Volkswagen UK will fit digital (DAB) radios as standard to all 2013 models.
Digital radio, officially Digital Audio Broadcasting or DAB (the European technology is different from HD radio in the US), has been available in the UK for a number of years but automakers have been slow to offer it as standard or optional and some consumer groups have criticised the industry for continuing to fit AM and FM radios for which the signal could relatively soon be switched off. However, due to adverse public reaction, government plans to end analogue AM/FM broadcasts by around 2015 have been postponed – the country is, however, close to completing conversion from analogue to digital free-to-air television.
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Digital radio offers better sound and a wider choice of radio stations but just-auto’s experience of the technology in Audi and Jaguar models suggests station range is limited and there are many ‘dead’ areas.
The Volkswagen DAB audio systems will retain FM and AM analogue tuners and play audio CDs including MP3 files while all car models already have an aux-in socket to allow the connection of external audio devices such as an iPod or MP3 player.
Almost all 2013 models will also have audio systems upgraded to at least six speakers (the majority have eight) connected to a standard RCD 310 audio unit or better.
Upgrade options include the MDI multi-device interface, which allows easy connection of iPods or USB sticks, which can then be controlled via the car’s audio system; Bluetooth connection of compatible telephones; Bluetooth music playback; audiophile-quality speakers and amplifiers from Danish specialist Dynaudio; higher-power audio systems with colour touchscreen controls and an SD memory card slot; and touchscreen satellite navigation systems, including with built-in HD memory. Beetle models may also be optionally ordered with an audio system developed in conjunction with legendary guitar and amplifier manufacturer, Fender.
