GM Adds iPod Adapter to Some Cars

A big trend in the automotive industry is to offer optional iPod adapters that not only plug portable players into car stereos, but also display track information and allow drivers to control the iPod through the stock stereo. GM is getting into the game a bit late and on a limited basis by offering its new Personal Audio Link on the Chevy HHR, Chevy Cobalt, Pontiac G5, Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky only, at a cost of $159.

The price may sound expensive, especially because it doesn’t include installation, but it’s priced comparably to other manufacturers out there. Scion of course includes similar iPod links as standard equipment. We’re a bit surprised that this GM adapter isn’t available in more vehicles across its brands, but perhaps more current models will be added. Future models like the upcoming 2008 Cadillac CTS have iPod integration built-in. 

Comments

Does this mean only iPods, or any kind of mp3 player?

Nameless,
I believe it is only ipod, because of their unique adapter.
And for non-ipod users, there should be an AUXiliary jack for them, but just won't recharge them though.

Dave,
I got mine for around $300 installed for a 07 Civic, so I think the General's price is not that high. Because there are some drilling and panel-removing and re-installing involved, and it is a pain in the behind if I have to do it myself.

One thing nice GM has on many of its cars is a generic aux input so owners of any mp3 player can plug into their car. Nice to see the option added for those who really want the ipod specific features.

As usual ... Late to the party and always an afterthought/hindsight. Innovation = Immitation ... nice to see you (finally) made it GM. What's next? A GM diesel car in 2020 while everyone else is getting ready to start selling them in 2008?

I'm glad to see it as an option. First off, not everyone has an mp3 player, and not everyone who does uses an iPod. (Call me cheap.) iPod inputs tend to do away with the universal analog aux input (Scion is an exception), leaving people like me in the cold, and if they're standard equipment, it just adds cost to the car -- certainly more cost than a simple input jack. Better that the capability be an extra charge for people who actually need and want it.

the jack is just built into the radio and most are with it...so there shouldn't be any installation or any of that, they have had this for a while now

the jack is just built into the radio and most are with it...so there shouldn't be any installation or any of that, they have had this for a while now

Late to the party? What other manufacture besides Scion offers integrated Ipod controls with their factory stereo? I'll give you a hint - none. Never mind the fact that GM has been offering an auxiliary jack that will support any type of auxiliary audio device for over a year now.

cody
As far as I can predict what Rick was thinking, I think he was talking about the option to have one installed, not standard equipment. :)

Who knows. I hate that I'm starting to play the roll of domestic defender. I like all cars, although I try to stay away from Korean...only because I've spent 6 years in Korea and don't like their anti-US trade practices.

It seems like there are several out there that just troll around and post crap whenever they see anything positive about a domestic brand.

Who knows. I hate that I'm starting to play the roll of domestic defender. I like all cars, although I try to stay away from Korean...only because I've spent 6 years in Korea and don't like their anti-US trade practices.

It seems like there are several out there that just troll around and post crap whenever they see anything positive about a domestic brand.

Who knows. I hate that I'm starting to play the roll of domestic defender. I like all cars, although I try to stay away from Korean...only because I've spent 6 years in Korea and don't like their anti-US trade practices.

It seems like there are several out there that just troll around and post crap whenever they see anything positive about a domestic brand.

Who knows. I hate that I'm starting to play the roll of domestic defender. I like all cars, although I try to stay away from Korean...only because I've spent 6 years in Korea and don't like their anti-US trade practices.

It seems like there are several out there that just troll around and post crap whenever they see anything positive about a domestic brand.