Lexus RC/IS 200/250/300/350 2013-2017 - Premium Head Unit Upgrade Kit: Radio Infotainment System with Wired & Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility

The Lexus RC and IS series occupy prominent positions amongst luxury sports sedans and coupes, recognized for precision engineering, well-crafted interiors, and effortless blending of comfort with dynamic driving characteristics. To appreciate the evolution and distinct identity of the Lexus RC and IS lineup—particularly the 2013-2017 models—it is essential to first explore the intertwined histories of these two distinguished vehicles, tracing their lineage through multiple generations.

Historical Journey of Lexus IS Series:

First Generation Lexus IS (XE10; 1998-2005):
The original Lexus IS, sold as the Toyota Altezza in Japan, instantly became iconic upon its 1998 unveiling. Celebrated enthusiastically for its sport-tuned handling, balanced chassis, and unmistakable round taillights known among enthusiasts as "Altezza lights," this first iteration introduced Japanese reliability with European sports saloon character. Engine choices were spirited, notably including an inline-six variant providing smooth power delivery ideally matched for spirited driving experiences.

Second Generation Lexus IS (XE20; 2005-2013):
2005 saw significant advancement with the second-generation IS, presenting greater sophistication, enhanced safety features, and superior comfort. Moving upmarket, it adopted sharper styling and technologically advanced equipment such as SmartAccess keyless entry and luxury interior finishes. The IS 250 and IS 350, powered by capable V6 engines, received widespread praise for excellent refinement combined seamlessly with enthusiastic driving dynamics, establishing global prestige within the compact luxury segment.

Third Generation Lexus IS (XE30; 2013-2020):
Revealed in 2013, the third-generation Lexus IS represented meaningful evolution, blending bold exterior design, enriched interiors, sophisticated suspension tuning, and integration of Lexus' revered spindle grille signature. Models such as the IS 200t (later renamed IS 300), with an efficient turbocharged four-cylinder, and IS 250/IS 350, offering naturally aspirated V6 engines, perfectly balanced spirited performance with the smooth, elegant driving Lexus enthusiasts welcomed. This generation strongly reinforced Lexus's commitment to luxury refinement paired confidently with performance aspirations.

Introducing the Lexus RC Series (XC10; from 2014):
2014 marked a new chapter for Lexus, debuting the striking RC coupe derived from the existing IS sedan platform architecture. The Lexus RC series, consisting of the RC 200t (later RC 300), RC 300 AWD, and RC 350, reflected thoughtful combination of dynamic coupe form and luxurious GT-style driving characteristics. With sculpted aesthetics, elongated proportions, and agile handling dynamics underlined by compelling performance of its turbocharged inline-four or muscular V6 engine lineup, the RC series represented Lexus’s dedication to a distinctive luxury-sport coupe market segment.

Distinctive Qualities and Advantages of Lexus IS and RC (2013-2017):

Design and Build:
The Lexus IS and RC models of this generation showcased dramatic exterior styling highlighted by aggressive spindle grille designs, intricate LED lighting signatures, athletic sculpting, and a poised stance that conveyed both dynamism and refinement. Premium interior craftsmanship, ergonomic controls, heated and ventilated comfort seating options, and luxurious soft-touch materials defined these vehicles as welcoming spaces of luxury.

Driving Experience and Performance:
Acclaimed for responsive handling, precise steering, smooth ride comfort, and balanced stability, these Lexus models delivered engaging driving experiences. Engine choices filled varied preferences—turbocharged efficiency for the IS 200t/RC 200t models, or vigorous naturally aspirated power in IS/RC 250 and 350 variants, frequently celebrated for reliable power delivery, smooth-shifting transmissions, and desirable rear-wheel-drive bias reflecting genuine sports sedan and coupe character.

Technological Features and Innovation:
Original infotainment across these models featured Lexus’s proprietary Remote Touch interface—a functional, albeit nuanced concept that benefited greatly from subsequent advancements. High-end audio options, navigation features, and multi-zone automatic climate control ensured driving pleasure seamlessly combined technology with comfort.

Enhancing Lexus IS and RC Ownership with Infotainment Advancements:

To fully modernize the integrated multimedia and elevate driver experience, owners may pursue advanced aftermarket options carefully tailored to complement original cabin aesthetics, such as those provided by Brummstadt’s suitable head unit specifically designed for Lexus IS and RC models (2013-2017). This improvement significantly broadens infotainment features, notably adding support for both wired and wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Such intelligent connectivity upgrades modernize original infotainment considerably, allowing fluid access to user-preferred navigation sources, including Google Maps, Apple Maps, and widely utilized WAZE applications. Imagine an enjoyable evening dining with friends—destination details to a subsequent gathering simply entered into a smartphone transfer automatically and clearly onto the head unit's large display through wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, subsequently offering intuitive route guidance immediately as the driver re-enters the vehicle, seamlessly uniting convenience, safety, and clarity.

Optional additions enhance the driving experience significantly, including 1080p HD front and rear camera solutions with recording capabilities, empowering improved awareness and safety, capturing essential video data of travel journeys, and safeguarding drivers with valuable recordings.

Functionality reaches beyond conventional multimedia. Gaming opportunities onboard allow passengers to connect joysticks via dedicated USB connectivity, opening exciting opportunities for enjoyable multiplayer interactions during longer drives, enriching travel experiences for families and passengers alike. Smart-voice control integration further elevates convenience, providing hassle-free voice-command control of crucial infotainment commands, communication tasks, and even linking to users' smart-home devices. Simple commands like, "Hey Siri! Turn on the porch lighting," initiate familiar voice-assistant procedures effortlessly, enhancing practical simplicity and seamlessly blending automotive and home convenience.

Overall Ownership and Driver Satisfaction Benefits:

The Lexus IS and RC range comfortably stand among highly desirable choices for those valuing luxurious environments carefully melded with precise driving capabilities. The substantial benefits—responsive powertrain efficiency, refined interior trimming, handling balance, and prestigious appeal—collectively signify rewarding ownership.

Investment in considered infotainment solutions integrates modern technology thoughtfully into these luxury models' inherent sophistication, seamlessly complementing vehicle style and attractiveness. These targeted vehicle enhancements amplify satisfaction specifically by fostering thoughtful connectivity, ensuring higher practical functionality, personal enjoyment, and elevated convenience and safety through modern multimedia integrations and intelligent interactive features.

Exemplifying refined performance, dedicated engineering philosophy, and thoughtful technological adaptability, the Lexus IS and RC series from 2013-2017 firmly represent sophisticated, dynamic automobiles inviting driver pride, satisfaction, and lasting attachment.