The Volkswagen Passat CC, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2012 to 2015, represented Volkswagen’s foray into the four-door coupe market. This variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter TDI engine producing 177 horsepower and paired with a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a dual-clutch DSG transmission, was positioned as a premium offering within the Passat CC lineup. It aimed to blend practicality with a more sporting aesthetic and enhanced all-weather capability. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2013 to 2015, building upon the foundation of the original CC (Typ 357) introduced in 2008, which itself was based on the B6 Passat platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat CC |
| Generation | CC I (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (177 Hp) 4MOTION DSG 5 Seat |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CFGC |
| 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) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 532 l (18.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4802 mm (189.06 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2090 mm (82.28 in.) |
| Height | 1421 mm (55.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2710 mm (106.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Passat CC variant is the CFGC engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase power output and improve efficiency. The engine produces 177 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong mid-range acceleration. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission known for its quick and smooth shifts. It operates similarly to two manual gearboxes in one, providing both automatic and manual shifting capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 2.0 TDI engine, 4MOTION all-wheel drive, and DSG transmission results in a refined and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.9 seconds, making it reasonably quick for a mid-size coupe. The 4MOTION system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The DSG transmission contributes to seamless gear changes, and the broad torque band of the engine means that strong acceleration is readily available. Compared to the base 1.8L gasoline engine Passat CC models, this TDI variant offers significantly more torque and better fuel economy. While not as sporty as the higher-output gasoline models, it provides a good balance of performance and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. This often included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, alloy wheels, and parking sensors. Optional extras could include a sunroof, navigation system, premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. The interior design focused on providing a comfortable and upscale environment, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The Passat CC aimed to offer a more premium experience than the standard Passat sedan.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat CC’s chassis is based on the B6 Passat platform, featuring independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing braking performance and safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat CC 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and strong performance. The fuel economy of the diesel engine was also a significant selling point. Compared to other trims in the Passat CC lineup, this variant offered a more refined and capable driving experience, particularly in inclement weather. However, the higher price tag compared to the base models was a potential drawback for some buyers. It competed with other premium mid-size coupes, such as the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 3 Series Gran Coupe.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine with the DSG transmission has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including timely DPF regeneration. The DSG transmission, while sophisticated, can be prone to issues if not properly serviced. In the used car market, these Passat CCs are often sought after for their blend of style, comfort, and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the diesel engine and DSG transmission. The Passat CC, in general, helped establish Volkswagen as a maker of more stylish and sophisticated vehicles, paving the way for future models like the Arteon.
