Who makes Honda infotainment system?
Honda's latest infotainment software is developed in partnership with Google and runs on Android Automotive OS with Google Built-In. Honda handles vehicle integration and user interface tweaks, while Google supplies the core software, maps, and services. Earlier Honda systems were more in-house or used different suppliers for components.
Current setup: Google Built-In and Android Automotive OS
In recent model years, Honda has rolled out Google Built-In across many markets, providing a native Android-based experience through the car's center display. This shift moves core navigation, voice control, and apps onto the vehicle’s own system rather than relying solely on a smartphone connection.
What Google Built-In means for drivers
Google Built-In brings native Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant, and other Google services directly to the car's infotainment screen. Honda supplies its own vehicle-specific integrations and controls to maintain a consistent brand experience, while Google handles the software stack and cloud services.
Key features and capabilities you can expect from the current Honda-Google setup are as follows:
- Native Google Maps navigation with live traffic and route planning
- Google Assistant for hands-free control and queries
- Access to Google apps and services within the car interface
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates to keep the system current
- Smartphone integration options (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) alongside native Google apps
These features illustrate how Honda leverages Google Built-In to enhance in-car connectivity, convenience, and usability while preserving brand-specific controls and settings.
Historical and regional variations
Not all Honda models or markets use Google Built-In. Some regions or older models rely on Honda's earlier infotainment architecture or other suppliers for the UI and hardware components. In certain trims, you may also encounter Harman/Kardon audio branding or other branding elements that sit alongside the core system. The exact configuration can vary by model year, market, and trim level.
- Older Hondas may use an in-house or third-party infotainment stack instead of Android Automotive OS
- Audio systems in some trims may feature Harman/Kardon branding or other premium audio branding
- Smartphone integration remains widely supported via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in most regions
Because Honda continues to expand Google Built-In, the lineup of supported features and configurations can differ as new models arrive or regional regulations change.
Hardware and software coordination
Honda coordinates with Google to integrate the Android Automotive OS stack, vehicle sensors and data, and driver-assistance features with its own voice controls and UI. This collaboration aims to deliver a safe, reliable, and seamless user experience that leverages Google’s ecosystem while preserving Honda’s brand identity and vehicle-specific functions.
Summary
Honda's infotainment system today is largely a collaborative product with Google, featuring Google Built-In on Android Automotive OS in many newer models. Honda supplies the vehicle-specific integration, user interface tweaks, and controls, while Google provides the software stack, Maps, Assistant, and related services. Depending on model year and region, some vehicles may still run legacy systems or include Harman/Kardon branding for audio, but the trend is clearly toward a Google-powered, integrated experience across Honda's lineup.
What is the most common problem with Hondas?
Transmission failure is a common problem in Honda cars. Symptoms of this issue may include a problem with acceleration. Poor maintenance, manufacturing defects, and overheating are some of the reasons that contribute to transmission failures.
Which car has the best infotainment system?
The best car infotainment systems are often considered to be BMW's iDrive, Mercedes-Benz's MBUX, and the integrated systems from Hyundai/Kia and Stellantis (Uconnect), according to industry experts and reviewers. These systems are praised for a combination of user-friendliness, features like wireless smartphone integration, and intuitive controls that blend touchscreens with physical buttons or voice commands. The "best" choice ultimately depends on individual priorities, such as a preference for a specific brand, ease of use, or advanced features like voice-activated AI assistants.
Top-rated infotainment systems
- BMW iDrive: Praised for its high-resolution curved display, strong AI voice control, and integration of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offers a good user experience through a combination of a central touchscreen, rotary dial, and voice commands.
- Mercedes-Benz MBUX: Known for its luxurious feel and advanced features, particularly its highly-regarded voice assistant. The system is powerful but can be complex due to its abundance of features.
- Hyundai/Kia's Connected Car Navigation Cockpit: Noted for being effective, quick, and relatively simple to use, with good support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, often wirelessly. Many models include physical buttons for vital controls, which is a plus for users who dislike relying solely on a touchscreen.
- Stellantis' Uconnect: Appreciated for its user-friendly and straightforward operation. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and effectively blends touchscreen controls with physical buttons and knobs, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Other noteworthy systems
- Honda's system: After a significant redesign, Honda's current systems are now considered among the best due to their simple menu design and clear controls.
- Ford's SYNC 4: Offers excellent wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some versions, like SYNC 4A, may experience slower boot-up times.
- Aftermarket systems: Companies like Pioneer and Alpine offer high-quality aftermarket head units that can provide excellent features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced sound processing for both modern and older vehicles.
Does Honda use Bose sound system?
Channel support then we're going to head out on the road and listen to these sample tracks while we're rolling. And I'll give you my thoughts at the end.
What infotainment system does Honda use?
Honda CONNECT. Stay in control on the road and in your life with Honda CONNECT. With its crystal-clear 7" - 15.1” touchscreens, this intuitive infotainment system makes accessing playlists, navigation and vehicle controls effortless.
