2009-2013 Volkswagen CC 3.6L

Overview

The Volkswagen CC, originally marketed as the Passat CC, debuted as a four-door coupe variant of the sixth-generation Passat. Introduced to the North American market for the 2009 model year, the vehicle aimed to bridge the gap between the mainstream Passat and the premium offerings from Audi. Its design prioritized aesthetics, featuring a lower roofline, frameless door glass, and a more aggressive stance than its sedan counterpart. By positioning the CC as a style-focused alternative, Volkswagen targeted buyers who desired the visual appeal of a luxury coupe without sacrificing the utility of a four-door configuration.

Under the hood, the 3.6L VR6 engine served as the top-tier powertrain for the 2009-2013 model years. This narrow-angle V6 engine provided a distinct power delivery and acoustic profile compared to the standard turbocharged four-cylinder options. While the base models utilized front-wheel drive, the 3.6L variant was frequently paired with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system in later years, though early 2009-2010 models were available in front-wheel-drive configurations. Manufactured in Emden, Germany, the CC utilized the PQ46 platform, sharing significant mechanical architecture with the B6 Passat while receiving unique suspension tuning to emphasize handling dynamics.

Throughout its production run, the CC maintained a reputation for high-quality interior materials and a sophisticated cabin environment. Despite its success in establishing a new niche for the brand, the CC faced challenges regarding rear-seat headroom due to its sloping roofline. The model underwent a significant exterior refresh in 2013, which aligned its front and rear styling with the broader Volkswagen design language of that era. Today, the CC is recognized as a precursor to the modern trend of “four-door coupes” and remains a notable example of Volkswagen’s attempt to move upmarket during the late 2000s.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	CC
Model Year	2009-2013
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	VR6 Sport / VR6 Executive
Body Style	4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ46
Assembly Plant	Emden, Germany
Country of Origin	Germany
Production Start	2008
Production End	2017
VIN Identifier	WVW
Base MSRP	$38,000
Destination Charge	$820
Total MSRP	$38,820
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	3.6L FSI
Engine Code	BLV
Engine Configuration	V6
Displacement	3.6 Liters
Bore x Stroke	89.0 mm x 96.4 mm
Compression Ratio	11.4:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	5.8 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	280 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	265 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	3.22:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91+
EPA City MPG	18
EPA Highway MPG	27
EPA Combined MPG	21
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	11.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.5
Estimated Driving Range	388 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,850
CO₂ Emissions	420 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	2.4 seconds
0-60 mph	6.2 seconds
0-100 mph	15.8 seconds
Quarter Mile	14.7 seconds
Top Speed	155 mph (governed)
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	124 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.84g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	12.5 lbs/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	188.9
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	73.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	82.0
Height (in)	55.8
Wheelbase (in)	106.7
Front Track (in)	61.1
Rear Track (in)	61.4
Ground Clearance (in)	5.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,500
GVWR (lbs)	4,600
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,100
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	91.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	13.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	36.7 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.5-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with Multi-Function Display
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	Dynaudio Premium
Speaker Count	10
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 4.15, 2nd: 2.37, 3rd: 1.56, 4th: 1.16, 5th: 0.86, 6th: 0.69
Differential Type	Open with EDL
Cooling System Capacity	9.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2009-2013 Volkswagen CC 3.6L occupies a unique space in the used car market, offering high-end styling and a robust VR6 engine at a fraction of its original MSRP. Reliability for this model is generally tied to consistent maintenance, particularly concerning the direct-injection fuel system and the Aisin-sourced automatic transmission, which requires periodic fluid changes to ensure longevity. Prospective buyers should inspect the timing chain tensioners, as these are known wear items on the VR6 engine that can lead to costly repairs if ignored. While the CC lacks modern connectivity features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, its interior build quality and driving dynamics remain competitive for its age. It serves as an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a stylish, comfortable cruiser, provided they budget for the specialized maintenance required by German luxury-adjacent vehicles.