Subaru Forester and Impreza Android head units – what you need to know
The third generation Subaru Forester was built on the floorpan of the third generation Impreza, and the centre section of the dashboard is shared between the two models too – which is why the same 9-inch Android head unit kit fits both, in the 2007–2013 model years. The unit goes in place of the original radio with a model-specific frame and a plug-in wiring loom, so nothing has to be cut or soldered and the installation can be reversed at any time. The specification includes an eight-core processor, an HD touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, GPS navigation with Waze and Google Maps support, Bluetooth hands-free calling, a reversing camera input and a multi-language menu; the factory steering wheel controls keep working after the learning procedure. On Subarus there are two things worth thinking through separately. One is the generation: this kit does not fit the SG-coded Forester built between 2002 and 2008, because its dashboard is entirely different – if you are unsure, send us a photo of the area around the radio and we will write back to say which car you have. The other is the reversing camera: because of the Forester's tall, steep tailgate the view through the rear screen directly behind the bumper is very poor, so on this body a camera is not a luxury but a genuine safety accessory – the head unit's camera input is ready for it. It is worth knowing that the Subaru XV is also based on the Impreza, so this kit most likely fits it too, but here again a photo of the dashboard decides before ordering. Every head unit we sell carries a 2-year warranty, and items in stock are posted within one working day.
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Why does the same unit fit the Forester and the Impreza?
Because the third generation Forester was built on the Impreza 3 floorpan, and the centre section of the dashboard, including the radio aperture, is shared between the two models. So the same frame and wiring loom belong in both.
Does it also suit the older SG Forester?
No. The dashboard of the SG Forester built between 2002 and 2008 is different and this kit does not fit it. If you are not sure which generation you have, send us a photo of the area around the radio.
Does it fit the Subaru XV?
The XV is also based on the Impreza, so most likely yes, but for a definite answer please send us a photo of the centre section of the dashboard. That avoids a pointless return.
Is it worth ordering a reversing camera with it?
Because of the Forester's tall, steep tailgate the area behind the bumper is effectively invisible in the mirror, so on this body a camera is a genuine safety accessory. The head unit's camera input is ready for it; the camera can be ordered separately.
Are the factory functions retained?
The steering wheel buttons keep working after the learning procedure, and the factory speakers and aerial can be used unchanged. Every head unit carries a 2-year warranty.
