2008 Subaru Impreza offers iPod integration

Subaru on Monday debuted its integrated iPod interface for the 2008 Subaru Impreza. The seamless integration technology, available as an accessory on select models of the 2008 Subaru Impreza, allows customers to control most iPod functions through the dashboard "head unit" (and steering wheel controls if so equipped) -- including text display of playlist, artist, album and song information, fast forward and rewind, and browsing by playlist, artist, album, Podcast, and Audiobook. The system also charges the music player's battery. According to the company, the new Subaru Impreza iPod interface also manages the digital music player's power by turning the unit off when the vehicle's ignition is turned off, and resuming playback when the vehicle's ignition is turned back on.

When the Impreza audio system is switched to AM/FM/CD or Aux modes, the iPod will pause, resuming playback once the vehicle's SAT button is pushed. In contrast, when connecting a portable music player via a standard auxiliary input cable, the player will not pause, continuing to play selected content. The new interface also locates the dock connector in the vehicle's center console, providing a convenient storage location for the device.

Filed under: iPod