2013 Volkswagen CC

Volkswagen used the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show to launch a face-lifted version of its premium-midsize CC sedan.

CC arrived for the 2009 model year. It was similar in concept to the more costly Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class in that it offered 4 doors, 4-passenger seating, and a sloping coupe-like roof line. For 2013, the CC’s front and rear fascias get an update to bring the look more in line with VW’s other updated vehicles, including the Jetta, Passat, and Tiguan. The other major change is that this car will now offer 5-passenger seating.

Two engines and six trim levels are available on the 2013 CC. The 2.0T Sport, 2.0T Sport Plus, 2.0T R-Line, and 2.0T Lux are front-wheel drive and powered by VW’s ubiquitous 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The Sport and R-Line have a standard 6-speed manual transmission. Optional on those models and standard otherwise is a 6-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission that behaves much like an automatic.

At the top of the 2013 CC roster are the V6 Lux and VR6 4Motion Executive, each powered by a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. The former model is front-wheel drive while the latter is all-wheel drive.

Heated front seats, a cooled glovebox, and xenon headlights are standard. Four-cylinder models have “leatherette” vinyl upholstery while V6 versions get genuine leather. A navigation system is standard on all but the 2.0T Sport and R-Line. V6 models have a rearview camera. The 4Motion Executive has front- and rear-obstacle detection, driver-seat massage, and a power rear sunshade