Volkswagen UK to fit DAB radio as standard on all 2013 models
Volkswagen will make DAB digital radio standard across its entire UK passenger car line-up for the 2013 model year, from Polo to Phaeton, starting this summer.
Volkswagen has confirmed that every new 2013 model year passenger car sold in the UK, from the entry-level Polo to the flagship Phaeton, will be equipped with DAB digital radio as standard. The change takes effect with vehicles arriving from summer 2012, ahead of a likely national digital radio switchover later in the decade.
The move puts Volkswagen ahead of many rivals in offering digital radio across its full passenger car range, not just on higher trims or larger models. As of the 2013 model year, every UK Volkswagen will feature a DAB-compatible RCD 310 audio system or above, with at least six speakers fitted as standard on even the base Polo S. Higher-spec models receive eight speakers or more. All cars also retain an auxiliary input for MP3 players and other devices.
Why Volkswagen is making DAB standard
The UK government has indicated its intention to shift national radio broadcasting from FM and AM to digital formats in the coming years, though a firm switchover date has not been set. Volkswagen’s decision anticipates this change and reflects growing demand from UK buyers for digital radio features, which offer more stations and clearer reception compared to analogue. DAB also provides access to a broader range of content, including news, sport, music and specialist programming.
Implications for buyers and dealers
For buyers, the inclusion of DAB as standard removes the need to select it as an option or upgrade to a higher trim. This is likely to appeal to private customers and fleet operators looking for futureproofed in-car entertainment. Dealers can now market every new Volkswagen as digital radio-ready, which may help with showroom comparisons as more brands begin to follow suit.
Which models are covered?
- Volkswagen Polo (including Polo S)
- Volkswagen Golf (all variants, including upcoming Mk7)
- Volkswagen Passat
- Volkswagen Touran, Sharan and Tiguan
- Volkswagen Touareg
- Volkswagen Scirocco and Eos
- Volkswagen CC and Phaeton
