Volkswagen CC 1.8 TSI Test Drive Review

As introduction to Volkswagen CC, the 4-door coupe version of Volkswagen Passat is facelifted in third quarter of 2012 in Malaysia. It is now known as CC instead of Passat CC.

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Previously, the pre-facelift model of Passat CC in Malaysia is powered by 200PS 2.0-litre TSI engine. After the facelift, the CC is now powered by 160PS 1.8-litre TSI engine instead. Is the engines between 160PS 1.8-litre and 200PS 2.0-litre makes a difference? The answer is yes, in both performance and fuel efficiency.

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General speaking, Volkswagen CC is similar to Passat B7 besides having a sleeker and dynamic body styling. For Malaysian market, Volkswagen introduces two variants for CC – 1.8 TSI ‘Comfortline’ and 1.8 TSI ‘Sportline’. Apart from that, the CC is added with Adaptive Chassis Control and dual electric adjustable front seats comparing to the Passat. In addition, the CC share a similar cockpit design with the Passat.

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The power plant of the Volkswagen CC 1.8 TSI fitted with a combination of 160PS 1.8-litre TSI EA888 engine and 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). The Volkswagen CC is compatible with RON95 unleaded fuel and capable to fill up to 70 litres within a single tank. Although the Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 TSI is locally assembled in Malaysia, but the CC is still fully imported from Germany.

Based on the spec sheet, the CC is claimed to be capable to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds. However, I can feel the CC is a little heavier comparing to the Passat B7 1.8 TSI, especially at the low range. The kerb weight for CC 1.8 TSI is 1,521kg, while 1,517kg for Passat 1.8 TSI B7. Somehow, the unconvincing performance must be something to do with the extra weight and tiny 1.8 engine. Personally, I preferred the Passat B7 1.8 TSI more.

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The Volkswagen CC ‘Sportline’ is upgraded from ‘Comfortline’ with brushed dark alumimium decorative inserts for dashboard and door trim panels, upgraded in-car entertainment with DYNAUDIO ‘Confidence’ 10 speakers and 600W premium sound system, ‘Interlagos’ 8J x 18” alloy wheels with self-sealing tyres 235/40 R18, panoramic tilting glass roof, ‘KESSY’ keyless entry and starting system, and ‘Rear Assist’ rear view camera.

The Volkswagen CC ‘Comfortline’ is fitted with 235/45 R17, while the ‘Sportline’ with 235/40 R18. Basically, the width and rims offset are the same but the rims are 1-inch larger in diameter.

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Drawback? I found this 4-door coupe doesn’t come with any roof handles at all corners and the rear headroom is pretty tight as well. Perhaps this is due to its low roofing design.

Do check out the photos of the new Volkswagen CC ‘Sportline’ which I have tested on the below. The Volkswagen CC Comfortline priced at RM 225,888.00, while the CC Sportline priced at RM 243,888.00 in Peninsular Malaysia. Standard across all Volkswagen Cars in Malaysia from Volkswagen Group Malaysia, the car comes with 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and 5-year mobility guarantee for total peace of mind motoring and enjoyment.

Our rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ 7.25/10

Performance:  ★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆ 5/10
Exterior:   ★★★★★★★★☆☆ 8/10
Interior:   ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ 7/10
Safety:    ★★★★★★★★★☆ 9/10

Photo Gallery: Volkswagen CC 1.8 TSI Malaysia

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