2008 Detroit Auto Show: 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC

• Competes with: Infiniti G35, Lexus GS, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series
• Looks like: A sportier Passat
• Drivetrain: 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with six-speed manual or automatic, or 295-hp, 3.6-liter six-cylinder with six-speed automatic
• Hits dealerships: Fall/winter 2008

Volkswagen tried to compete with luxury automakers when it debuted the ill-received Phaeton a few years ago. This year, the company is at it again with the Passat CC. Volkswagen is calling the four-door a coupe, and it has a sloping roofline much like that of the Mercedes CLS. The CC is about 1.5 inches longer than a regular Passat and just slightly wider.

We’re not sure where VW is going with the Passat CC. The company says the driving dynamics will offer a more sporting ride, but there isn’t much talk in the voluminous press kit about much that’s been done to the car to make it perform better than a standard Passat. Engine choices are the same as the regular sedan, with the six-cylinder gaining roughly 15 hp. The minimally wider stance won’t help handling that dramatically, nor will the more aerodynamic shape.

There are a lot more technological gadgets added to the CC, though, including an adjustable suspension system called Dynamic Drive Control, which will probably be an option in the U.S. We usually find systems like this neither dynamic nor interesting in real-world driving.

A Lane Assist program sounds similar to Infiniti’s setup, correcting the Passat CC if it strays into a lane it shouldn’t. All-wheel drive will also be available.

Update: VW says pricing will start in the mid-$20,000 range up to around $40,000.

Volkswagen Recalls 2006 - 2007 Passats

VW is recalling approximately 62,000 2006 and 2007 model year Passat sedans and wagons because of two different faults.

2006 Passats may have a faulty wiper blade that can fail in excessive rain, exactly when it would be most needed.

2006 and 2007 Passats equipped with the 2.0-liter turbo engine may have faulty brake lines that can fracture and disconnect in cold temperatures. In affected vehicles, this would result in a driver having to push harder on the brakes, while the car would also need a larger braking area before it comes to a stop.

Letters will be sent to owners in January with instructions to contact a local dealer for inspection and repairs. 

Source: Volkswagen