Aftermarket DVD Navi?

[BTBAM]

Hey guys. I am pretty much a hardcore noob when it comes to Mazda3's in general as I dont even have one. I am about a month away from either getting a m3 hatchback or a pontiac vibe, both brand new. The one thing that is awesome about the vibe is that it comes with a nice 200 watt stock system with a monsoon sub. It has a simple double din head unit which I am planning on replacing with a Eclipse AVN-2454 double din dvd gps navigation system. My main cripe with the mazda3 is that the sound system is a pain in the ass to configure. I want the moonroof but dont want the 6 disc changer as I would want the stock mp3 system. However, what are my options in terms of putting this eclipse dvd navigation system in? Would it be possible to put it in the place of the stock system in that location on the dash? Having a good mp3 playing system is VERY important to my decision on what car to get and it is a shame Mazda had to make it such a process to add anything aftermarket. Please give me your suggestions on not only the system choices but also what car I should be getting.

Thanks,
Zach

 

[audimustang3]

mazda3

there is many ways to install that head unit in the 3 .a lot of people find the way. I use the speaker wire in the side panesl of the car to connect my hi input rca's to the amp with out taking the stereo out . now i got a perfect system , if you want to change the speakers do it but mazda3 stock speakers are perfect if you get a good amp and subs like jl audio the stereo is going to sound good.

 

[tsunami]

metra makes a dash kit for the three its not a big deal to change it out like it is in the mazda6 (HVAC controls and stuff) you do loose the small lcd display that gives you the outside temp, clock, and stuff. if you are okay with that then go ahead. and as far as vibe vs 3 if you aren't interested in the awd there really isn't a comparison drive both of them then you will for sure just deal with the slightly larger headache of the 3s audio system (great for stock but not tuner freindly)