Saar: Alongside, the German carmaker introduces a new shade of paint – Lapiz Blue – for all three models and enhances Vento’s safety quotient with two additional airbags.

The Indian arm of the German carmaker Volkswagen has launched Connect Editions of Polo, Ameo and Vento models. All three cars are offered with the company’s own telematics solution called Volkswagen Connect. There is a plugged-in dongle inside the car, which connects to the smartphone via Volkswagen’s Connect App. The said app is available for download through Google’s Play Store and Apple’s App Store. Once connected, the telematics solution helps the driver with added functions such as tracking driving behaviour and trip history, calling for assistance in times of emergency, fuel monitor, location sharing and service partner location.

The real kicker is that the carmaker isn’t charging a single paisa for Volkswagen Connect. At least not on paper! Prices for the Polo, Ameo and Vento fall between Rs 5.555 – 9.395 lakh, Rs 5.655 – 9.999 lakh and Rs 8.38 – 14.03 lakh respectively (all prices ex-showroom India). Apart from adding the telematics solution, the Connect Editions feature few cosmetic changes such as black OVRMs, blacked-out roof, 16-inch grey Portago alloy wheels, a boot-mounted spoiler and chrome-draped Connect badge on the fender. Inside, all three models get leatherette seat covers, aluminium pedals and the Connect dongle.

Here’s what Steffen Knapp, who is the director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, had to say about the added feature:

“Volkswagen is transforming into a mobility provider with the aim to offer fully connected vehicle fleets. In India, with Volkswagen Connect and the recently launched ‘Digital Workplace’ experience, we aim to completely digitalize the customer experience right from pre to post-purchase experiences.”

The German carmaker also took the opportunity to introduce a new shade of paint for all three models. Called Lapiz Blue, it is the same colour that was recently introduced with the Skoda Rapid Onyx. Moreover, Volkswagen has upped the safety quotient of the Vento by adding two side airbags in the front, in addition to the dual front airbags. However, the added safety tech is only offered in the sedan’s Highline Plus variant.