Volkswagen Introduces Car-Net

After having seen GM offer OnStar for years and Hyundai present Blue Link, Volkswagen is jumping into the car telematics system with Car-Net.

Car-Net is free for the first 6 months of ownership, and then costs $17.99 per month. You can opt for a $199 one-year contract, a $378 two-year contract, or a $540 three-year plan to save some money on Car-Net.

Features that come with Car-Net are similar to other automakers' systems. There is Automatic Crash Notification, where the vehicle automatically calls a Car-Net representative if the airbags are deployed and/or a rollover is detected. The vehicle's location and information are sent to the Car-Net Response Center, and emergency services can then be sent to the vehicle.

Roadside Assistance has the vehicle's location and VIN number sent to Car-Net. You can accomplish this by either pressing the appropriate button or using the iPhone app (an Android app will be released soon). Additionally, Car-Net has a website that serves a similar purpose.

Agent Destination Assist just downloads navigation directions after connecting to Car-Net. Your car must be equipped with the navigation system for this feature to work.

Stolen Vehicle Assistance allows the vehicle to be tracked after it has been stolen. Unlike some other similar systems, Car-Net can not slow or disable the stolen car.

Last Parked Location can display your vehicle's location on your phone app if you have forgotten where you last parked.

With your smartphone app, you can also view the car's odometer, fuel meter, and estimated miles-to-empty. You can also see whether any of the doors are open, if the trunk or hood is open, whether the convertible top is up or stowed, or if the moonroof is open. The doors can be unlocked by your phone as well.

If the car surpasses a set speed or a set area, Car-Net will send a text message alerting you of it.

The 2014 model year Volkswagen Beetle, Eos, and CC will be sold with Car-Net standard. The 2014 model year of the Passat, Jetta, and Tiguan will be equipped with Car-Net on all trim levels except the base trim. Volkswagen vehicles not mentioned will not get Car-Net for now.

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