WASHINGTON — The 2014 Volkswagen CC R- line is a fun-to-drive sports sedan that has the looks and a price that seems like a good value, but some head-room space may deter some test drivers.
The Volkswagen CC R-line transforms the look of the car to a true sports sedan with sporty 18-inch wheels and a more aggressive front bumper. The lower side skirts set the car apart.
I was really surprised by just how much the different wheels and bumper changed the look — it made the sedan look more expensive than its $34,000 price tag.
The Volkswagen CC is available in four trim levels with a base price of around $32,000 all the way to $43,000 with a V6 and AWD.
I spent a week commuting and taking short road trips with the CC R-line, the second of four trim levels. I found the interior nice, including the black heated leatherette seats. I had to look at the window sticker to tell it wasn’t real leather. Nice job, Volkswagen; you had me fooled.
The seats were very comfortable, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel was a pleasure to hold. The navigation was easy to use, but the screen seemed a little small.
While good-looking, the coupe-like body style poses a bit of a problem. Watch your head when getting in and out using the back doors. It was also a bit tricky getting the car seat into the vehicle.
Still, the CC R-line 2.0 turbo four-cylinder engine was peppy and seemed like it had more than just 200hp. There wasn’t much turbo lag and the engine wasn’t too loud when accelerating.
The CC will cruise comfortably for hours, or you can throw a curve or two in its way and have a little fun. You can have your CC R-line with a six-speed manual transmission or the no-charge 6-speed DSG auto transmission with which my car was equipped.
I have to admit, the DSG transmission feels like a manual transmission when starting from a stop. You can feel the sensation of letting off the clutch and starting. I like the DSG auto transmission, but I’m a “row your own gears” guy.
I’m glad to see Volkswagen gives you a choice. The fuel mileage isn’t bad either. I managed 26.4 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. It could cost you more, though, since you have to fill with premium fuel.
Also, with included scheduled maintenance for two years, it will be easy on your wallet in that regard.
Just tell your friends who ride in the back to watch their heads when getting in; you don’t want to mess up your pretty new car.
Editor’s Note: Mike Parris is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association. The vehicles are provided by STI ,FMI or Event Solutions for the purpose of this review.
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