Stereo systems from automakers have gotten so good that it’s often difficult to justify replacing or upgrading the audio components with aftermarket gear, which used to be de rigueur for discerning music lovers. But even as factory audio systems have improved, the weakest link — and the most frequent aftermarket upgrade — remains the need for better bass and a separate subwoofer.
Automakers and their technology partners have responded to this shortcoming with dedicated and often larger subwoofers that can pound out low frequencies. Examples include the 10-inch Rockford Fosgate subwoofer in the Mitsubishi Outlander and the 8-inch sub in the Beats Audio system in Chrysler, Dodge and FIAT vehicles.
A 2014 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line I recently tested had the Fender audio system with a slightly smaller subwoofer in the hatch. It’s an example of how you can get decent bass from a stock stereo system without losing lots of storage space.
Back in the day, if you wanted good bass, you usually had to give up a substantial amount of space in your trunk. Today, aftermarket solutions such as JL Audio’s Stealthbox line are available to allow owners of specific vehicles to add a subwoofer system that fits into the trunk or interior without taking up too much space. But they’re usually expensive and also require a separate amplifier to power the subwoofer.
The VW Beetle’s Bassman 7.8-inch subwoofer, housed in an enclosure in the hatch, takes up only a small amount of room on the passenger side of the car. And in the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line, the Fender audio system is standard equipment.
As I’ve written about before, the Fender audio system is one of the best available from any automaker, given its low cost and complexity. And even though the sub is small, it cranked out good, rich low bass without sacrificing space.
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