Kenwood DDX918 Released!
 

http://www.kenwood.com/au/car/visual...duct_large.png

New version of the DDX WS series has been released. Lots of updates for 2018, including an updated interface with faster processor, a higher quality DSP (my past life as a Car Audio diehard/current life as an AV Systems Design/Engineering Consultant have me drooling here), support for 360 degree cameras, and probably most importantly, a 720p screen with higher brightness and better viewing angles.

More info here: http://www.kenwood.com/au/car/visual...tion/ddx918ws/

This may have pushed me over the edge to replace the outdated Fujitsu Ten unit in my Canadian 2017!

That looks great, but I wish they sold a LHD/US version.

That makes two of us. They did make a LHD version 2 generations ago with the DDX916WSL, but it was only sold in the Latin American market and is IMPOSSIBLE to find (I’ve tried).

I don't see the need for the left-hand drive screen, myself. I have the DDX917WS. Touching controls on the right is not a problem at all: they are barely farther than the shift knob. And frankly, with steering controls, I never use those buttons anyway. Plus, Apple Carplay allows you to relocate its source icons to the left if you choose.

@willimusk that's a good point about being able to swap the sides.

Kenwood DDX918 Released!
 

Additionally, I’ve just noticed the DMX718WBT has been released which doesn’t include CarPlay/Android Auto, however it does have native control of Wase and Spotify (what I use primarily in my vehicle from my phone). It will be at a lower price point.

This is tempting.

hmmmmmm.. my GF wants my pioneer unit in her car b/c she likes that the resistive screen on it works with her nails.. maybe its time to upgrade...

I have the DDX917WS and can confirm it is awesome, and if you have steering wheel controls the touch buttons on the "wrong side" are no issue. I use steering wheel and voice commands to control everything with android auto, rarely touch the screen.

This will be way more enjoyable than your stock unit... it brings the stock speakers to life and I think it sounds way better.

+1

What's the best way to get one of these imported?

I'm guessing they will probably be available on eBay shortly. DDX917WS is.

I'd like to go this route too.

Can a functioning novice install it without too much trouble?

Does it include all (the useful) features of the original infotainment system? I have a 2017 limited. From the description it looks like it has everything plus some more.

How about the harness. Will it require an additional purchase? Does it fit behind the original bevel so it looks like it was made to fit or will I need spacers?

Is the main feature over the DDX917WS a faster interface? Looks like it has more camera inputs too.

Have I used up my allotment of questions, or can I ask more?:thumbup:

Bill

No Wireless Android Auto? Kind of a bummer. Alpine and BMW already have wireless CarPlay tech, what's the hold up on wireless Android Auto?

The 917ws has wireless Air Mirroring for Android Auto, with on-screen app control, so I'd be surprised if the 918ws does not. I've never used it, though.

For CarPlay, unfortunately, mirroring is only one way, with no on-screen app control in the 917ws. Don't know about the 18.

There is a patch available to enable wireless mirroring on iphone.
CarbonCarSystem
I applied this to mine and it works.