IPOD in center armrest

[cartmell]

I have just order my GTI today and one of the options that I wanted was IPOD prep in the center armrest.  The dealer did not know much about it.  This is an optionin the EU but not yet here.  Has anybody got any info an when the UK will be getting the option.  I ask for the multichanger in arm rest just in case IPOD was a no goer.

[lowdown]

My dealer says the equipment isn't available yet, but is coming soon.  This thread from another forum shows the part
http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57
and this guy has one.
http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=175

I get my new GTi delivered in April and with a bit of luck this item will be available in the UK by then.  I chose the RCD 500 (in dash 6cd), thinking it would leave the centre armrest empty ready for iPod, but actually I think there will be room for both ipod and 6 cd.  Putting the iPod in the glovebox will be another option.

A non factory item:
http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/product_info.php?products_id=4653

In terms of 'integration' I believe you get same as the BMW setup:  CDs 1-5 are for playlists CD6 is for the entire IPod. You can move around the tracks by using the HU contol as if you were navigating a CD.

Presumably you can do it from the iPod too?

[VWmaindealer]

We have just launched an ipod adapter. It's not a cradle sadly, just a plug in the glovebox. You can plug your ipod in here and play tracks through your RCD headunit. Currently available for all Volkswagens with an RCD headunit. Price currently will vary from dealer to dealer but we are 175 quid to give you an idea. It's more than most other connectors but remember, because your dealer fits it, it will not invalidate your warranty. Also, any dealer fitted accesory fitted to a new car before it's delivered will carry a three year warranty, not the usual 12 months.

In the next two weeks, Volkswagen dealers are standardising their accessory labour rates so expect every dealer to charge the same price for accessories. I expect these ipod adapters to be 169 quid.

[cartmell]

does this allow me to use the autochanger aswell??

[VWmaindealer]

I think it does. It plugs in to the aux socket on the back of the head unit as far as I'm aware.  I think the loom would just daisychain to enable changer useage as well. I'll try and find out a definitive answer tho....

[mrv]

We have just launched an ipod adapter. It's not a cradle sadly, just a plug in the glovebox. You can plug your ipod in here and play tracks through your RCD headunit. Currently available for all Volkswagens with an RCD headunit. Price currently will vary from dealer to dealer but we are 175 quid to give you an idea. It's more than most other connectors but remember, because your dealer fits it, it will not invalidate your warranty. Also, any dealer fitted accesory fitted to a new car before it's delivered will carry a three year warranty, not the usual 12 months.

In the next two weeks, Volkswagen dealers are standardising their accessory labour rates so expect every dealer to charge the same price for accessories. I expect these ipod adapters to be 169 quid.

Do you know if you can use the multi function steering wheel or the head unit to change tracks etc with this cable? or do you have to use the ipod itself??

[VWmaindealer]

Er, good question. I'm pretty sure you change tracks using the headunit, therefore the MFSW should also operate it. I'll check for you tomorrow. I would guess yes, but will check

[mrv]

It would be great to know as i have one ordered to be fitted in the small sliding compartment next to the handbrake. Unfortunately my dealer can't give me very much information on how it is operated. Do you know if it is the same component as the Denison Ice Link?

[VWmaindealer]

I don't know what the Denison link is i'm afraid.

The ipod adapter is just a plug that plugs into your ipod( i'm good!). There is a lot more wiring that goes on behind the scenes though. I'll try and find out tomorrow, I haven't been at work the last few days.

BTW, VW now have their accessories department sorted out. Visit www.volkswagenaccessories.co.uk