Does your car’s dashboard feel stuck in the past? Maybe your factory stereo just plays the radio and that’s about it. In today’s world, we expect more from our cars – we want navigation, seamless phone connection, and music that sounds amazing.
Upgrading to an aftermarket infotainment system promises all these cool features. But here’s the tricky part: the choices are overwhelming! Should you pick a big screen or a small one? Does it support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? Choosing the wrong one means wasted money and a headache trying to install it later.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to look for in terms of features, size, and compatibility. By the end of this post, you will feel confident knowing which system perfectly fits your car and your lifestyle.
Let’s dive in and transform your driving experience from basic to brilliant!
Top Aftermarket Car Infotainment System Recommendations
- 【Applicable Car Models】Exclusively designed for Audi Q5 2009-2017 with original Audi multimedia radio system, Left-hand drive. Before purchasing, please identify that your car is an “Audi multimedia” CD amplifier system. If you Original Audi Concert or Audi symphony, this unit does NOT fit, please search and buy ASIN: B0FN7S81NZ on Amazon.
- 【HD Touch Screen and AHD Backup Camera】10.25 Inch & 1920*720 HD QLED display Touch Screen can bring you an excellent visual experience. Upgrade the original display to be big one, perfectly compatible with the original car. This Linux screen supports AHD 720P backup camera which is more clear than CVBS camera.
- 【Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto】Built-in Wireless Car Play and Wired Android Auto. With both wireless and wired connections, you could more easily access the apps of your iPhone and Android phones. Connect your smartphone to this head unit wirelessly through Bluetooth, you can easily use GPS navigation,make calls,send/receive message, listen to music and much more functions via CarPlay or Android Auto while you focus on driving.
- 【Original Functions Retained】Operate with dual systems, retain the functions of the original car CD system, and at the same time increase the functions of the Linux system, which greatly improves your experience; Retain and compatible original radio features such as iDrive Knob control, Bluetooth , Radio, OEM rear camera , Radar, steering wheel control.
- 【Bluetooth Function】Bluetooth increases the transmission rate and the effective working distance. Support audio streaming, automatic Phone Book transfer and hands free call. When you use carplay function, please be sure that no device connecting to the Audi original Bluetooth.
- 【Wireless Carplay & Android Auto】Portable car stereo receiver supports Wireless Carplay & Android Auto. You can access your phone's music, map navigation, messages, hands-free Phone Call etc. when it simply connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. It also supports voice control via Siri or Google assistant, providing you with a safer and more convenient driving experience.
- 【7'' HD Car Touch Screen & Mirror Link Function】The Portable Bluetooth car radio supports smartphone mirror link function for both Android & IOS with 7'' HD 1024*600P car touch screen,its perfect for syncing media player, navigation. Our upgraded full HD touch screen car stereo has higher sensitivity, richer colors and clearer display, which brings you the ultimate visual and audio experience.
- 【Easy Installation & Portability】: This car play radio comes with a adhesive mount for easy installation; you can mount it to your dashboard with 90° adjustable. You can keep the car's original radio, and they can be coexist perfectly.Suitable for almost all kinds of cars, BMW, Audi, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Lexus, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Buick, Jeep, Hyundai, etc
- 【Car Play Screen with Back up Camera】Touch screen car stereo comes with a waterproof adjustable 180° vertical angle backup camera, support night vision; Simply shift into reverse and the system powers on the camera automatically. Car play screen can as a GPS navigator for car, provide precise real-time GPS navigation without delay. The voice-guided navigation through your car's car audio speakers ensures safe driving and provides route suggestions for traffic jams and lane changes.
- 【Warranty Policy】Our product comes with a 1-year warranty policy. If you have any questions about the use of the product, you can contact us directly,We will be at your service
- 12.3 Inch Ultra-Narrow CarPlay Touchscreen for Audi : Road Top brings a new technology to upgrade your car's original screen. It replaces factory car screen with a 12.3 inch car radio screen, that not only retains factory features, but also adds wireless Carplay, wireless Android Auto, mirrorlink and more Functions
- Powerful configuration: 12.3 inch Ultra-Narrow car screen with Linux System, 1920 X 720 HD resolution for a better visual experience. It is extremely user friendly & responsive and keeps all your favorite options within fingers reach. The car stereo sound works via aux or bluetooth channel
- Suitable vehicle: Our Carplay Touchscreen fit for Audi A3/S3 2014-2019 year with MIB（MIB1&MIB2) system. Before you purchase, please check our website picture to make sure firstly. Don't buy on impulse
- Wireless Carplay and Wireless Android Auto with Voice Control: This car stereo is compatible with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, just connect with your smartphone via wireless or wired connetion method, then you can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and enjoy your favorite music. All on our touchscreen display. Free your hands for safer driving operations
- The upgraded touch screen retains all original functions：It keeps original car radio, amplifier function, original reversing camera, and more our car screen system interface supports hand touch control. Switch between the factory in-vehicle MMI system and our system at the touch of a button
- Apple CarPlay - Access icons on your iPhone by activating Siri voice controls the touchscreen. Available features include Phone, Music, Maps, Text messages, Radio, Podcasts, Audiobooks
- Bluetooth - Make calls hands-free with the help of Siri. Play music apps like Spotify or Pandora as well as iTunes and Apple Music Subscription. Siri will be your DJ
- Android Auto - Just say “Ok Google” and Google Assistant will help throughout your day. Get real-time alerts on Google Maps and Waze. Make calls, check your messages, reply, use music apps, all while keeping your hands on the steering wheel
- Inputs - USB, USB charging, AV, front & rear camera. The steering wheel interface. Module sold separately (Metra ASWC-1). External Microphone. Outputs - Front, rear & subwoofer pre-amp
- BOSS Audio Systems provides a powerful 3-year platinum online dealer warranty so long as the purchase is made through Amazon.com. We strongly encourage professional installation of this product to ensure proper and safe functionality
- 【Pre-shopping Notes】This touchscreen is compatible with Audi Q5 (2009-2017) with the MMI 2G system only. Not compatible with other systems. Please confirm your car has the MMI 2G system before purchase. Fits Audi Concert or Audi Symphony only, not for Audi Multimedia（This is indicated in the text on the central control unit.) Runs on a Linux system, ensuring stable, freeze-free performance over extended use.
- 【Built-in Carplay & Android Auto】Built-in wired and wireless Carplay & Android Auto support Siri or touch display interaction. You can access GPS, make calls, send and receive messages, and enjoy music, among other functions. It's a smarter, safer, and more enjoyable way to use your phone in the car.
- 【Supports Original Functions】The upgraded touch screen retains all original functions, including the original car radio, amplifier function, factory joystick control, original reversing camera, and more. No software changes are made to the vehicle's control units. It supports the use of original or aftermarket rearview cameras and is compatible with DVR systems.
- 【Upgrqaded Screen Resolution】This touchscreen features a 1920* 720 HD resolution, offering sharp, vibrant visuals for a better viewing experience. Connect your device via USB to enjoy music or videos, perfect for long drives. The high-resolution screen delivers clear, colorful movies and supports mirror link, so you can easily mirror your smartphone for access to apps, navigation, and media.
- 【Easy installation】The original car cable allows for plug-and-play installation, eliminating the need for cutting or breaking cables, ensuring a non-destructive process. The package includes an 8.9" touchscreen and all necessary cables. If you encounter any installation issues, please reach out to us for assistance.
- Apple CarPlay - Access icons on your iPhone by activating Siri voice controls the touchscreen. Available features include Phone, Music, Maps, Text messages, Radio, Podcasts, Audiobooks
- Messages - With Siri on your side, you can ask her to read you your messages, reply as well as send them. Siri lets you concentrate on what matters most. Driving
- Maps - Need gas? Hungry? Search along your route by asking Siri, and CarPlay will direct you every step of the way and tell you the speed limit too. Third-party navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze and Baidu are also available
- Bluetooth - Make calls hands-free with the help of Siri. Play music apps like Spotify or Pandora as well as iTunes and Apple Music Subscription. Siri will be your DJ
- Android Auto - Just say “Ok Google” and Google Assistant will help throughout your day. Get real-time alerts on Google Maps and Waze. Make calls, check your messages, reply back, use music apps, all while keeping your hands on the steering wheel
- Apple CarPlay - Access icons on your iPhone by activating Siri voice controls, or via the capacitive touchscreen. Available features include Phone, Music, Maps, Text messages, Radio, Podcasts, & Audiobooks
- Messages - You can ask Siri to read your messages, reply as well as send them. Siri lets you concentrate on what matters most. Driving
- Maps - Need gas? Hungry? Search along your route by asking Siri, and CarPlay will direct you every step of the way and tell you the speed limit too. Third-party navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze and Baidu are also available
- APPS - Rearrange how you want your apps to appear in CarPlay through the settings on your iPhone. Supported apps include WhatsApp, Radio Disney, Amazon, iHeartRadio, Podcasts, Google Play Music, CBS Radio and more
- Android Auto - Just say “Ok Google” to talk to the Google assistant for help. Get real-time alerts on Google Maps and Waze. Make calls, check your messages, reply, use music apps
- Apple CarPlay - Access icons on your iPhone by activating Siri voice controls the touchscreen. Available features include Phone, Music, Maps, Text messages, Radio, Podcasts, Audiobooks
- Messages - With Siri on your side, you can ask her to read you your messages, reply as well as send them. Siri lets you concentrate on what matters most. Driving
- Maps - Need gas? Hungry? Search along your route by asking Siri, and CarPlay will direct you every step of the way and tell you the speed limit too. Third-party navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze and Baidu are also available
- Rearview Camera - High Resolution Color, Low Light Visibility, Weatherproof, Wide Angle View, NTSC Output, Hidden Mounting Bracket
- Multi Color Illumination - Colorize your ride with all of the shades in a rainbow. Select from a variety of different colors to change on your head unit’s panel
Choosing Your Perfect Upgrade: Aftermarket Infotainment System Buying Guide
Your car’s old stereo might be boring. A new aftermarket infotainment system brings your ride into the modern age! These systems offer big touchscreens, navigation, and better sound. But how do you pick the right one? Follow this guide to find your perfect match.
Key Features to Look For
Modern infotainment systems do much more than play music. Think about what you need most. These are the major features to check:
- Screen Size and Quality: Bigger is often better, but make sure it fits your dashboard space. Look for high resolution (like 1080p) and good brightness for sunny days.
- Smartphone Integration: This is crucial. You need Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features let you safely use your phone apps (like maps and music) right on the screen.
- Navigation: Does it have built-in GPS, or does it rely only on your phone (via CarPlay/Android Auto)? Built-in maps are great if you lose signal often.
- Connectivity: Check for USB ports, Bluetooth (for hands-free calling), and Wi-Fi capability.
- Camera Support: A backup camera connection is a huge safety boost. Make sure the system supports your existing or a new aftermarket camera.
Sound Quality and Power
The head unit is the brain of your car’s sound system. A good unit has high voltage pre-outs (RCA outputs) if you plan to add external amplifiers. Look at the RMS wattage—this tells you how cleanly the system can power your speakers.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The quality of the materials affects how long the system lasts and how good it feels to use.
Screen Durability
Most modern screens use **capacitive touch** technology, similar to your smartphone. This feels smooth and responsive. Cheaper systems might use **resistive touch**, which feels mushy and requires harder presses. Look for durable glass or high-grade plastic covers.
Internal Components
Better internal processors mean faster loading times. A system that uses slow processors will feel frustrating. Good brands use reliable internal memory and robust wiring harnesses. Always check that the included wiring harness is specifically designed for your car model; this prevents electrical issues.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one system better than another? It comes down to speed and software.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Fast Operating System (OS): A snappy OS makes switching between apps easy. Systems running on Android or specialized, fast proprietary software usually perform best.
- Heat Dissipation: Good units have vents or heat sinks to stay cool. Overheating reduces performance and lifespan.
- Sound Equalizer (EQ): Advanced EQs (like 13-band or more) let you fine-tune the audio exactly how you like it.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Laggy Interface: If the screen takes several seconds to wake up or switch apps, the user experience suffers greatly.
- Poor Radio Reception: Cheap internal tuners often pick up fewer stations clearly.
- Bad Mounting Fit: If the dash kit doesn’t match perfectly, the whole unit looks cheap, even if the technology inside is good.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you actually use this system every day? Consider these common scenarios:
The Daily Commuter
You need reliable phone integration. You will spend most of your time using Waze or Google Maps and streaming Spotify. Fast boot-up time is essential here.
The Road Tripper
You need strong offline navigation capabilities and excellent Bluetooth connectivity for long calls. Look for systems that support multiple USB drives loaded with music.
The Audiophile
You care about sound output. You need pre-amp outputs for external amps and a powerful built-in EQ. You might also look for support for high-resolution audio files.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Aftermarket Infotainment Systems
Q: Will an aftermarket system fit my car?
A: Most systems are standard “Double-DIN” size. However, you need a specific “dash kit” or “fascia plate” made for your vehicle’s make and model to ensure it mounts perfectly.
Q: Is installation difficult?
A: Basic installation is plug-and-play if you buy the correct wiring harness adapter. Complex installations (like integrating factory amplifiers or steering wheel controls) might need professional help.
Q: Do I lose my factory features, like the car’s settings menu?
A: Sometimes. If your factory stereo handled crucial vehicle settings (like tire pressure monitoring), you must buy an interface module (like a CAN-Bus decoder) to keep those functions working through the new screen.
Q: What is the difference between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
A: They are the same concept, just for different phones. CarPlay is for iPhones; Android Auto is for Android phones. They let your phone control navigation, music, and calls safely.
Q: Can I add a subwoofer to these systems?
A: Yes. Almost all good aftermarket units have dedicated RCA outputs specifically for connecting an external amplifier that powers a subwoofer.
Q: How do I know if the touchscreen will be bright enough outside?
A: Look for high “Nits” rating in the specifications. Higher Nits mean better visibility under direct sunlight. Also, look for an anti-glare coating.
Q: Do I need Wi-Fi?
A: Wi-Fi is helpful if you want to download maps directly to the unit or use certain apps without tethering your phone constantly.
Q: How does the microphone quality affect hands-free calling?
A: A poor microphone makes you sound muffled. Better systems include an external microphone that you can mount near your visor for clearer voice pickup.
Q: Are these systems safe from theft?
A: Many modern units have a “theft deterrence” feature. Some screens detach, or the system requires a security code to operate after being disconnected.
Q: How often do I need to update the software?
A: If you rely mostly on CarPlay or Android Auto, updates are rare. If the system uses its own built-in navigation or OS features, you might need annual updates for maps or bug fixes.