I just purchased a x3. I should be getting it in a few days!

I'm interested in getting a navigation system for it but would like to find an option that will provide a clean install. Ideally I would still be able to use the steering wheel controls and not have to replace the stock cd player, etc... and still be able to use the "ipod" upgrade when its available.

I'm particularly interested in the Pioneer AVIC-N1 or the Alpine NVE-N852A. I have the Alpine system in another car and am familiar with it, but I'm very interested in the Pioneer. Basically I'd like to now which system will integrate cleanly with the X3 dash.

Thanks!

Jeff

What do you mean by a clean install? My experiences with installing Navi's and aftermarket head units (a bit of experience, not a lot) on BMW's tell me that this will never be a completely clean install. Stock BMW head units tend to be longer than most car manufacturer head units on the market. You will have to fill the gap left behind after removing the BMW head unit. You may not have to replace the stock CD player, but it may be a pain in the behind to get to once the Navi is installed. If the CD player is located above the head unit (like it is in the X5), it'll make it a pain in the arse to get to once the Navi screen is up. I believe I helped my friend put the exact same Alpine unit into his 3 series and we could not get the steering wheel controls to work for the life of us.

I may be wrong on all this though, good luck on your quest.

Hmm, I just saw the dash on the X3. I'm not sure a clean install will be possible. I'm not a pro at this so I don't know for sure. But like I said before, the head unit on this BMW is longer than most head units. Also, I assumed the CD player was a seperate from the head unit like it is on the X5. But that's not the case. When you take out the head unit, you'll lose your CD player as well. Looks like you'll need to either install a CD or DVD changer somewhere. Like I said, I may be wrong though. Good luck!

I have to ask...why didn't you get the factory NAV?