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Archive for the ‘Factory fitted integration’ Category

Not all iPod integrations are equal.  Here's an example of a very simple interface installed in a Toyota Prius. Although the Prius does come with a factory fitted AUX input, this 2008 model doesn't come with factory-fitted  iPod integration.  The owner of the car had therefore selected the € 300,-   iPod integration option when ordering the car but wasn't told exactly what she would be getting. Read the rest of this entry »

I wasn't very impressed with the iPod integration of the previous Lexus RX model. The audio system even still had a...cassette deck. Of course you could use a cassette adapter to play your iPod but come on. A cassette adapter in a Lexus isn't exactly the epitome of class. But in this new model they seem to have done it right. Read the rest of this entry »

I had a chance to play with the iPod interface with the latest iDrive in a 2009 BMW 1-series.  One of the differences with the previous iDrive is that there are a number of quick access butttons next to the central iDrive wheel.

I especially focused on the quick search function. If you have a full iPod with a 60GB or more storage capacity it can be quite frustrating to have to scroll through a long list if you want to go from your ABBA artist to your favourite ZZ  Top Album. Read the rest of this entry »

An increasing number of car manufacturers are offering iPod connectivity in their models. With the popularity of Apple's iPod, car buyers increasingly expect to be able to plug in their favorite MP3 player when they're on the road. But beware. Manufacturers have chosen different approaches to claim iPod connectivity. Here's an overview of the different offerings and what to look out for. Read the rest of this entry »

One thing I definitely like about the new iPod integration in the XC60 is the fact that the iPod display screen is seperate from the GPS navigation display. That way you can search and select music on your iPod without losing sight of your navigation indications. Many other systems use one screen to display all information including the audio/iPod interface but Volvo has chosen a different approach here. Read the rest of this entry »

Jaguar has high hopes for making the replacement of the S-type a huge success. In branding and marketing the new XF Jaguar has largely emphasized the high-tech features of their latest model to attract new customers. There are many cool tech gadgets like the pop-up "drive selector" or the special opening system for the glove compartment and I was therefore very curious to see what they had thought of in terms of iPod integration. Read the rest of this entry »

I'd prefer to own an Aston Martin of course but I was already quite happy to get the chance to check out what kind of iPod integration Aston Martin provides for their rich clients.

The iPod integration is relatively simple but it works quite well. A USB connection is present in the central console between the passenger seat in which you can plug in a standard iPod USB connector to hook up to the system. Read the rest of this entry »