(continued from above)
Volkswagen is presenting a technically and visually updated version of the
vehicle at the LA Auto Show, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center between
November 18 and 27. With new front and rear styling and an extended range of
standard equipment that includes Bi-Xenon headlights and LED taillights, the new
CC makes an even bolder move towards the automotive luxury class. The 2013
Volkswagen CC will go on sale in the spring of 2012 in the U.S.
Exterior Design
The design team, led by Klaus Bischoff, head of design for the Volkswagen brand,
reworked the CC's front and rear body sections. As a result of the changes, the
Volkswagen CC looks even more elegant while also appearing more muscular. New
aluminum-alloy wheels and exterior colors complement other exterior
modifications.
At the front of the car, one's eye is drawn to the new radiator grille, Bi-Xenon
headlights, and the hood design. Optional LED Daytime Running Lights are
integrated in the headlight design. The entire area comprised of the new front
bumper, headlights, and radiator grille exhibits clean lines that correspond
more closely to Volkswagen's "design DNA" styling than previously. This DNA is
marked by such characteristics as an emphasis on horizontal lines and precise
harmony between the headlights and radiator grille. The latter is no longer
designed as a separate "V" framed by body-color pieces, but is instead formed as
a visually continuous band together with the headlights. Like the Passat, the
new CC also has an extra air intake beneath the bumper. The foglights are housed
inside "winglets" that are integrated in this intake.
Despite its unique shape, the front end makes it clear that the "Comfort Coupe"
belongs to a global brand family. The radiator grille has three chrome bars that
bear a styling resemblance to both the Passat and the Phaeton. Like the previous
model, the CC is produced at Volkswagen's plant in Emden, Germany; this
state-of-the-art factory has direct access to an overseas port from which the CC
can be shipped to all regions of the world within a few days.
Although the frameless doors of the CC are unmodified, the side profile shows a
new look, too. Several factors are at work here: up front, the more powerful
hood design interplays with the new bumper to sharpen the car's silhouette.
Meanwhile, the more sculpted side sills between the wheel housings stand out,
making a greater visual connection between the front and rear bumpers.
At the rear, the bumper was given greater volume, enhancing the swoopy nature of
the coupe-like C-pillars and the very long, swept-back rear window. The entire
rear section now shows more geometric surfaces and a greater emphasis on
horizontal lines. The new taillights fit this new design theme, finishing with a
horizontal sweep at their lower ends. In contrast to the previous model, the new
rear lights have LED elements that respond quickly, use less energy, and are
longer lived. The distinctive look of these lights makes the CC unmistakable
from the rear, day or night. The license plate is illuminated with LED lighting
too. Also planned are two new colors for 2013: Black Oak Brown and Fortuna Red.
Volkswagen Passat CC V6: Review (2/2)
