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Volkswagen Introduces Standard-fit ESC Electronic Stability Control and DAB digital radio on all its UK Models


volkswagen up
2014 Volkswagen Up!

June 5, 2014: Volkswagen has taken another step forwards in the democratisation of technology, with the introduction of standard-fit ESC electronic stability control and DAB digital radio on all of its passenger car models in the UK, from the up! to the Phaeton.

ESC (previously fitted to almost every model in the range and optional on others) now comes included as standard in every 2015 model-year Volkswagen. ESC detects critical situations at an early stage, and takes action – by applying the brakes to one or more wheels and reducing engine power if necessary – to stop skidding and help bring the car safely back under control.

As well as enhanced safety, there’s now enhanced entertainment in every Volkswagen, too, thanks to standard-fit DAB digital radio tuners across the range. Volkswagen UK was one of the first manufacturers to make DAB standard on many models, having added it from May 2012 in every 2013 model-year vehicle from Polo to Touareg. It was added to the Phaeton later in 2012, and introduced as an option on the up! in 2013.

DAB digital radio gives customers a greater than ever choice of stations for their listening pleasure, from music to comedy to drama to sport (cricket aficionados in particular will be delighted that they will be able to listen to Test Match Special, while crystal clear BBC Radio 5 Live is a boon for all sports fans). Of course, all Volkswagen audio systems also include FM radio reception too, and the majority of models come with Bluetooth audio connectivity, as well as iPod, USB or aux-in connections.

Volkswagen has one of the largest model ranges in the UK, spanning from the up! city car via the Polo, Golf, Golf Estate, Golf SV, Golf Cabriolet, Jetta, Beetle, Beetle Cabriolet, Scirocco, Eos, Tiguan, Passat, Passat Estate, Passat Alltrack, CC, Touran, Sharan and Touareg to the Phaeton. Engines include a wide range of petrol and diesel units, as well as fully electric vehicles. A plug-in hybrid joins the UK line-up next year.