10 Best Kenwood Car Radios 2025 in the United States

The KENWOOD eXcelon Reference DMX1057XR is a feature-rich car stereo system designed to enhance the in-car multimedia experience. Its standout feature is the 10.1” HD floating touchscreen display, which offers high contrast and vivid colors, making it easy to use and visually appealing. The capacitive touch panel is responsive, providing a smooth interaction with the interface. For connectivity, this model supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration with smartphones. This compatibility allows for hands-free control over navigation, phone calls, messages, and music streaming, contributing to safer driving.

Audio quality is another strength, with Hi-Res Audio support that includes various file formats like FLAC and WAV, promising clear and detailed sound. The stereo is also SiriusXM ready, offering access to a wide range of satellite radio channels. Expandability is well-covered, featuring four camera inputs that enhance safety by supporting various camera configurations, including front, rear, and side cameras. The iDatalink Maestro RR integration allows for retaining factory features and adding advanced functionalities like parking sensor display.

The system’s complexity might be overwhelming for users not familiar with car electronics, and its relatively high price point may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the installation could be challenging, potentially requiring professional assistance. Despite these considerations, the DMX1057XR is an excellent choice for those looking for a comprehensive and high-quality car multimedia system.

The Kenwood KMR-M332BT is a solid choice for anyone looking for a durable and versatile single-DIN car stereo, especially if you spend time in tough environments like near saltwater or outdoors. Its display is designed with high contrast black characters on a white background, making it easy to read from bright sunlight to darkness. While it doesn’t have built-in navigation, it offers strong Bluetooth connectivity to control apps and stream music hands-free via your smartphone.

Audio quality is a highlight here, with support for various music formats including FLAC, plus customizable equalizer settings and digital time alignment to fine-tune sound to your liking. It also includes a front USB port and aux input, making it easy to connect external devices, and has 2-channel preamp outputs for adding external amplifiers or subwoofers, giving room for upgrades. The stereo is weatherproof with a conformal-coated circuit board, which helps prevent damage from moisture and salt spray, making it a great fit for marine or rugged outdoor use. The multi-color illumination adds a nice touch for personalization.

On the downside, the user interface is relatively simple and may lack the advanced touchscreen features found on more expensive models. Also, while it is SiriusXM ready, the radio itself doesn’t come with built-in satellite radio, so a subscription and receiver are needed for that service. For those seeking a reliable, weather-resistant stereo with excellent audio customization and basic smartphone control, the Kenwood KMR-M332BT effectively meets those needs.