Volkswagen removes features due to semiconductor shortages

A range of Volkswagen models are set to lose blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert from September 2022, due to global semiconductor chip shortages.

The brand has said the Polo Style, T-Cross Style, T-Roc Style, T-Roc R-Line, Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace ranges, Passat range, and Arteon range will lose the tech for around six months.

They’ll also lose Proactive Occupant Protection for the same time period. The system tightens the seatbelts, closes the windows, and shuts the sunroof if it detects an imminent collision.

A powered tailgate will become optional on the Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace – although Volkswagen says 4000 facelifted Allspace models are on the ground in Australia already featuring all the technology being removed for model year 2023.

The Golf hatchback and wagon, Touareg large SUV, and hot R models won’t lose any functionality.

Buyers of cars affected by the changes will be refunded (or have the purchase price cut by) between $550 and $1300. They’ll also be given the option to wait until vehicles start arriving with the missing kit.

“This is not a desirable situation and not for a moment are we glossing it over,” said Volkswagen Australia director of passenger cars, Michael Szaniecki.

“The brand has been full and frank about the semi-conductor shortage since it began to bite. We can say, however, that the high level of advanced safety equipment in our cars and SUVs enables Volkswagen to continue offering five star vehicles.”

Volkswagen is far from alone in needing to cull features from its cars due to global semiconductor shortages. For a complete list of what’s missing, and where it’s missing, check out our comprehensive wrap.

MORE: Everything Volkswagen Arteon, Polo, T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan