Charles’ VW CC - Daily Driven, Detail Focused

May 14, 2025

Meet Charles - born in Bournemouth, based in Surrey, and someone who’s been immersed in the world of cars from a young age. His roots go back to weekends spent wrenching on family classics, and some seriously influential mentors who shaped his journey into mechanical engineering. One of them even taught him at both school and college, a bond that turned into a legacy after his passing mid-term. The other? Still a close friend, still building, and still wrenching on a classic V8 Pilot together.

"I live for working on cars and seeing everyone's different styles. From wild to sleek to the kind that make you question how they’re even road legal"

Charles’ current car isn’t some extreme, track-built machine - it’s something more relatable: a refined and well-loved VW CC 2.0 GT TDI, doing daily duty with purpose and pride.

This car came into Charles’ life after his Jaguar XF went bang. A story that’s had a weird twist of fame since, eventually ending up on Auto Alex’s channel. That chapter ended, and the CC took centre stage.

This isn’t just a standard repmobile. It’s got subtle upgrades, standout factory spec, and a focus on comfort that most 12-plate cars would envy:

Ramair performance intake - helping the engine breathe a little easier
Stock electronically adjustable suspension - it's just as happy cruising on motorways as it is on a B road
19” Continental Contact 6 tyres all round - solid grip all round
6-speed DSG box - quick shifts and smooth responses
Full leather interior with heated/vented seats - luxury touches that haven't aged a day

It’s the sort of car that flies under the radar; clean, well-rounded, and built for real-world driving. On twisty backroads, it holds its own surprisingly well for a larger saloon. Charles calls it “a heavy family car that can be thrown around when it wants to.”

“The only thing that makes it one of a kind is there’s a young age muppet driving it.”

Love that.

Charles isn’t stopping at subtle. The plan is to develop this into a stealthy sleeper with a mix of performance upgrades and OEM+ finesse. On the list:

Front-mount intercooler
Full Powerflow exhaust system
BBS FI-R wheels
Brembo 4-pot brake upgrade
...and a few surprises still being figured out.

This isn’t a car built for trophies or trends, it’s built for the love of the drive, and the joy of making something your own, one mod at a time.

Charles is a regular with the LowKeyStreets crew and often found at Torque Cafe meets when time allows. You can follow the journey over on Instagram at @C21_BHP. Also, huge shoutout to his other half’s brother @e16.arn, who’s been capturing the build behind the lens - support the creatives behind the scenes!

Passion and love for the drive is often a hobby where the support of our loved ones means the world. It's no different to Charles, who wants to give a special shoutout to his partner whose been there for support both with and without cars; someone who even encouraged him to start a car account in the first place. Another big shoutout to @e18_mev.

Not every build has to break the internet — sometimes it’s about doing something personal, practical, and proudly yours. Charles’ VW CC is exactly that. 👌

And if you've made it this far, why not take a look at the products we offer, from a range of stickers, air fresheners, clothing and other accessories - we've got you covered. Check out our range and rep TLNTD here 🤙