All you need to know about car infotainment systems

In today’s tech-driven world, car infotainment systems have evolved dramatically over the past decade. What was once a luxury reserved for prestige models is now a standard feature in most everyday cars. 

Far more than just a way to play music, modern infotainment systems bring together navigation, smartphone connectivity, entertainment, and even safety features, revolutionising the way we drive and interact with our new cars. 

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what infotainment systems actually do, why they’re a must-have for modern drivers, and which systems stand out in today's market. We’ll cover: 

Let’s keep it simple: an infotainment system is your car's central hub for entertainment and information, hence the name ‘infotainment’. 

A car infotainment system combines functions like navigation, audio, hands-free calling, and climate control into one easy-to-use interface, usually via a central touchscreen. The exact setup varies between manufacturers, but most systems feature a screen around 8 to 10 inches. 

You’ll typically control the system using a mix of touchscreen inputs, physical buttons, and steering wheel controls. Some models also include a rotary dial on the centre console and voice control, allowing you to stay connected without taking your eyes off the road. 

A good infotainment system can completely change your driving experience. It’s not just about having the latest technology; it’s about safety, convenience, and keeping everything you need within reach. 

With features like smartphone integration, voice recognition, and hands-free calling, modern car infotainment systems help you stay focused on the road. That means less fiddling with your devices and more attention on driving.

For families, a car infotainment system can be a game changer. Kids can stay entertained with music or media, while parents can benefit from seamless control over everything from climate settings to phone calls. 

Infotainment systems come packed with a range of features, such as:

• Touchscreen display - The heart of the system, a touchscreen display usually ranges from 7 to 12 inches, depending on the car. On some high-end models, you might even get dual screens or a curved one. 
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto - Mirror your smartphone to your infotainment display, giving you easy access to Google Maps, Spotify, and messaging. 
• Navigation - Whether built-in or accessed through smartphone mirroring, navigation is ideal for avoiding delays on the go. 
• Voice control - Useful for keeping your hands on the wheel. Just say what you need, and the infotainment system will get it done. 
• Bluetooth & USB connectivity - Stream music, take calls or charge your device easily. 
• DAB digital radio - Enjoy your favourite radio station or stream music through apps like Spotify and Apple Music. 
• Climate control integration - Control your car's heating, cooling, and ventilation. 
• Over-the-air updates - These allow your system to receive the latest software and features without a trip to the dealership. 

If you’re after a luxury car, you might find: 

• Custom driver profiles 
• Built-in dash cam 
• Augmented reality 
• Digital assistants 

What works for one driver might not work for another. That’s why it’s worth your time to do some research before committing to a new car. Think about your needs and preferences, and consider the following: 

• Do you prioritise music? If you like to drive along listening to your finely crafted playlists, ensure your car features Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and also has Bluetooth connectivity. 
• Reliable navigation - If you’re not the best with directions, choose a car that features built-in navigation software and live traffic updates. It’s likely that you’ll find this on higher-spec cars, but always double-check to be sure. 
• Hands-free controls - If you’re a bit of a klutz, hands-free controls eliminate all potential dangers. Features like voice control and steering wheel buttons ensure that you keep your hand on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road. 
• Advanced technology - Sometimes you want to go all out. If this is the case, go for a system with cloud connectivity, personalisation, and even remote updates. 

If you’ve never driven a car with an infotainment system before, firstly, welcome to the 21st century, and secondly, we know how overwhelming it can be. 

The best thing you can do? Take your time. Grab your car’s handbook (if it has one) and spend a few minutes getting familiar with the system and its settings. Remember, take a deep breath and stay calm! 

Once you’ve understood the basics, start personalising. Pair your phone, save your favourite destinations, and try out features like voice control. Trust us, investing a little time upfront will save you hours of stress down the line. 

If you’re a busy family, you might not be after the glitz and the glamour of the infotainment systems found in a luxury car. You’ll want something that will keep the kids happy, navigate you to new places stress-free, and keep you connected on the go. We’d recommend:

Don’t worry, no modern car is turning up without some sort of infotainment system. They’re built into cars like a motherboard is into a computer, and you can’t really replace it. Especially if it's a lease car, you cannot change it.  

You can add some extra features, such as a dash cam, but always double-check with your finance provider before doing anything. Remember, a lease car is owned by the finance provider, so you need to ask permission before making changes.

Car infotainment systems have come a long way and have transformed the way we drive, stay connected, and enjoy time behind the wheel. 

Whether you’re after a tech-packed family SUV or a prestige model with cutting-edge features, a good infotainment system can make every journey more interactive, safer, and convenient. 

Ready to find your perfect match? Browse our latest prestige car leasing deals for cars with top-tier tech, or if you’re after something more practical, check out our family car leasing offers.