car alternative to many higher-priced luxury vehicles!
spindrmario, 07/14/2011
2012 Volkswagen CC Lux Plus 4dr Sedan w/Rearview Camera (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
I had been looking for a while and was in the market for an Audi A4, a number of BMW's, Infiniti and Lexus vehicles. I test drove this on a whim (the 2011 Sports model actually) and fell in love. I couldn't believe how nicely styled the car is and how much fun it was to drive. Two weeks later I went out and leased a 2012 Lux model, which added a bigger GPS screen, a harddrive for MP3s … and a tilt-only panoramic sunroof. I drive quite aggressively and regularly get nearly 30 MPG. The car is unique and I receive many compliments on it from strangers and have seen only a handful on the road so far. It drives, feels and sounds like a much more expensive car and I wholly recommend the CC.
2012 CC Highlights
Sport PZEV
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $28,515 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $218/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the CC include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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