I know there are several threads on this forum already about changing the Evo factory radio. I have read most of them but I have a few questions I would still like to ask. The radio has to go, I really dont like the system. So I have found a glossy black fascia replacement on ebay. I am going to fit a single din unit with a motorised flip display. I realise it will cover up the hazard button and possibly the top vents but I can live with that. I also dont care about losing the bluetooth and phone features. However I would still like to use the USB and AUX inputs next to the gearstick.Is this possible without major rewiring? I don't want to be cutting any cables I just want a straightforward iso connector fitting just in case I want to put the OE back in. My last question is can I expect the volume and mute buttons on the steering to still work?

Pioneer (for exemple) has some headunits with extra wire(option) for Blue&Me compatibility, check Blue&Me section, I posted a link.

A decent pioneer head unit will work with existing wheels controls with a patch lead, mine does, all I lost is windows button and the one mirrored on the other side. The other 6 still work.

Will loose existing USB port also, but personally I prefer mine in the glovebox as I can fit and forget about my iPod

Thanks for the info,it looks like I might lose a few features. Not sure if im getting a Pioneer unit. I will be getting whatever is on offer. I want a media centre with a touch screen more than just a stereo. I find the OE system very tedious when you are trying to scan through thousands of songs. I also hate the fact that it plays albums in alphabetical not numerical order.

In my view it would be better for you if you purchased chinese player. I have the player I've purchased via aliexpress dot com. It works fine and looks like a factory installed. If you need photos of what I've purchased, ask me - I will send you some photos. Fascia panel and players like Pioneer is not the best solution...By the way if you decide to purchase chinese head you won't face any difficulties with self installing - it is very easy. Search player for Fiat Linea (they are interchangeable)- they have launched a new player - it seems to be more practical than thay had before. All the buttons on the steering wheel will continue working.

tsvetkov said:

Fascia panel and players like Pioneer is not the best solution...

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I beg to differ, pioneer is a quality brand name with years and years of history, how can you seriously suggest a random Chinese unit would be better, both on quality and durability

Well regardless my options are slim anyway. As I said I wanted a full touch screen unit. But despite the size of the OE unit its still only single din. So a unit with a motorised flip out display is needed and theirs not many of those. At the moment I would rather get a cheap unit fitted that just did the job. To this end I have decided on Halfords own brand Ripspeed unit. Its certainly not swish but its got decent reviews and it will do the job.Should be getting it fitted in the next couple of months hopefully.

Most Easterly Pandas said:

I beg to differ, pioneer is a quality brand name with years and years of history, how can you seriously suggest a random Chinese unit would be better, both on quality and durability

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I meant that heads like Pioneer or whatever you like + fascia will look ugly in comparison with chinese head which looks like a preinstalled on a factory. Regarding the quality - conponents for all these players are generally being produced on the same factories. I am an owner of such a player and I must admit that it works good and I have absolutely no claims.

Hi I´m going to replace my head unit in My punto 2012. I think the one from china looks a whole lot better.
I really like some pictures of the chinese head unit you have. Who´s the seller? Maybe a link to his/hers site. Thanks Lasse/Sweden

LasseN,I could be wrong but i assume its this one .
http://www.aliexpress.com/item-img/Free-shipping-4-3-inch-Car-head-unit-player-with-Canbus-for-Fiat-Linea-Virtal-6/1057394617.html

Thanks Looks good. This must beth way to go. Anyone who´s bought from this supplier?

LasseN said:

Thanks Looks good. This must beth way to go. Anyone who´s bought from this supplier?

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Looks like tsvetkov has bought one so you will have to wait for a response on quality, sound difference, and specification versus original unit.

Hi,
Sorry for delayed reply. I purchased another one player in difference to represented above.
Mine has a wider display and changes completely with the cage and all the buttons.
http://www(dot)alibaba(dot)com/product-detail/Car-Dvd-Player-For-Fiat-Grande_1491727528.html
I don't think that both differ to each other as they have the same WINCE.
Regarding the quality - frankly spealking I am not a professional + I am using a stock speakers which quality i guess is not so good. But in my view it sounds not bad at least...By the way I know a lot of people who have a very expensive cars like Lexus or Land Cruiser who install chinese heads. I guess they would never purchase them if quality was bad-)