Subaru Impreza 2013 Hatchback Headunit Upgrade

Hi everyone, I just purchased a 2013 Subaru Impreza on the weekend.

For anyone wondering, yes it's insured..

I'm looking to upgrade from the stock headunit to one with Apple Carplay.

Does anyone have a recommendation on what to purchase or look for?

Comments

  • +1

    Does it currently look like this?

    • Yes it does

      • +1

        I want to upgrade mine as well which looks the same. I just want to ensure it still integrates with the steering wheel controls and existing microphone though.

        This looks good though pricey - https://automotivesuperstore.com.au/kenwood-dmx8020s

        • +1

          There’s basically two options.
          1. Cheap, Chinese knockoff systems from eBay etc with average OS but heaps of features. May often freeze/hang or not operate as expected. Usually slower/laggy interface.
          2. Brand name. High price, but more robust OS. Not as many features but typically quicker to boot, less glitches. May sound better with higher quality amplifier. Better after sales support.

          • +2

            @Euphemistic: Honestly the Chinese systems are overtaking the name brand systems on features etc. The processors have caught up as well and they perform pretty incredibly.
            The name brand ones really are just the chinese systems now with a 50% markup for retail (or if you want android auto/apple carplay).

        • +1

          That Kenwood has resistive touch?
          I thought that died 10+ years ago?

        • If you want to retain steering controls it's going to cost you - https://frankiesautoelectrics.com.au/aerpro-chsu3c-steering-…

        • I got a Joying HU that was Impreza specific replacing this same model. Cost about $500 on Aliexpress. Was plug and play including steering wheel controls. It came with an additional microphone that could be attached above driver side door inconspicuously.

  • Putting your post title into Google seems to turn up a few results

  • +4

    Honestly the value for money on the Aliexpress offerings atm are phenomenal.
    Picked up an Android unit for ~$175, installed it myself on a sportage and it's been great.
    Bluetooth, maps, steering wheel control mapping etc.

    Just go for the midrange one with at least 2gb of ram, 1gb will cripple the system.
    Previously had one for 6 years and it never skipped a beat, would happily buy another.

    • Any suggestions with apple carplay wireless and dual bluetooth phone support?

  • +1

    A couple of the Kansas-Automotive YouTube channels I watch recommend the heck out of these. No, it's not a mid/high-end name brand head unit, but it's very feature-rich for the price, and supports (native) wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay which is a big deal apparently. If I was looking for one at the moment, I'd be rolling the dice on it.

    Next hurdles would be:
    1. Does it fit in your dash (may need to measure to be sure)
    2. Can you obtain a pre-made wiring harness adapter, or will it have to be custom made
    3. Would you like to retain steering wheel controls. That could be a rabbit hole in itself

    • Bought one of these a few weeks ago, not too laggy imo, screen a bit low res and amp a bit weak. Would probably go for one that runs android instead if i was to buy one again

  • +1

    I had the same stock HU on my Impreza 2011 and replaced it with a Joying Impreza specific HU about 18 months back. Got it from Aliexpress, shipped from China, but received it within a week of ordering! Cost about AUD $550 including a reverse camera.
    I must say I'm impressed by the quality and the difference it has made providing Android experience in my car.
    Since it was model specific, it fits exactly into the HU and air vent slots. installing it was a matter of just plugging in 2 pins, no additional connectors/wiring required. Even the steering wheel controls worked off the bat immediately with no configs required.

    If you require the specific item/seller details, PM me and happy to share.

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