- Android Auto puts your phone's navigation, music and messages on the car screen, which is exactly what many older factory stereos lack.
- A basic Android Auto head unit starts at about 200 pounds, and a strong one rarely needs to cost more than 500.
- Wireless connection, a bigger screen and DAB radio are the features that most often persuade people to swap.
- Before you buy, check your phone, dash size, steering wheel controls and reversing camera.
Android Auto copies the main apps from your phone onto the car's screen: Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, calls and messages. Most new cars support it, but plenty of cars still on the road do not, and that gap is the main reason more drivers are looking at a new head unit.
Why it is so attractive
Many cars still do not have it. What Car? says most new cars support Android Auto, but it names exceptions such as the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, the Porsche 718 and the Toyota GR Supra. Older cars with a basic radio or a slow built in system are the obvious candidates for an upgrade.
It is affordable. T3 puts basic Android Auto units at roughly 200 pounds, and says you should not need to spend more than 500 for a strong one. What Car? quotes prices from about 250 pounds for brands such as Alpine, Pioneer, Sony and JVC.
It stays up to date. The maps and apps live on your phone, so the car does not fall behind the way a built in satnav does. Google announced a new design, 3D navigation, Gemini features and full HD video while parked for 2026, rolling out through the year. Some of it is aimed at specific car brands, so do not buy a unit on the promise of a feature that has not been confirmed for it.
The screen is bigger. T3 lists Android Auto units with 6.8 to 10.1 inch touchscreens, which are far easier to read and use than the small display in many older cars.
Wireless is now common. Some units connect to your phone without a cable. T3 lists the Sony XAV-AX4050 at about 400 pounds with wireless Android Auto, but also notes that other models do not offer it and that one wireless connection was described as patchy.
What to check before you buy
- Your phone: What Car? says phones on Android 10 or newer have Android Auto built in, while older ones need the app.
- Dash size: find out whether your car takes a single or a double DIN unit.
- Steering wheel controls and camera: you may need an interface to keep the buttons and a factory reversing camera working.
- Wired or wireless: a cable is usually more reliable and charges the phone at the same time.
- Fitting: many units are plug and play, or a high street fitter can do it. T3 mentions roughly 70 to 99 pounds at Halfords.
When it is not the answer
If your car already has Android Auto from the factory, a new unit adds much less. Read our guide on whether it is still worth replacing the factory unit, and check how a swap could affect your warranty.
Sources: What Car?, T3 and Kelley Blue Book.
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