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The optional rearview camera on the new-for-2009 Volkswagen CC picks up images in the coolest way, with the camera emerging from behind the VW badging on the trunk when the car is put in reverse. Do you know what the camera doesn't show? The beauty of the CC.

The CC stands for "comfort coupe," according to the German automaker, which is somewhat of a misnomer because of the four doors. The design and feel of this four-seat auto suggest a two-door coupe. Unlike the short-on-the-shelf Phaeton, the CC figures to have a wider buyer market. Prices start at less than $27K and that price includes plenty of good standard features. Sharing a platform with the Volkswagen Passat, the CC comes in Sport, Luxury, VR6 Sport and VR6 4Motion trims. The first two trims come with a 200-horsepower, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and the latter two trims come with a 280-horsepower V-6. We drove the VR6 4Motion, which brings all-wheel drive to the otherwise front-wheel drive lineup.

With the standard sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch tires, this car touches the inner driver. The two-toned leather upholstery, which covers supportive seats front and back, livens up an already classy interior. Back-seat passengers might find the headroom a bit lacking because of the sloping roofline, but access is undeniably easier than if this actually was a coupe. The back seat can be folded almost flat to increase cargo storage and there is also a passthrough. Just in case you question the luxury qualities of a car that starts at less than $27,000, the 4Motion has a base price of $39,300. With an added navigation system, 32GB hard drive and rearview camera the price tag will exceed $42,000. With or without the camera, the view is still stunning.

View photos of the 2009 Volkswagen CC VR6 4Motion at DaytonDailyNews.com/WheelsReviews.

David Mikesell is a free-lance automotive reviewer. Read Wheels online at DaytonDailyNews.com/Wheels.