Just because your car rolled off the production line with a dated stereo doesn't mean you're stuck with it. Whether you're driving a classic, a camper, or a company lease car, there are now more upgrade options than ever – with head units offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, slick DAB+ digital radio, touchscreen nav, smart Bluetooth, and a bigger, brighter display than you thought possible.
Even better, most units will fit cleanly into factory dash spaces, with vehicle-specific adaptors and plug-and-play kits that make DIY installation easier than you think. So, whether you're chasing a top-end infotainment overhaul or just want to stream Spotify and take hands-free calls, here’s our top pick of the best in-dash head units for 2025.
Best for Smart Floating Screens: Pioneer SPH-EVO107DAB
If your dash space is limited but your ambitions aren't, Pioneer’s SPH-EVO107DAB delivers a 10.1in floating HD touchscreen with a smart, adjustable mount, all for around £899. Compatible with both single- and double-DIN spaces, it offers wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+, Bluetooth, reverse camera support, and slick WebLink app control. Bonus: it retains OEM menu functions in compatible vehicles. A futuristic interface with real-world usability. pioneer.co.uk
Best Value Full-Featured Option: Blaupunkt Hamburg 948 DAB
The Hamburg 948 DAB is one of the most stacked systems you can buy in 2025. Its 6.75in touchscreen is sharp, responsive and easy to navigate. It supports both CarPlay and Android Auto (wired), DAB+, Bluetooth, rear camera and steering wheel controls. Audio quality is solid and there's a 10-band EQ for those who like to tweak. For around £899, it’s a lot of tech for your dash. autosound.co.uk
Best Budget Upgrade with Pro Features: Kenwood DMX6523DABS
This 6.8in HD mechless model from Kenwood is just what you need for a simple, straightforward upgrade. With wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, smartphone mirroring, rear-view camera input, Bluetooth, DAB+, a USB charging port, front and rear subwoofer preouts, a 13-band EQ and digital time alignment, it’s all part of a single DIN short chassis design for easy installation. And at around £350, it’s easy on the wallet too. kenwood-electronics.co.uk
Best Wireless CarPlay for Less: JVC KW-M695DBW
A short-body Single DIN fit with a slick 6.8in capacitive screen, this £350 JVC unit offers wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+, Bluetooth, USB quick charging, and decent sound customisation. It supports reverse cameras and steering wheel controls too. It’s a solid pick if you want wireless smartphone integration without spending big. uk.jvc.com
Best Flip-Out Screen for Compact Cars: Blaupunkt London 500 DAB
Need a big screen but only have a Single DIN slot? The London 500 DAB flips out a 7in display from its slim chassis, offering wired CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+, Bluetooth and full AV and camera support, all for around £700. A neat option for campers, older vehicles or any driver wanting modern features in a compact form. autosound.co.uk
Best for Drivers on a Budget: Road Angel RA-X621BT
It may come from a brand known for dash cams, but this £199 unit delivers plenty. With a 7in touchscreen, DAB+, wired Android Auto and CarPlay, and compatibility with steering wheel controls and reverse cameras, it’s a surprisingly complete package. A great choice for simple upgrades or first-time fitters. roadangelgroup.com
Best for Wireless Everything: Sony XAV-AX4050
Sony’s XAV-AX4050 is a tidy double-DIN upgrade that ticks all the boxes. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto? Check. USB-C fast charging? Check. Compact chassis for easier installs? You bet, and all for round £499. It fires up in seconds, connects automatically, and offers a responsive 6.95in capacitive touchscreen that’s clear and functional. Physical buttons below the screen keep essential controls close, while compatibility with DAB+, reverse cams, and steering wheel buttons round out the package. sony.co.uk
Best Oversized Display: Snooper SMH-550 DAB
The SMH-550 DAB packs a whopping 10.1in floating screen into a single DIN unit with a £399 price tag. With DAB+, Android Auto and CarPlay (wired and wireless), iGO navigation via Micro-SD, Bluetooth and AV inputs, it brings serious tech to older vans and cars. Just make sure your cabin can accommodate the size – it’s a beast. snooper.eu
Best Off-Road Ready Unit: Stinger Horizon10 iX210E
The Stinger Horizon10 is an adventurer's dream. Its 10.1in HD screen is IP65 rated, making it splash-resistant for outdoor builds, and it supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+ and Bluetooth, with HDMI and four camera inputs. Bonus features like accessory control, ENLIGHT10 lighting integration, and AudioControl DSP compatibility, plus a price tag of around £899, make this one for the adventurous. stingersolutions.co.uk
How to Upgrade Your Head Unit
Swapping out your in-car stereo isn't as hard as it sounds. Today’s aftermarket head units, such as those shown here, are designed to fit standard single- or double-DIN slots, and most cars can accommodate one or the other with the help of a fascia kit and harness adapter. Plug-and-play kits allow for simple installs that can be reversed if you're leasing, and most online retailers will list the exact parts you need for your make and model.
If you’re handy with tools and YouTube tutorials, you can go the DIY route when it comes to fitting. Otherwise, budget up to £100 for a professional install – many retailers like Halfords offer fitting services, or you can visit a local car audio specialist for a neater job and integration with steering wheel controls, factory cameras, and other audio components.
