So I just got myself an RX-8 yesterday, beatiful car!

Anyway, I wanted to upgrade the current bose player to the Sat Nav option, I wondered what would be the best way around this. I've seen some US based places listing new facias and then I can stick a normal double DIN unit in there but I think I would rather get whatever mazda provide with current RX-8's.

I called Mazda up but they said they dont sell them, so I thought maybe I could go to a breakers yard and pick one up, but would it fit straight in my RX-8? Its a 2004 model with Bose unit/speakers.



Oh yeah, I'm in the UK so I need some UK based ideas/suggestions

 

Dealer offer me an up grade for $2000 USD + labor.
You might want to install after market radio instead. You will probably get better setup & sound with after market.

I am going for car-pc.

Check or search for Metra kit or Corksport kit radio replacement threads.
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-interior-audio-electronics-24/metra-kit-out-157780/

 

Dealer in UK said it was factory fit only.

Yeah, I've looked into those car kits but I dont like the idea of paying so much for something that doesnt control your current display panel and talks of making alterations to yuor vehicle (snipping wires/cutting plastic).

 

To add to the factory sat/nav option, it's more than just throwing in a flip up hood and adding a screen. Even if you avoid the dealer and buy all your stuff online, you're still looking at big money and a lot of work.

Honestly, replacing the stock headunit with aftermarket nav is really the smartest option. Not sure if you've read the kit's instructions properly, but there is no "snipping wires". Like any headunit install, the kit comes with a harness that plugs into the stock harness. You crimp/solder/tie/heatshrink/your choice the included harness to the harness that comes with your new navigation unit. All of it can be removed, factory headunit reinstalled, and nobody would ever know an aftermarket unit was in there. I own the Corksport kit (the kit you would need in the UK). I have been very pleased with it. Never had any glitches or errors with it what so ever. And the color match/finish is dead on...... unlike some other options out there for us US bastards.

An aftermarket unit is cheaper, easier to install, gives you better sound quality, and provides a limitless path for upgrading.

 

If you want to up grade but keep an OEM look with screen, go with car pc.

Check alz0rz works
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-interior-audio-electronics-24/my-carpc-153088/