I have a Middle East spec 2013 LC which has the factory-fitted double-din CD/BT/Radio set, no reversing camera, separate HVAC controls, original steering stereo controls and a 6 speaker setup. All music and nav requirements are being met by my iPhone which is mounted with a CD slot bracket. The car has no modifications at all and is in mint condition.
Thinking of upgrading to a more useful infotainment system - the main use will be to have a reversing camera (the Mrs is using the car and needs it) and to have a cleaner look with some modern day (!) tech, without deviating too much from the factory look.
Have got 3-4 options as I see it, all around the same cost:
1. Various Android-based 9-10 inch screen solutions which look decent enough, are plug and play and have good features on paper; but functionality and overall execution is generally poor, startup speed slow (big minus), and reliability unclear. CarPlay might be possible with a separate dongle. I'm not an Android phone or tablet user.
2. Genuine Toyota double-din with a screen for the reverse camera, but without nav; again plug and play (very hard to find but have located a new unit). Probably the worst value for money but maintains the factory look best.
3. Pioneer or Alpine double-din with CarPlay, reverse camera, etc (inspired by what gets fitted in ICONs) - properly engineered vs. the Chinese Android alternatives, but will probably require more modification to work with steering controls, etc.
Having a hard time deciding - any thoughts on the above ?
Thinking of upgrading to a more useful infotainment system - the main use will be to have a reversing camera (the Mrs is using the car and needs it) and to have a cleaner look with some modern day (!) tech, without deviating too much from the factory look.
Have got 3-4 options as I see it, all around the same cost:
1. Various Android-based 9-10 inch screen solutions which look decent enough, are plug and play and have good features on paper; but functionality and overall execution is generally poor, startup speed slow (big minus), and reliability unclear. CarPlay might be possible with a separate dongle. I'm not an Android phone or tablet user.
2. Genuine Toyota double-din with a screen for the reverse camera, but without nav; again plug and play (very hard to find but have located a new unit). Probably the worst value for money but maintains the factory look best.
3. Pioneer or Alpine double-din with CarPlay, reverse camera, etc (inspired by what gets fitted in ICONs) - properly engineered vs. the Chinese Android alternatives, but will probably require more modification to work with steering controls, etc.
Having a hard time deciding - any thoughts on the above ?
