After-market infotainment systems on a budget
Today, we take a look at some budget-friendly infotainment systems that can add a modern touch to your ride
If you visit a dealership today to buy a brand-new car, you are likely to find features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included as standard. In contrast, if you're still driving a reconditioned Japanese domestic model, you might be stuck with just Bluetooth music or an auxiliary cable for audio.
You don't realise how crucial a good infotainment system is until you're on a late-night drive, missing your favourite tunes, or navigating the twists and turns of Hatirjheel, hoping to take the right exit. Fortunately, there are several budget-friendly options available to upgrade your car's old system.
Today, we'll explore some affordable infotainment systems that can add a modern touch to your ride without breaking the bank.
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The Autosonic 9"
The Autosonic 9" infotainment system is a fantastic option for car owners looking to upgrade their multimedia experience without spending a fortune. Featuring a 9-inch touchscreen display, it offers bright visuals that are great for everyday use, even if it doesn't have the highest resolution on the market.
Powered by an Android operating system, this system comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, allowing you to download various streaming apps. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and music, as well as built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, USB ports, and reverse camera support, making it a highly functional head unit.
When it comes to audio quality, the Autosonic 9" performs well, featuring adjustable equaliser settings that let you customise your sound. However, audiophiles might find the built-in amplifier a bit lacking if you're seeking deep bass or richer audio without additional enhancements.
Installing the Autosonic 9" is straightforward for most vehicles, especially those with a 2-DIN slot. While it may not have the polish of higher-end models, its large screen, good app compatibility, and solid sound performance make it a reliable choice in the budget category.
Price: Tk8,000
Where to buy: Hot Shot Automotive
You don't realise how crucial a good infotainment system is until you're on a late-night drive, missing your favourite tunes, or navigating the twists and turns of Hatirjheel, hoping to take the right exit.
The MCX CarPlay 9"
The MCX CarPlay 9" is a budget-friendly option for anyone wanting infotainment features with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Its 9-inch touchscreen makes it easy to interact with apps, stream media, and adjust car settings, thanks to its user-friendly design.
The screen is bright and clear, providing a satisfactory experience for everyday use, even if it does not match the high-definition quality of more expensive models.
The MCX CarPlay 9" stands out with its impressive features, particularly its support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—an uncommon offering at this price point. This functionality allows you to transform your infotainment system into an extension of your phone, giving you easy access to apps like Google Maps, Spotify, and messaging services directly from the screen.
In addition to this, it includes Bluetooth pairing for hands-free calls and music, along with USB support and an option for a reverse camera setup.
When it comes to sound quality, the MCX CarPlay 9" performs well and music lovers will appreciate the wide range of equaliser options available.
Price: Tk10,000
Where to buy: Auto Zone Bangladesh
The Lenovo D1 4G 9″
The D1 4G 9″ is one of the most advanced in-vehicle devices by Lenovo that well balances comfort and ergonomics within a price range suitable for the majority of auto enthusiasts.
The 9-inch touchscreen display is adequately bright but not too responsive to screen gestures unlike the higher-end versions.
One notable feature of this infotainment is its 4G connectivity. Users can access the internet from the 4G modem provided in the hub. Thus, you can save your phone's battery by not connecting to the infotainment via Hotspot every time.
It is based on Android 10.0 with 4 GB RAM, so applications can be installed directly from the Google Play Store to the device. The smart connectivity features include Bluetooth, GPS, and Wifi ready to make driving easy. Besides, it is possible to integrate a reverse camera.
The audio of Lenovo D1 4G 9″ is fine with a few user-configurable equaliser options. For everyday use, whether listening to music and radio or using voice navigation, the sound is crisp and clear, though lacking the punch and tonal richness one would expect from high-end music systems.
Price: Tk18,000
Where to buy: Ayon Motors
Barfond +3D 360° 9"
The Barfond +3D 360° 9" infotainment system is the most expensive option on this list but also an innovative option for those willing to enhance their car's multimedia and safety features.
While having the same 9-inch touchscreen as others, it is more responsive and clear enough although not the best in terms of resolution.
What sets this infotainment apart is its 360° surround-view camera support. This infotainment comes with additional cameras and hence allows for a comprehensive view of your surroundings while parking or manoeuvring in tight spaces, making driving safer and more convenient.
The system combines inputs from multiple cameras around the vehicle to create a seamless 3D view, especially in crowded or narrow areas. If you don't want the advanced camera system, it supports a reverse camera for added assistance when parking.
The audio quality of this infotainment is good and also comes with adjustable equaliser settings. While the onboard audio may not satisfy those seeking the deepest bass or richest sound, it is more than adequate for everyday use and media streaming.
Price: Tk20,000
Where to buy: Auto Zone Bangladesh
