7-inch screen with fitted dash bezel represents a new Alpine Restyle format for the Wrangler
Torrance, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2017) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the i207-WRA, a mech-less audio/video (A/V) system with 7-inch touch screen for 2007-2017 Jeep Wranglers. It’s the first 7-inch Alpine Restyle aftermarket system to come with a dash bezel fitted for the Wrangler.
“Alpine has established the 9-inch Alpine Restyle system as the most integrated and stylish way to upgrade the dash of a Wrangler,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “The i207-WRA continues the Alpine Restyle lineup at a convenient 7-inch screen size that’s compatible with Wranglers as far back as 2007.”
Everything Needed in the Box
The i207-WRA is an all-in-one Wrangler in-dash solution that comes with everything needed for installation, including some parts designed specifically for the needs of the Wrangler owner. A metal rear bracket is included to hold the unit stable during rocky trail rides. A loaded wire harness allows for plug-and-play installation to the Wrangler, while additional harnesses are supplied for optional add-ons like the KAC-001 External Accessory Control Module and KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Selector.
The i207-WRA comes with an iDatalink Maestro® module to retain select Wrangler controls like the voice activated media player, voice activated Bluetooth® wireless technology, steering wheel controls, premium audio amplifier integration and visual parking assistance. Select vehicle information like tire pressure, battery voltage, door status, engine codes and user customizable gauges can also be displayed on the screen (retained features and vehicle information will vary by model year).
User Interface and Smartphone Connectivity
The 7-inch WVGA capacitive touch screen is surrounded by a dash bezel that is fitted for the Wrangler, creating a factory-like look for the system. It has a 4-way swipe action user interface (left, right, up or down) for quick access to commonly used features.
The system is optimized for wired connectivity with an iPhone or Android™ smartphone. The i207-WRA “Works with Apple CarPlay,” so iPhone owners can use Apple CarPlay™ to make and receive calls, access text messages, play music, and get directions optimized for traffic conditions in a way that allows them to stay focused on the road. CarPlay features are accessed through the i207-WRA’s touch screen or through Siri voice control using the “Voice” button. CarPlay is compatible with iPhone 5 and later.
The i207-WRA is also Android Auto™ Compatible. Android Auto was designed with safety in mind. With larger touch targets, a simplified interface, and easy-to-use voice actions, it's designed to minimize distraction so drivers can stay focused on the road (requires both a USB cable and Bluetooth connection; requires an Android™ phone running 5.0 [Lollipop] or higher and the Android Auto app). Android Auto is accessed through the touch screen or through voice control using the “Voice” button.
The i207-WRA does not have a built-in navigation system but users can get navigation guidance from maps on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with driving directions are displayed on the 7-inch screen. The i207-WRA has hard keys for direct access to smartphone functions like navigation, “Now Playing,” and voice control. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also provide access to popular apps such as Spotify, Waze (via Android Auto only), Amazon Music, and more.
Entertainment Features
The i207-WRA has Bluetooth® wireless technology for calls and audio streaming. Audio sources include AM/FM, a built-in HD Radio™ receiver, Pandora control from a smartphone, and FLAC file playback via USB. The i207-WRA is SiriusXM-Ready™ (tuner and subscription sold separately) and customized sound tuning is available through the free Alpine TuneIt® App. An HDMI input is available for video entertainment (HDMI cable sold separately), and DVD or CD playback can be added through the DVE-5300 Add-on DVD Player (sold separately). If the i207-WRA is connected to the DVE-5300, HDMI capability can be retained through the KCX-630HD HDMI Selector Interface (sold separately).
System Expansion
Wranglers are often customized with accessories like a motorized tonneau cover and winch, but these accessories frequently require control switches to be installed on the dash. The KAC-001 External Accessory Control Module (sold separately) turns the i207-WRA into a hub for touch screen control of up to eight add-on electrical accessories, eliminating the need for switches on the dash. The i207-WRA comes with one camera input that can be assigned for a front or rear camera. If the Wrangler has two or three camera systems, the KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Selector allows them to be centrally controlled from the i207-WRA’s 7-inch touchscreen (KCX-C250MC and cameras sold separately).
The i207-WRA is now available for $1,200 SRI at authorized Alpine retailers, visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.
