The Volkswagen Passat CC, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2012 to 2015, represented a stylish and practical offering in the four-door coupe segment. This variant, powered by a 2.0-liter TDI engine producing 140 horsepower and paired with a dual-clutch DSG transmission incorporating Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance. It occupied a mid-range position within the CC lineup, slotting between the lower-powered petrol engines and the more potent, higher-specification diesel options. The CC itself was based on the Volkswagen B6 Passat platform, but distinguished by its more dramatically sloping roofline and coupe-like profile.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat CC |
| Generation | CC I (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DSG SCR |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBAB, CFFB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1489 kg (3282.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 501 kg (1104.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 532 l (18.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4802 mm (189.06 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2090 mm (82.28 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2711 mm (106.73 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 235/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this CC variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, identified by engine codes CBAB or CFFB. This engine belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family and features common-rail direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and four valves per cylinder. The common-rail system, operating at very high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimized combustion. The turbocharger boosts power output, while the intercooler cools the intake air, further enhancing efficiency. The SCR system, utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid), reduces NOx emissions, ensuring compliance with Euro 5 standards. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The engine is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DSG operates by pre-selecting the next gear, allowing for near-instantaneous shifts. Unlike a traditional automatic, it doesn’t rely on a torque converter, resulting in a more direct connection between the engine and the wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque provided by this engine and transmission combination deliver adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.3 seconds, and the top speed is 131.73 mph. The DSG transmission helps to maximize the available power, providing responsive acceleration in most driving situations. However, compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI variants (typically around 170-177 hp) or the petrol-powered CCs, this version feels noticeably less brisk. The focus is more on relaxed cruising and fuel efficiency than outright speed. The DSG transmission’s programming prioritizes smooth shifts and fuel economy over aggressive gear changes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp DSG SCR typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included climate control, alloy wheels (usually 17-inch), a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced navigation system. The interior design was generally understated and functional, with a focus on build quality and ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The CC’s chassis features independent suspension at the front (MacPherson struts) and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp DSG SCR variant of the Passat CC was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and economical choice. It offered a good balance between performance, fuel economy, and practicality. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of the more powerful engine options. Compared to the petrol engines, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy. Against the higher-powered TDI models, it represented a more affordable entry point into the CC range, appealing to buyers who prioritized efficiency over outright speed.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, these Volkswagen engines, when properly maintained, are known for their longevity. The DSG transmission, while more complex than a traditional automatic, is also generally reliable, although regular servicing (fluid changes) is crucial. In the used car market, this CC variant represents a good value proposition, offering a stylish and comfortable coupe at a relatively affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance and AdBlue refills.
