Audi RS8 Apple CarPlay Radio Upgrade for Ocala Client

A client from Ocala recently contacted Sound Depot and Performance to inquire about upgrading the entertainment system in his 2013 Audi RS8 with an Apple CarPlay-equipped radio. We talked to the client about the vehicle and how he used it, then suggested that the Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX, with its 7-inch touchscreen, would be an ideal solution. Content with the plan, the client dropped his car off with us so we could begin the installation.

Custom Audi RS8 Radio Installation

The silver accent stripe was added for an integrated look.

Thanks to the Apple CarPlay radio the client can safely use his smartphone while driving.

The USB and HDMI connections for the radio were mounted in the pocket.

Our team did a great job making the new radio look right at home in the dash.

In most vehicles, we can use source a kit that allows a standard 2-DIN radio to fit into the opening provided for the factory radio. Because of how infrequently RS8s are modified, no such kit exists for this vehicle. As such, our fabrication team set to work in creating a one-off trim piece to fit the new Pioneer multimedia receiver in the dash of this exotic.

The team used a combination of acrylic plastic and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) to create a trim piece that matched the complex contours of the dash. A recessed mounting location for the radio was then created in the center of the trim piece and the edges were contoured to a smooth and flowing look that blended perfectly with the interior. Automotive body filler was used to ensure a perfectly smooth surface and the part was painted black to match the rest of the dash. Once in place, it’s hard to tell that we built the mounting trim from scratch – a true testament to the skills of our installation team.

With the radio integration complete, the installation team ran a USB and HDMI video input extension to the storage compartment behind the center armrest. The client can connect his smartphone and close the cover to keep everything in the vehicle looking neat and tidy.

Exotic Vehicle Upgrade Experts

As you can see from the photos, the interior of the client’s Audi RS8 is absolutely immaculate. Once our team completed the installation, the client returned to Sound Depot and Performance to experience the new radio for the first time. We showed him how to connect his phone and bring up the Apple CarPlay voice recognition feature of the radio. We went on to demonstrate how to make a phone call, reply to text messages and choose music on the phone to listen to. He was impressed with the installation and the features of the new Pioneer multimedia receiver.

If you are in the Gainesville area and are interested in upgrading the communication and entertainment technology in your vehicle, drop by Sound Depot and Performance and speak to one of our Product Specialists. Alternatively, you can schedule a consultation by calling the store or send us an e-mail using our contact page.