New Honda Accord – Missing IPhone/iPod Connectivity
Recently, I checked out the new V-6 Honda Accord Coupe. Sitting in the driver seat, I was awed by the new, standard technology upgrades at my disposal: hands-free Bluetooth, XM Radio, a 270-watt audio system, the 18 standard safety features are enough to make any occupant feel safe and secure.. While I enjoyed the power of Honda’s 271 hp, 3.5 L, iVTEC engine, and the sportier look of the coupe model, I noticed something was missing from my drive—an iPhone/iPod connection/auxiliary jack.
Yes, I know it sounds picky but when 51 million people have an iPhone and another 260 million other people possess an iPod it would be in the best interest of Honda to make an iPhone/iPod connection the standard or at least an aux. jack. The iPhone 3GS, Apple’s current iPhone model, can play music over a Bluetooth connection, but the Hands Free Link system in the Accord does not play music over Bluetooth. The system only allows phone features to be used. One may contend, “well, just use a CD or the radio, or even, the XM Radio, a standard feature in the Accord!” All valid arguments, but with digital media now the norm, Accord owners should be able to carry and connect their complete music library to Honda’s 270-watt stereo system.
While XM Radio is great, it simply cannot replicate a customized digital collection. Sure an MP3 CD can be modified to hold 120-150 songs depending on the bit rate, but when iPhone/iPod can hold thousands of titles there is no comparison.
Of course, third-party iPhone/iPod systems can be purchased but the stereo system and dashboard will need to be re-configured . An LCD screen must be attached to the dashboard and the iPod car kit system is run through the stereo. The end result detracts from the original attractiveness of the Accord panel display and worst of all, lessons the value of the Accord.
Accord owners do have the option of purchasing iPhone/iPod to FM transmitters. The transmitter plays music through an idle radio station and connects to the bottom of an iPhone or iPod. Although after testing several “top end” transmitters like Belkin and Griffin, it felt as if I were listening to a walkman CD player without “shock technology”. Music tends to skip when traveling on bumpy roads, over potholes or even if the transmitter is touched. . The muffled, often garbled. Despite the Accord’s sophisticated stereo system, the FM transmitters managed to transform my 256kpbs ACC files into second-rate playback sound quality that resembled ringtones on my phone—rendering this technology Honeuseless.
While the lack of an iPhone/iPod connection may not be sufficient to prevent someone from purchasing a new Accord Coupe, the lack of a connection can be a disappointment. If Accord owners choose to listen to music through the stereo system they will enjoy several optional features, but features available in iPhone/iPod fitted cars such as, direct access and choice of titles, artists and custom playlists are not accessible. Honda will most likely provide iPhone/iPod technology as they release new 2011 and 2010 models in the future, but for now new Accord owners will have to settle for the factory equipment provided.
Written by Windy Reigns: Corona Dodge Dealer, Used Cars Dallas, Kansas City Infiniti Dealers
July 30, 2010 | Posted by Jim
Categories:
Tags: