iPod-ready cars - Audi - Citroen

Audi
A3 and TT buyers have the option of ‘iPod connection’ for £150 and £175 respectively. It’s located in the glovebox, and makes your iPod controllable via the radio or multi-function steering wheel if fitted. You can’t specify ‘iPod connection’ if you’ve gone for either a CD changer or USB connection, though, because the free space in the glovebox is taken up.

The rest of the Audi range can be specced with the ‘Audi Music Interface’ for £200. It’s a universal connection for use with stereo audio sources and Apple’s iPod (generation 4 upwards).

You can control the iPod through the MMI (Multi Media Interface) and multi-function steering wheel. It also replicates the iPod display on the MMI screen – including the track titles.

The interface charges the iPod as well, and comes with a rubber storage tray. You will also need to purchase a separate adapter cable from your Audi dealer to use the interface.

BMW
All BMWs apart from the 7 Series and Z4 come with an auxiliary input to plug your iPod into. All you need is a 3.5mm jack cable and you can effectively use the car’s speakers instead of earphones.

For another £100 you can buy a lead that allows you to control the iPod using the stereo controls. If you buy a BMW with a multi-function steering wheel (standard on high-end cars, but a cost option on base models), you can control your iPod using the buttons on that.

If you don’t have an iPod, you can specify a USB interface (£205) on the 1, 3, 5, 6 Series, and the X5 and X6. You can then use any USB memory stick to play your favourite tunes.

Citroen
Buy a C1 and it will come with an auxillary input socket as standard. All you need is a 3.5mm jack lead to plug in your iPod or other MP3 player.

The rest of the Citroen range doesn’t come with any iPod preparation as standard - you’ll need to spec satellite-navigation (NaviDrive) which costs from £1650. This option comes with an auxiliary input.