It’s been a long time coming since Kenwood announced to Ausdroid that their Android Auto head units were coming, but arrived they have (last month actually) and you can now purchase them from your local car audio retailer.
There’s two main models available – the DDX916WS and DNX-8160DABSN – while a third, the DDX916WS will be heading to Toyota,Subaru and Mitsubishi Vehicles as an OEM solution – yep, they’ll be the head unit installed in your new car if you buy one.
The DDX916WS starts at just over $1,000 but comes with great features including a capacitive touch screen. But if money is no object then the DNX-8160DABSN at $1,800 is a better option with built-in GARMIN Navigation System.
Specs:
| DDX9016DABS | DDX916WS | DNX8160DABSN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7″ Capacitive LED touch screen | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bluetooth HFP1.6 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dual Phone Hands Free | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Android Auto and Apple CarPlay | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wifi “Air” Mirroring ready (Miracast and Apple Airplay) | Requires KCA-WL100 option (RRP $129) | ||
| DAB+ Digital Tuner includes Antenna | ✔ | ✔ | |
| 13 Band EQ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Digital Time Alignment | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| High Resolution Audio | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| AAC Music Streaming(iOS) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 5V,RCA Pre-out x 3 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dual USB -Max 1.5A Charging | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| USB Video out to ext monitor | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dual Camera Inputs | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Direct OEM Steering Wheel Remote | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Air Gesture Feature | ✔ | ||
| GARMIN Navigation System Built IN | ✔ | ||
Scott is a pretty big fan of his Pioneer Android Auto setup, and we’re looking into getting a review unit installed to take a look at Kenwoods implementation. Even more car manufacturers are installing Android Auto (and Apple CarPlay) in their vehicles, so finally car entertainment systems are getting smarter.
If you’re in the market for a new car stereo, head into your local dealer and see if they can order you one of these units.
