Volkswagen CC - road test

It may not be as popular as the more practical Passat Saloon, but the Volkswagen CC represents a sleeker four-door option for company car drivers.

With 82% of the previous Passat CC being sold as company cars (the firm decided to drop the Passat part of the name for the latest version), this model is likely to continue to be a firm favourite among fleet users.

There have been some design changes for the Volkswagen CC, which bring it in line with the German brand’s other models like the Passat Saloon and latest Tiguan. The grille has been redesigned and there are newly designed bi-xenon headlights, while the bonnet is more tapered.

The rear of the car gets a new look too with a redesigned rear bumper and some rather attractive looking rear lights. Of course it’s hard to be excited by rear lights but these are good-looking rear lights.

Inside, the car is much like the updated Passat model. It has a quality feel that gives the car a more premium-looking finish and there are even 11 different seat materials available.

The obvious engine choice for fleet users is the 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI with BlueMotion technology. Combined with the six-speed manual gearbox, emissions of 125g/km means it falls in to the 18% Benefit-in-Kind tax bracket.

In CC trim the P11d value for this car is £25,290. This means anyone in the 20% tax bracket will pay £75.87 per month while 40% taxpayers will be charged £151.74.

Move up to the better-spec GT model with this engine and the P11d price starts at £27,515. The monthly costs come in at £82.54 for anyone in the 20% tax bracket, while the higher 40% ratepayers will face a monthly bill of £165.09.

Don’t be afraid of picking the lower trim. The level of standard equipment is very good with base CC cars getting DAB digital radio, 17-inch alloys, iPod and Bluetooth connection, bi-xenon headlights, touchscreen sat nav and climate control. GT models offer the added conveniences of full leather, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control included.

As we've come to expect from Volkswagen’s engines, this lower-powered diesel belies its 138bhp. The 350Nm of torque means there’s plenty of in-gear acceleration while lower down the range it’s strong too. 

Stats-wise it's a fairly reasonable story: the CC will get from 0-60mph in 9.8 seconds and top out at 133mph. Getting there is a pretty pleasant experience since the six-speed manual gearbox feels assured and precise, but it’s smooth rather than notchy.

On the road things are more competent rather than exciting. The car handles well enough, although the steering could be a little more direct, while there is almost no bodyroll, even in tight corners. There’s not much feedback for the driver, but if your main purpose is cruising long distances then it's a capable car. The ride is compliant though and it deals with potholes or large drains well - a big bonus for UK roads.

Don’t be fooled by the sloping roofline and coupe looks, this is still a practical and flexible car. Ok, so headroom in the back does get a little tight if you’re 5ft 11’ or taller, but a boot space of 452 litres is pretty big, though the actual opening is a little awkward for bigger items. You can even opt for the automatic boot opening. Simply have your keys in your pocket, swipe your foot under the boot and it opens.

So when you're handed the company car list of the same boring old saloons, hatchbacks and estate, but would rather something with better looks that will also please the fleet manager, then the CC could be the ideal choice.

Also consider:

Volvo S60

If safety and comfort is top of your priorities, then the S60 is the perfect choice. The low emitting DRIVe models also mean it is one of the cheapest options available.

Audi A5 Sportback

Like the CC the A5 offers the coupe looks with hatchback practicality. There's a good amount of room on offer for rear passengers, while the usual mix of excellent engines from the German powerhouse. 

Alfa Romeo

This is the smallest of the options here and, while it may lead the way in terms of looks, it doesn't offer the room of the competition. The high emitting engines also mean it may not be the best company car choice.