Volkswagen CC vs BMW 3 Series GT vs Audi A5 Sportback: which one is the best value for money?

The first iteration of the Volkswagen CC landed locally during 2009 and instantly made an impression in the segment with its flowing lines and smooth presentation. The model is based on the Volkswagen Passat and like the latter model offers owners high levels of luxury, safety and tech to go along with the unique design.

However, the Volkswagen CC was not without competition and had to step up the trim levels over the years as models such as the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo and Audi A5 Sportback were introduced. The last of the Volkswagen CC derivatives were introduced in 2012 while in 2013 the German automaker made an R-line package available for customers. For this comparison, we will be using the Volkswagen CC in 2.0 TSI Highline DSG guise against the BMW 320i Gran Turismo Modern Line Steptronic and Audi A5 Sportback 2.0T S Tronic.

Practicality

The BMW is the longest out of the three measuring 4 824mm while the Volkswagen is not far behind at 4 802mm with the Audi being the shortest at 4 710mm.  As one would expect being the shortest, the Audi offer the least amount of boot space rated at 480-litres, however, Volkswagen provides the most as it is rated 532-litres while the BMW manages 520-litres.

All three, however, will make for a very capable and practical family sedan and offers a very spacious and comfortable interior for all the occupants. 

Performance

In terms of performance, all three models also compete closely as the engine fitted to these specific derivatives are very similar in size. Let us compare them side by side.

	2013 Volkswagen CC 2.0 TSI Highline DSG	2013 BMW 320i Gran Turismo Modern Line Steptronic	2012 Audi A5 Sportback 2.0T S Tronic
Engine	2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol	2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol	2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol
Transmission	6-speed, dual-clutch automatic	8-speed automatic	7-speed automatic
Power	155 kW	135 kW	155 kW
Torque	280 Nm	270 Nm	350 Nm
0-100 km/h	7.6s	7.9s	7.2s
Top speed	240 km/h	229 km/h	234 km/h
Fuel consumption	7.8 L/100km	6.2 L/100km	6.2 L/100km

*This table was compiled with information sourced from www.diskdrive.co.za as well as the official press releases of each individual model.

Specification

While all three models come fitted as standard with a leather interior, the BMW is the only one to not feature a climate control system in this guise, however, retains air conditioning. The Volkswagen is also the only one in this matchup to offer one-touch electric windows all-round while the Audi only offers this functionality for the front windows.

All three models come with multifunction steering wheels which allows the driver to control the audio functions on the standard infotainment systems. All three infotainment configurations offer Radio, CD and USB input as well as Bluetooth connectivity. Cruise control also feature across the range of competitors, however, only the BMW and Volkswagen offer electric mirrors as well as rain sensors for the automatic wipers. 

While all three contenders offer automatic headlamps, only the Volkswagen comes with a Bi-Xenon headlamp configuration. The Volkswagen is also the only one to offer foglamps upfront as standard in this guise. All three, however, provides for a remotely controlled boot lid and keyless entry for added convenience. 

Safety

Once again on the safety front, all three are very closely specified as they all come with ABS brakes as well as traction control and stability control systems. While the BMW comes fitted with a brake assist system, both the Audi and Volkswagen offer electronic brakeforce distribution as standard specification. The Volkswagen CC, however, is the only one in the line-up to offer Engine Drag Torque Control and with the Audi is the only ones to come installed with an Anti-Slip Regulation system.

While the Audi and the Volkswagen come fitted with six airbags to keep the occupants safe, the BMW offers eight units as standard specification. Families will be happy to know that all three rivals come with ISOFIX mounting points at the rear.

Warranty and maintenance

While for all three, any warranty or maintenance plans would have expired at this stage, customers will be happy to know that all three models were originally sold with a 5-year / 100 000km maintenance plan which if followed by the previous owner would mean for a well-maintained vehicle.

The Volkswagen was originally sold with a 3-year / 120 000 km warranty while the parameters for the BMW was 2-years / unlimited-distance and for the Audi, 1-year / unlimited distance. 

Verdict

At the time the Audi was the most expensive as at the time in this specification the model would set you back around R498 500, the BMW was not far behind as at the time it would cost you around R454 465. The Volkswagen was the most affordable as in this specification it would have only cost you R385 450. This pricing ratio is similar today if you are considering a used model on AutoTrader. 

Because of its high specification, space and respectable performance figures, the Volkswagen CC certainly has to offer the best value for money, back in the day and currently in the used market. The BMW comes a close second whereas the Audi takes third place.