We say A sleek coupe-styled saloon that sticks out in the Passat range because it looks rather smashing. A genuine alternative to more expensive execs.Performance Diesel units offer a great balance of performance and flexibility, but all of the engines are well suited to the big saloon, with the possible exception of the V6 which seems overly powerful with a 0-60mph sprint time of 5.4 seconds, something we can’t ever see you taking advantage of.Emissions Between 146g/km and 219g/km; it’s the hefty V6 that spoils it. Up to 50mpg in diesel units on a combined cycle is good, though the V6 returns a measly 29mpg making it seem even more pointless whilst petrol prices are so high.Driving An overall smooth and comfortable drive; steering is balanced and responsive. There’s a marked difference between the CC and the rest of the Passat range because its drive is genuinely quite sporty, particularly with high-end GT models which have additional driver systems to adjust the suspension set-up.Feel All engines, apart from the V6, are fairly quiet and refined. Road or wind noise aren’t a problem either for what is a sophisticated and sleek saloon.Space Seats four relatively comfortably – tall people may struggle with rear headroom because of the plunging coupe-like roof line but there should be few complaints.. Very spacious upfront and the boot is quite big at 452-litres.Equipment Impressive standard kit including climate control, touch-screen interface and electric sports seats. Base models get 17-inch alloys, GT trim adds 18s.Price If comparing to the premium saloons, which the Passat CC targets, it’s great value for money at around £22,000 to £34,000. Running costs are affordable as long as you bypass the V6 and residuals are good, too.Quality A big improvement on the standard saloon, even if a few cheap materials remain. It seems solid and mechanically, it should stand the test. There are sports seats in the CC that don’t feature anywhere else in the Passat range.Safety Eight airbags and stability control are standard across the range. Lots of safety options too, such as a lane departure warning system.Pros Manageable running costs are appealing to company car drivers, good standard kit, smooth drive and a sleek design should also impress business user choosers.Cons The V6 is unpopular for a reason and you’ll still struggle shedding the boring Passat label. There are better premium rivals on the market as well, although they’re probably not quite as cheap.Alternatives Audi A5, BMW 3 Series Coupe,
