New CX-5 Headunit Master Thread

Any chance that they would be able to upgrade the device to android 4.0 as android 2.3 is a little dated. Does the wp9900 have wireless or Bluetooth connectivity? Any idea on if they could provide a test unit or what the return policy would be?
 
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I asked people of wp9900 and they told me that the unit they are adapting will be plug and play using the same wires as for the tomtom.

Which one was the wp9900 again, was that the one in development?

I spoke to my mazda dealership, they had no idea that any of this was possible however I have the electrical "specialist" in their service dept checking it out. I have to go in for a system update next week so I should have more info then. I wonder if there would be a way to hack the system to push video via the usb hub to the screen, maybe via a rgb - usb convertor or something.
 
1) WP9900 from Wonder Proud company. is an Android Car Navigation Box running 2.3.5 that can connect to the OEM TouchScreen. This device can output the 480*272 resolution like the Tomtom Nav from Mazda. Additionally you can mirror the signal from your android phone via mirrorlink. I have asked regarding the compatibility of this device to the Mazda CX-5:

"Hi Iker

WP9900 is USD360/pcs including 3G and wifi.

However; for Mazda CX-5 USB navigation,
we’re now on the way developing for USB support on our navigation box.
It could take a while to finish.

Would you like to try WP9900 before the solution is ready?

Best regards,
Rox
Wonde Proud Technology Co. Ltd."

Advantages: Android Engine (for Navigation) + mirroring
Disadvantages: Only Android compatible. I don't know dimensions and perhaps do not fit on the area for the Tomtom NAV system (the place I want to use due to the wire system is already there).


http://www.wondeproud.com/product_16...tfeatures.html


2)MimicsX2. This system is provided as small PCBs. It can mirror HDMI/MHL signals from Phone (via cable) from the device to the Touchscreen. The touch pressing is sent to the phone by bluetooth.
Phone <- Cable HDMI/MHL -> MimicsX2 <-Cable->Touchscreen <-Bluetooth-> Phone
It has a MicroSD slot for future upgrades.

Advantages: Android & Apple IOS mirroring compatible
Price: 209 AUS Dollar
Small enough to fit inside the place for the Mazda Tomtom NAV system.
Disadvantages: Only for mirroring. But it is solved as the phone is the CPU for everything. Supplied as PCBs

http://www.customgadz.com/store/cate...?id_category=2

I have seen a video of somebody using this MimicsX2 without wires by using the Allshare connectivity from Samsung (Galaxy NOte2)

The people is using on the Headunits by opening them and inserting this kind of PCBs connecting them to the Touchscreen signal and connecting back to the touchscreen.
In our case (CX-5) I thicnk we can do it by using the wire set left by Mazda for the NAV system.

we have to know if the wires of the NAVsystem from Mazda are enough to mount this system:
- how many wires to the Touchscreen (2/4/8)
- Voltage..
- Etc..

Thats the message direct from my buddy working on this with me. Some russian have a similar unit running and it's working to stream video. I had posted the video about a month ago. you can youtube it

DO NOT.... I repeat..... DO NOT go with the mimicsX2. I ordered one in October and I havent received anything. I have emailed Dave probably 30 times and still nothing... $220 gone. "CustomGadz" is a scam. Paypal wont refund.
 
I have heard that problems on delivery from customgadz. The one on developing is the wp9900.
Currently the wp9900 is a car navigaition module based in 2.3 android.
I have asked again for more information and more specific dates. I will keep you informed tomorrow. I asked them about updating to 4.0, about dimensions and if this unit can be fitted on the same place as the tomtom's, about the estimated date and about if the mirroring system can mirror iphone signal as well.
 
I have no very good news.
WP9900 is being manufactured by Wondeproud and distributed by Wondeproud (China) and Intraphex (USA).
Intraphex people told me that they were working on the WP9900 adaptation for the Mazdas (CX-5 & 6). Wondeproud told me that they are relasing the WP9200 solution for Mazdas. It is a Car Navigation Module based on Windows CE 6.0 (and not Android). They are announcing it on their website: http://www.wondeproud.com/news_USBNAVI_MAZDA.html

They told me that after they release the WP9200 for the Mazda's they will adapt the same solution for the 9900.

I noticed the following:
It is based on a USB connection... will they use our current USB connection to do that? I can't seen anything related to use the Mazda's supplied wire interface for Tomtoms....which is supposed to have as well USB connection (white switch on Tomtom's NAVI wire set)
 
I would much rather have a mirror of my phone than a stand alone android 2.3 based navigation system. And frankly I have no interest at all in a WinMo based connection. If the MimicsX2 worked (and was available), that looks like it would be great.

One thought - is the touchscreen in our cars multi-touch capable? I sort of doubt it, but it would be nice.
 
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I do agree.
It is interesting having an Android module, as you can install Apps. In the same way, this module has the capability of connecting by WIFI, BT & 3G. Specific Apps allows you to mirror an android to the module,so it could be mirrored to the HeadUnit as well.

What it is not acceptable (at least for me) a WinCE based module. It is completely obsolete.
I will wait for more information from this manufacturer... if anyone could try the mimicsX2 (taking the risk on the delevring problems that customgadget people are having...) It could very appreciated any tutorial:

The mimicsX2, could be placed on the same place as the Tomtom's.
The mimicsX2 ONLY connects to the HeadUnit by touchscreen control cables in order any pressing is detected by the Touchscreen
You additionally need to send video signal from your phone to the Headunit.
The best way is to do using the USB cables that Tomtom's uses to connect to the headunit (if it can be possible).
FRom the phone you can get a HDMI output signal, using Apple HDMI Connector (for IOS) and using MHL Cable for Android devices. This implies that the phone will be connected and charging on someport over the Tomtom's cap
If you want to mirror the HDMI signal WIRELESSLY, you will need an additional device connected to the "Video input" of the HEadunit:

A) For Android Devices there are some solutions: Allshare Cast [samsung] or Miracast. These devices are based on WIFI-Direct, which allows you to connect by WIFI from Phone to device directly without a common WIFI network
B) For IOS Devices there are some solutions
1.- IMirrorPlay: http://www.imirrorplay.com/en/. Direct transmission
2.- Airplay Mirroring [Apple TV]: Airplay Mirroring devices are based on sending the signal via WIFI, so you have to be connected both (Telephone and Receiver to the same WIFI network)

So... at least you need:
MimicsX2 = 200 USD

ANDROID BASED SYSTEM
-----------------------------------
MHL Cable = 18 USD (Customgadgets say that some "clone" MHL cables don't work)
WIFI OPtion1 (SAmsung Devices) = 70USD [SAmsung AllShsare Cast Dongle]
WIFI Option2 (Android Devices - check compatibility list) =70USD [Netgear PTV3000] MIRACAST Based DEvice
http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/18/netgear-ptv3000-miracast-adapter-supports-android-devices/

IOS BASED SYSTEM (Apple DEvices)
-----------------------------------
HDMI Dongle for IOS = 50USD
WIFI Option3 (IOs DEvices) = 79USD


FOR ANY SYSTEM
----------------------------------------
Extra Cost: WE actually don't know hoe to connect an HDMI signal to the Headunit. Some conversor is needed?
How to connect white switch wires to get the video HDMI signal?
 
Leedos-

I bought something similar to this. You get a pirated version of a gps card. You cannot get map up dates...
 
Crutchfield suggests that I will lose functionality in the arm rest USB and auxillary inputs, can this be confirmed? YES the arm rest USB is not functional after replacing the head unit.

Have you came up with a solution on how to get the USB/ AUX back? Or working atleast? Perhaps being able to plug and charge? ...Maybe tapping into the vehicle ignition or cigarette lighter outlet, or to the radio so you can charge your iPhone via USB?
 
Of the vast world of the web this forum seems to be one of the few discussions out there on upgrading the stock head unit in a couple of threads.

I am not a CX-5 owner yet, but have done plenty of research on various vehicles lately and the CX-5 remains in the top spot. I did a test drive last weekend and have a pretty good offer from the dealer on a 2014 Touring without the Bose or Tech packages. My thoughts were to go with the base head unit and potentially upgrade it with the first year of ownership to something like a JVC, Alpine, Pioneer or Kenwood with hopefully a 7" screen so that I would have a better chance at seeing the details on the screen. I have to wear reading glasses these days, but not while driving.....ugh!!

However, in doing research for and going to one car audio installer in my area there has been little information except for this thread. This particular installer has not done a CX-5 and did not seem interested in looking into it. There are 2 more shops near that I can visit.

I have nothing really to add or questions at this moment since I have yet to purchase, but I do wish there were more discussions on the web and installation pictures. I guess because the aftermarket in dash nav head units are so expensive that is seems like a nutty investment.

As a hopeful future CX-5 owner I think I like everything else about the vehicle. The next closest on our list and the one my wife likes is the 2014 Subaru Forester and its infotainment option is about 2 or 3 steps below the stock CX-5 option IMO in sound and functionality and would need to be upgraded for sure.

Edit: the test drive was in the Touring with the tech package and not being real finicky with audio I thought the Bose system sounded pretty good to me, but the young guy from the dealership cranked it up a bit too loud. There was so much coming from that center dash speaker that it was overwhelming. I have seen others comment on this. I wasn't sure if there was a way to balance more to the back, but since I am going with the stock 6 speaker option I guess it doesn't matter.
 
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I'd recommend not upgrading the head unit if you get the touch screen version. You'd be sacrificing some significant functionality that can only be had on the OEM unit (car settings, arm rest USB and AUX. And you might have difficulty with the bluetooth mic, though I'm not sure about that). The base model w/o the touch screen is so basic that there is little to sacrifice. This is also why you likely haven't seen much discussion on a swap as the vast majority of the models include a decent head unit.

If you are interested, the install is pretty easy and something you could probably do yourself. The kit in the first thread of this post provides a nice fit.
 
Have you came up with a solution on how to get the USB/ AUX back? Or working atleast? Perhaps being able to plug and charge? ...Maybe tapping into the vehicle ignition or cigarette lighter outlet, or to the radio so you can charge your iPhone via USB?

I haven't found a solution. But the unit I bought has a special apple 30 pin connector that I plug into anyway. I think with the right HU, you might be able to splice into the wiring to the armrest to make it functional again, but I'm not really sure. It'd require pulling the panels around the cup holders and the shifter.
 
You can always run a new AUX and USB line to the existing position on the center console. Almost all the aftermarket touchscreen headunits have USB and AUX inputs on the back. My biggest concern is the rear view camera. From what I understand I would need to run a new line for the camera from the rear of the car to the headunit and that doesn't really sound like much fun. You may also have to replace the camera if you can't figure out how to splice the existing wiring coming out if it so you can connect it to a new headunit.
 
Of the vast world of the web this forum seems to be one of the few discussions out there on upgrading the stock head unit in a couple of threads.

I am not a CX-5 owner yet, but have done plenty of research on various vehicles lately and the CX-5 remains in the top spot. I did a test drive last weekend and have a pretty good offer from the dealer on a 2014 Touring without the Bose or Tech packages. My thoughts were to go with the base head unit and potentially upgrade it with the first year of ownership to something like a JVC, Alpine, Pioneer or Kenwood with hopefully a 7" screen so that I would have a better chance at seeing the details on the screen. I have to wear reading glasses these days, but not while driving.....ugh!!

However, in doing research for and going to one car audio installer in my area there has been little information except for this thread. This particular installer has not done a CX-5 and did not seem interested in looking into it. There are 2 more shops near that I can visit.

I have nothing really to add or questions at this moment since I have yet to purchase, but I do wish there were more discussions on the web and installation pictures. I guess because the aftermarket in dash nav head units are so expensive that is seems like a nutty investment.

As a hopeful future CX-5 owner I think I like everything else about the vehicle. The next closest on our list and the one my wife likes is the 2014 Subaru Forester and its infotainment option is about 2 or 3 steps below the stock CX-5 option IMO in sound and functionality and would need to be upgraded for sure.

Edit: the test drive was in the Touring with the tech package and not being real finicky with audio I thought the Bose system sounded pretty good to me, but the young guy from the dealership cranked it up a bit too loud. There was so much coming from that center dash speaker that it was overwhelming. I have seen others comment on this. I wasn't sure if there was a way to balance more to the back, but since I am going with the stock 6 speaker option I guess it doesn't matter.


Yea the swap is very VERY easy. If you get the CX-5 with touchscreen, I'd recommend keeping it. If you have the basic 5.8 piece of crap OEM that I got. You risk nothing. Installing it is a piece of cake. If you chose to get it. Let us know. I've done it, I'm sure many others have too. We can help. A aftermarket installer will charge you probably close to $200.
 
I haven't found a solution. But the unit I bought has a special apple 30 pin connector that I plug into anyway. I think with the right HU, you might be able to splice into the wiring to the armrest to make it functional again, but I'm not really sure. It'd require pulling the panels around the cup holders and the shifter.

Very nice. I got a replica of the OEM touchscreen for my CX 5. One of the $500 off amazon. Works wonders. But It sucks because I can't use the armrest!!!! LOL
Looks like I'll have a project over the weekend. I've been meaning to do it. Just haven't had anyone say it works or it doesn't. Thanks
 
You can always run a new AUX and USB line to the existing position on the center console. Almost all the aftermarket touchscreen headunits have USB and AUX inputs on the back. My biggest concern is the rear view camera. From what I understand I would need to run a new line for the camera from the rear of the car to the headunit and that doesn't really sound like much fun. You may also have to replace the camera if you can't figure out how to splice the existing wiring coming out if it so you can connect it to a new headunit.

Might have to do that. I know what wires it is, and I know where they lead to. It's just... What to attach them too to make them work... If you've taken your old head unit out, you'll see that the rear view camera is nothing more then a yellow auxiliary plug you just unplug, and plug it back into your new HU. If you have to run a new line:

1. Route the line down under the dash near the heater/ cabin air filter on passenger side
2. Unscrew/ un bolt the panels on passenger side door
3. Peel away the door seal
4. Run the line up the passenger side A Pillar and thru the to the passenger side rear door
5. Run it past the B and C pillar
6. Go to the rear hatchback, and undo the clips holding the headliner up and just pull it down (A little to get your arm in there)
7. I just pushed all the wiring up into the headliner and pulled it out where you pulled the headliner down
8. Pull passenger side black "s" tube off (REMEMBER HOW YOU TOOK IT OFF/ tricky getting it back on)
9. Run the wire thru that and then undo the hatchback cover, be careful, I broke some clips. They are about $1.26 to replace.
10. Find your back up cam wiring and presto, tie it into the existing wiring
11. Put everything back together.

If you can't find their wiring because it's all shrink tubed up. Let me know and I'll go out and pull mine apart and tell you what wires you need to tap into. Best of luck.
Hatch_and_wagon_with_pillar_layout.jpg
 
According to what I have read the camera in the CX-5 is not the normal yellow RCA connection but connects to an internal LAN of sort in the car through a controller module in the rear of the car. There is not an RCA connector on the back of the factory headunit. Now I may be able to splice into the line that goes from the camera to the controller and use that as a starting point to run a new line, however it may end up being simpler to purchase a new camera that uses the standard RCA connection. Has anyone with the factory rear view camera installed a new headunit? If so did you end up having to replace the camera or were you able to wire it into the new headunit?
 
My thoughts were to go with the base head unit and potentially upgrade it with the first year of ownership to something like a JVC, Alpine, Pioneer or Kenwood with hopefully a 7" screen so that I would have a better chance at seeing the details on the screen. I have to wear reading glasses these days, but not while driving.....ugh!!
[...]
As a hopeful future CX-5 owner I think I like everything else about the vehicle. The next closest on our list and the one my wife likes is the 2014 Subaru Forester and its infotainment option is about 2 or 3 steps below the stock CX-5 option IMO in sound and functionality and would need to be upgraded for sure.

I was thinking of doing the same for the CX-5, save some money by going down a trim and use the money I saved to install a superior NAV system. I need to really think about it, though, since any aftermarket stuff does not increase resale value, but at least I can enjoy it fully while I have it.

As for the Forester, that's also second on my list (Consumer Reports just put out a review yesterday putting it in first place, way ahead of everything else, but mainly because of great visibility). However, discussion forums are full of hate on the Forester NAV system, even more hate than this forum here, so the Forester stays second behind the CX-5. And as well, I'm weary of the 170 HP CVT transmission, it's a full second slower than the CX-5 to 60 mph!
 
Yea the swap is very VERY easy. If you get the CX-5 with touchscreen, I'd recommend keeping it. If you have the basic 5.8 piece of crap OEM that I got. You risk nothing. Installing it is a piece of cake. If you chose to get it. Let us know. I've done it, I'm sure many others have too. We can help. A aftermarket installer will charge you probably close to $200.

Thanks
I am moving a little closer to closing a deal for a CX-5 Touring so I will have the touch screen and it is nice to know that I can add the Mazda part to add nav without the expense of the getting the Tech package. Still a little pricey for that part, but I like the idea of having in dash nav compared to using my very outdated Garmin Nuvi.

I was thinking of doing the same for the CX-5, save some money by going down a trim and use the money I saved to install a superior NAV system. I need to really think about it, though, since any aftermarket stuff does not increase resale value, but at least I can enjoy it fully while I have it.

As for the Forester, that's also second on my list (Consumer Reports just put out a review yesterday putting it in first place, way ahead of everything else, but mainly because of great visibility). However, discussion forums are full of hate on the Forester NAV system, even more hate than this forum here, so the Forester stays second behind the CX-5. And as well, I'm weary of the 170 HP CVT transmission, it's a full second slower than the CX-5 to 60 mph!

I thought the Forester had a nice refined feel and I thought it was quiet inside, but unlike the CX-5 test drive I never got an opportunity to get it over 35 mph in a very high traffic urban area. In fact most of the drive we were stuck at red lights. So it was not a fair comparison on interior noise levels.

I feel pretty good about going with the CX-5.
 

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