The 2013 Volkswagen CC will borrow some familial cues from the hot new VW Passat.
While the new Passat and Beetle models may be getting most of the headlines, few cars have done more to shift Volksawagen’s visual image than the strikingly curvaceous CC.
Three years into the model-run, Volkswagen will be making some modest to significant changes to thecoupe-like sedan, the 2013 CC getting freshened front and rear fascia that will adopt the styling theme of the new Passat.
The maker is hoping to ramp up demand for what is unarguably the most aggressively styled vehicle in its line-up at a time when it is pushing to achieve global dominance – and regain its once tight grip on the import market in the U.S.
The 2013 Volkswagen CC will make its formal bow at this month’s L.A. Auto Show, though the maker is offering a sneak peek at what it has in store.
The 2013 Volkswagen CC will adopt LED taillamps and adaptive bi-xenon headlamps.
The most notable changes include those revised front and rear fascia, with a Passat-derived cross-hatch grille and modified headlamps. Standard equipment will include Bi-Xenon headlights with an Adaptive Front Lighting System and LED taillights,
The taillights also adopt a familial cue in line with the Passat and Jetta, which was itself redesigned in 2011.
The maker isn’t saying much else, though there appear to be few changes to the 2013’s interior. But it would surprise observers if VW doesn’t update the CC’s now-outdated infotainment system and add more safety technologies, in line with what it has done on the Passat. The more conventional sedan notably offers two different navigation systems, including a lower-priced version aimed at buyers who might otherwise opt for an aftermarket system.
While there appear to be few changes to the interior of the 2013 CC expect updated technologies, such as a next-gen infotainment system.
Also on hold for a later date are powertrain details, though our friends at Autoblog.com are suggesting the 2012 Volkswagen CC will likely feature both a 2.0-liter turbo packager and a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V-6. The current 4Motion all-wheel-drive system likely will carry forward.
Considering the growing popularity of the maker’s diesel technology some observers are wondering whether an oil-burner might also be added to the powertrain mix.
The other big question is price; the support its goal of more than doubling U.S. sales, to at least 600,000 annually by 2018, VW has added new entry models to the Passat and Jetta families. The strategy is paying off, sales in the States rising 28% last month alone as the new Passat and third-generation Beetle rolled into showrooms. It remains to be seen if a low-end version of the CC might also be in the works.