Hi folks,
There are aftermarket Android Auto/Apple Carplay devices out there for Giulias. Does anyone have experience with any on an early model?
🦗 ;D
Old thread, I know... However, I've just acquired a 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce and am eager to add Apple CarPlay. After about 6 hours of research online and discussions with local car audio suppliers in Adelaide, I've realised it's not a cheap exercise (i.e., $500 plus). Here are the options I've found for enabling CarPlay in the Giulia, which involve fitting additional units/components:
1) Tonkins Car Audio &/or GT Autosound (Local incl. installation) = $1600~
2) The CarPlayer (in US) (https://thecarplayer.com/products/apple-carplay-alfa-romeo-giulia-stelvio-quadrifoglio-2017-2020?variant=31739348648073) US$625 = A$945 + Shipping
3) ENG-Custom (https://shop2.eng-custom.com/en/module-android-auto-apple-carplay/automotive-eng-custom-alfa-romeo-giulia-stelvio-carplay-android-auto-mirror-link-imperium.html) (Italy) €370 = $612 + Shipping
4) Integrated Automotive (https://integratedautomotive.co.uk/product/alfa-romeo-2016-2019-giulia-stelvio-carplay-and-android-auto-retrofit-kit/) £475.00 = A$921 + Shipping
5) Naviplus (AU supplier) $900 + professional installation
Notes:
Options 2,3 & 4 appear to be self-install if you have some know how/experience, which isn't an issue for me.
Option 4 is the most concise and they have been very helpful with the myriad of queries I have raised.
Most options retain and integrate the steering wheel/console menu controls but require an external mic (hate this!) which units do not retain or may not use the OEM mic.
To allow wired CarPlay/AA the USB setup might require popping out one of the USB port below the vents at the front of the of console to add an adapter in that USB port.
Wireless CarPlay is generally offered on all options however Techs for Option 4 recommend wireless and not wired connectivity.
It's complicated and a bit PITA to have CarPlay, but I've decided to go with the ENG-Custom solution and will update with the results. Stay tuned!
Hi Folks... after some deliberation I ended up going with Gt Auto Sound they fitted the NaviPlus system and I finally have an operable Apple CarPlay on my Giulia. Not the cheapest option, but I just wanted to go for a professionally fitted system with some warranty.
https://www.naviplus.com.au/online-store/Alfa-Romeo-Giulia-952-APIX-iDrive-Android-Auto-&-Apple-CarPlay-Integration-p193682029
The NaviPlus unit does the job however some of the settings needs to be set well so it auto enters CarPlay on startup. It's almost there but I note have the solution $1,450 later. I now can use the Waze App, Google Maps, Siri from steering wheel, Calls, Messages. Happy days 😀
Thanks heaps for returning to share your experience. Very useful info. :)