Subaru Impreza 2012-2016 GP GJ - Premium Head Unit Upgrade Kit: Radio Infotainment System with Wired & Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility

The Subaru Impreza has consistently captured attention among drivers worldwide, renowned for its blend of practical engineering, enduring performance, and innovative design. Appreciating the nuances and evolutionary development behind the 2012-2016 GP/GJ Impreza series demands stepping back into its origins and mapping out how Subaru arrived at this well-received iteration.

Historical Journey of the Subaru Impreza:

First Generation (GC, GF, GM; 1992–2000):
The inaugural Impreza debuted globally in 1992 as a replacement for the Leone. Subaru introduced it as a capable all-wheel-drive compact sedan and wagon with an optional front-wheel-drive platform initially offered in select markets. Enthusiasm surged following the launch of the performance-focused Impreza WRX series, acclaimed in motorsports for its balance, agility, and potent turbocharged boxer engines. The combination of compact size, practicality, and notable reliability made it globally appealing, immediately carving out a loyal following.

Second Generation (GD, GG; 2000–2007):
The second generation refined and expanded the segments in which the Impreza competed. Subaru embarked on enhancing the chassis rigidity, interior comfort, and safety technology while continuing the WRX and WRX STi performance heritage. The distinctive "Bug-Eye," "Blob-Eye," and later "Hawk-Eye" front-end styles emerged as enthusiast-favored classifications, becoming lasting symbols of Subaru's ability to combine practicality and spirited performance.

Third Generation (GE, GH, GR, GV; 2007–2011):
With an emphasis shifting to greater comfort and contemporary design without sacrificing the integral all-wheel-drive dynamic capability, Subaru repositioned the third generation Impreza toward wider appeal. The introduction of a more upscale interior, refined suspension tuning, and an increased emphasis on safety helped the car find favor not only among dedicated Subaru drivers but also among mainstream consumers seeking a practical, reliable, and safe compact vehicle. The performance-oriented WRX and STi versions maintained their legendary motorsport-inspired credentials, ensuring continued enthusiasm from dedicated performance communities.

Fourth Generation (GP & GJ; 2012–2016):
The fourth generation Impreza (sedan referred to as GJ, hatchback as GP) introduced Subaru's advanced new global-oriented platform, solidifying its stance as both a versatile compact and an economical alternative among segment competitors. Subaru responded effectively to marketplace demands by incorporating improved fuel economy, enhanced refinement, greater interior space, and comprehensive safety improvements—such as greater implementation of Subaru's EyeSight advanced driver-assist system introduced in later years of the generation. Engineered for a wider comfort appeal, the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine provided commendable efficiency, contributing to lower operating costs, smoother driving characteristics, and reduced emissions in response to global market trends.

Diverse markets identified this generation by varying trim naming conventions but maintained similar foundational models. Internationally consistent trim options commonly ranged from practical and affordable base levels ascending through mid-level variants offering additional conveniences, with top versions receiving more indicated "premium," "limited," or "sport" designations depending on the region.

An Infotainment Integration Complementing Subaru's Practical Strengths:

Given Subaru's careful engineering for practical daily usability, the 2012-2016 Impreza generation can still significantly benefit from purposeful modern infotainment enhancements. As digital connectivity increasingly defines driving experiences, drivers seek advanced capabilities—often beyond the period-standard factory audio systems—encouraging aftermarket innovation. An exemplar of this innovation emerges from Brummstadt, an Australian company that provides driver-oriented infotainment solutions integrating smoothly into Subaru’s notably practical and comfortable cabins.

Brummstadt’s premium head unit kit suited to the Subaru Impreza (2012–2016 GP/GJ platform) distinctly addresses contemporary expectations. Drivers receive direct integration for both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Commonly relied-upon navigation applications—such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, or WAZE—gain direct, simplified connectivity access.

Practical scenario visualization highlights advantages clearly: Consider a group dining with friends or family at an unfamiliar location; inputting a friend’s address via a smartphone beforehand conveniently transfers onto the head unit when entering the vehicle, appearing clearly accessible on the screen with minimal distraction or delay. This intuitive interaction significantly diminishes driver tension—creating harmonious, efficient, worry-free travel between destinations.

In keeping with contemporary safety and ownership preferences, the unit notably accommodates upgrade options for combined 1080p High Definition (HD) front and rear cameras, offering increased visibility and recording capability—beneficial for navigating tight urban spaces or providing video recording assurance in unforeseen traffic circumstances.

Entertainment possibilities extend beyond audio entertainment into dynamic scenarios that passengers indulge in through integrated USB ports. Multiplayer gaming via joystick connections to the infotainment display transforms ordinary trips into memorable, engaging occasions; passengers—young or mature—will find interactivity captivating, effectively reducing monotony on lengthy journeys.

Moreover, integrated voice-activated smart assistant functionalities provide intuitive command-based convenience, further extending practicality. Simple voice commands to Apple’s Siri or Android Auto’s Google Assistant handle tasks like navigating efficiently, managing calls hands-free, adjusting playlists, or even remotely interacting with smart home devices—such as activating home lighting—prior to arrival, offering reassurance and convenience at the concluding stages of each journey.

Benefits and Driving Experience of Subaru Impreza GP/GJ Series:

The 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza GP/GJ series is well-regarded primarily due to balanced attributes of proven reliability, intelligent design engineering, and thoughtful efficiency gains. Its spacious yet compact footprint meets practical daily commuting or longer travel preferences effectively. The standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides tangible traction advantages across diverse road conditions while imparting a reassuring driving demeanour, granting secure, confident travel on winding rural roads or inclement weather conditions alike.

Comfort features received notable attention this generation; improved cabin materials, ergonomics, and reduced NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) enriched driving satisfaction. The result is a compact vehicle user genuinely appreciate daily, both practically and through enjoyment of intuitive technology applications, safety systems, and responsive control.

Introducing thoughtful infotainment modernisations such as those provided by Brummstadt profoundly expands vehicle versatility, particularly through enhanced navigation safety and modern connectivity convenience. Such improvement considerably increases driver and passenger satisfaction on varied journeys, from routine commutes through leisurely trips with family or friends. By aligning advanced infotainment convenience techniques, owners clearly maximise the overall positive Impreza ownership experience.

Reflecting Subaru's steadfast tradition while thoughtfully introducing valued modern infotainment convenience, the Subaru Impreza 2012–2016 GP/GJ remains noteworthy as a comprehensively equipped compact sedan and hatchback. The carefully integrated technology updates offered through aftermarket solutions such as Brummstadt thoughtfully amplify the innate practicality, balanced performance, and purposeful comfort character inherent in these generations—cementing its position as an engaging, dependable companion ideally suited to contemporary driving expectations.