Is the Volkswagen CC a reliable car? - 1

I'm in the market for my first vehicle. I really like the VW CC 2010-2013.

Did anyone have experience with this car? How much was annual maintenance, and did it give any problems?

I was interested in either a Honda or Acura because the maintenance is very cheap for them, and I'm a college student so I want to save money.

The CC i found locally go for $5-7k, and it's fair to me.

Is it reliable?

Can a Honda Element keep up with a Mazda 3 on the highway?

The Honda Element is a 2003 4wd with an automatic and the 2006 Mazda 3i touring sedan is a 5 speed manual. My question is how would a good driver in the Honda Element do against a good driver trying to get away in a Mazda 3? Assuming both cars are in good mechanical condition.