Volkswagen announces availability of Android Auto in most 2016 models

Volkswagen fans who are looking for a new vehicle with Android Auto built-in will have a lot of options soon.

Along with the smartphone integration, Volkswagen says its MIB II platform has higher-resolution screens, faster processing speeds, and better graphics than MIB I, which debuted in 2015 Volkswagen Golf models.

According to a statement by Michael Horn, president and CEO at Volkswagen of America, “With the new MIB II infotainment platform, Volkswagen’s next generation of Car-Net connected services brings to market one of the most comprehensive suites of connectivity features ever available in an automobile.”

Why this matters: Volkswagen’s letting you have it your way when it comes to connecting your phone to your auto, covering all the major platforms. “Discover Pro” is the top-of-the-line unit that is exclusively available on e-Golf SEL Premium Model. Android Auto offers similar functionality, letting Android smartphone users make and receive calls, listen to incoming messages and respond, get directions with Google Maps, stream music from their phone – all through existing vehicle controls, the touch screen, and voice actions. The German-based vehicle maker announced the services are part of the new infotainment platform.

Entry-level VW models will feature a Composition Color touchscreen radio with a 5.0-inch resistive 400 x 240 color display and AUX-in, SD card slots, and a USB multimedia interface with Apple iPhone and iPod compatibility, reverse camera display, and Bluetooth technology. VW first announced CarPlay and Android Auto support at CES in January.

The system is not all about supporting CarPlay and rival systems, but also includes added security, navigational aids, media controls and so much more, details of which can be found here. Units can have anywhere between 5-inch and 8-inch touch displays.