Volkswagen's Premium Four-Door Coupe Finally Launches in Japan | Volkswagen

Volkswagen CC | Volkswagen CC

Volkswagen's Premium Four-Door Coupe Finally Launches

Volkswagen Japan will commence sales of the premium four-door coupe "CC" in Japan from today, July 24. OPENERS has already providedFumio Ogawa's Test Drive Report from Southern Francea report on this "CC," which was previously known as thePassat CCmodel, and this is its successor.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Japan Model Features 1.8-Liter TSI + 7-Speed DSG for 4.99 Million Yen

The Volkswagen "CC" is the successor to the "Passat CC" and has been redefined as a model positioned between Volkswagen's flagship sedan, the "Phaeton" (not sold in Japan), and the four-door sedan "Passat," hence the name change to "CC." In Japan, it carries the significant responsibility of being Volkswagen's flagship model.

Volkswagen's philosophy of aiming for improved environmental performance even in the premium segment is consistently applied. The engine has been further downsized from the 2.0-liter TSI engine of the "Passat CC" to a 1.8-liter TSI. It drives the front wheels with a maximum output of 118kW (160ps) at 4,500-6,200rpm and a maximum torque of 250Nm at 1,500-4,500rpm. The transmission has also been changed from a 6-speed automatic to the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission "DSG," resulting in fuel efficiency of 13.4km/ℓ (JC08 mode), surpassing the Passat CC's 11.8km/ℓ (10-15 mode). It is eligible for eco-car subsidies. Additionally, the "Volkswagen ServicePLUS" program, which covers statutory and manufacturer-recommended inspection parts and labor free of charge until the first vehicle inspection, is included as standard.

The steering wheel is equipped with paddle shifters. The "DCC (Adaptive Chassis Control)," which allows selection of the damper's damping force and the electric power steering's characteristics from three levels – "Normal," "Comfort," and "Sport" – is also standard equipment, catering to both comfortable cruising and sporty driving.

Adopts Latest Volkswagen Design for a Clearer Character

The body dimensions are 4,815mm in length, 1,855mm in width, and 1,425mm in height, essentially unchanged from the previous Passat CC. It is 30mm longer, 35mm wider, and 65mm lower than the current Passat, presenting a wide and low sporty style. The design is unified with Volkswagen's latest design language, based on horizontal lines, yet effectively utilizes curves and surfaces to achieve a soft, supple, and elegant coupe style from front to rear without relying on excessive ornamentation. This is a testament to the design prowess of Walter de Silva, the designer overseeing the styling. The tires are 18-inch, and LED lighting is used for the front positioning lamps and taillights.

The interior, adhering to Volkswagen's tradition of ergonomics, features eye-catching sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather. In addition to black, seat colors include a brown-toned Truffle & Titan Black and a black-and-white Desert Beige & Titan Black.

The front windshield has a three-layer structure that provides excellent sound insulation. Features such as seat heaters, an electric sunblind for the rear window, and ambient lighting are standard, embodying the "CC" name, which stands for Comfort Coupe, promising a comfortable cruising experience.

The enhanced safety equipment is also a key feature. Standard equipment includes a system that monitors the driver's steering input to detect fatigue and issue warnings, the "ESP (Electronic Stability Program)" for stability control, and "Cornering Lights" that illuminate the direction of travel in sync with steering input.

Furthermore, with the optional Technology Package for an additional 250,000 yen, features such as the "Front Assist" system for collision avoidance and mitigation, "Side Assist Plus" to warn of approaching vehicles from the rear, and the "Lane Keep Assist System," which uses a camera mounted at the top of the windshield to monitor lanes at speeds above 65km/h and provides steering adjustments to guide the driver, become available. Additionally, the "Adaptive Cruise Control" with full-speed range, which uses radar integrated into the front Volkswagen emblem to identify the vehicle ahead and maintain a set distance, can also be utilized.