The CC made its debut at the Los Angeles motor show in November 2011 and made an immediate impression with family saloon practicality wrapped up in svelte, flowing lines.

Back then, of course, it was positioned as a member of the Passat family but now the CC is its own man – or rather automobile – and despite its shared lineage now occupies a nice that it has pretty much to itself.

In fact, it’s difficult to think of any manufacturers who are producing a direct competitor vying for your attention, and your cash. There’s certainly nothing else in this class that looks like the CC. Its swooping, coupe-like profile remains but the grille, with its strong horizontal lines, and reprofiled bumpers – the rear with a greater emphasis on horizontal lines – give the CC a broad, squat appearance. It’s still unmistakeably a VW.

The CC manages to combine those sleek looks with the practicality of a four-door saloon but despite its coupe-like profile the emphasis is on comfort, refinement and efficiency.

Consequently the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel powering my test car proved most at home on motorway journeys with a tall sixth gear helping to improve fuel economy.

On the move and – if you ever driven a VW before – you’ll be familiar with the superb refinement and relaxed, effortless progress. The cabin is serene, even at motorway speeds, and passengers are beautifully isolated from all the unnecessary business going on outside the car.

It’s no slouch either, with 62mph arriving in a none too shabby 8.1 seconds unless it’s a little greasy under-rubber because then it’s all too easy to spin up the front tyres as they struggle for traction.

It’s an issue that undermines its credentials as a cross-country sprinter as those same front tyres that bite so convincingly as you turn into a bend in the dry, can’t be trusted to do the same when the roads show the slightest hints of moisture.

It means that rather than a quick punt through the country pushing what is a very capable chassis to, or close to, its limits, you’ll be happier dialling things down about so you can enjoy the CC’s compliant, cosseting ride and easy, impeccable manners.

Standard equipment has been improved with even entry level models including Discover Navigation touchscreen satellite navigation system, DAB digital radio, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights and battery regeneration plus Start/Stop and multifunction computer with gear change recommendation for optimum fuel consumption.

GT models swap the 17-inch alloys for 18s, add front fog lights, adaptive suspension and parking sensors. Cruise control, heated front seats and Nappa leather upholstery up the ante on the inside while the R-Line models get adaptive headlines and a liberal smattering of R-Line detailing.

The Black Edition – which available on GT and R-Line models – does exactly what it says on the tin and adds more black trim and interior details, plus a sunroof.

The CC might be a standalone model, but there’s no doubt where its roots lie. It’s the Passat’s better-looking, more intriguing, sexier sibling. That fact alone makes it surprising that it hasn’t sold in bigger numbers.

It certainly deserves greater attention thanks to the way that it manages to combine excellent practicality, refinement and comfort while looking like nothing else in its class. If you dare to be different, you don’t have to look far.

CC R-Line Black Edition 2.0-litre TDI 184 PS 6spd DSG

Price: £33,515

As tested: £38,600

Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel

Transmission: 6-speed DSG

Max power: 184PS @ 3,500 – 4,000rpm

Max torque: 380Nm @ 1,750 – 3,250rpm

Max speed: 144mph

Acceleration (0-62mph): 8.1sec

Urban: 47.9mpg

Extra urban: 62.8mpg

Combined: 56.5mpg

Emissions: 130g/km

For more information visit www.volkswagen.co.uk