IDoing is the Best Head Unit for the 2015-2021 WRX & STI
If you own a 2015-2021 Subaru WRX or 2015-2021 Subaru STI, you know the drill: Subaru absolutely nailed the driving dynamics, the chassis balance, and that raw performance feel. But the second you reach for the volume knob or try to pull up a map, the illusion of a "modern" performance car kind of breaks.
The factory head unit works, sure, but it feels like a relic from a decade ago. Itās laggy, the screen is small, and the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto means youāre stuck using clunky phone mounts that clutter up your beautiful interior.
Thatās exactly why the IDoing head unit has become the go-to "day one" upgrade for this platform. Itās not just a screen, but it's the tech upgrade every WRX or STI should have had from the factory.
Why WRX and STI Owners Upgrade to IDoing
Most 2015-2021 WRX and STI owners quickly reach the same conclusion. The car is strong everywhere except the infotainment system. The factory radio lacks modern smartphone integration, has limited responsiveness, and does not deliver the kind of audio clarity most drivers expect in a performance car.
The IDoing head unit solves that in a way that feels seamless. It integrates directly into the factory interior while upgrading nearly every part of the user experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto bring full phone integration into the dash, allowing navigation, messaging, music, and apps to be used without relying on mounts or cables.
On top of that, the system opens up access to thousands of apps through its Android based platform. That means navigation tools, streaming apps, music services, games, and even light entertainment options can all run directly through the head unit itself.
For a relatively affordable price point compared to other infotainment upgrades, it delivers a level of functionality that completely modernizes the car interior.
What the Factory Head Unit Lacks on the 2015-2021 WRX & STI Platform
The factory Subaru head unit is one of the most commonly criticized parts of the Subaru platform, and for good reason. While it integrates with vehicle functions and gets the job done, it falls behind in almost every modern category.
The most obvious limitation is the lack of proper Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support on many trims. This alone forces drivers into using outdated Bluetooth audio and phone mounts, which immediately clutters the interior and takes away from the driving experience.
The display itself also feels small and outdated compared to modern standards. Touch response is slow, menus are dated, and the overall interface does not feel like it belongs in a performance focused vehicle built in the modern era.
Audio performance is another weak point. Even with upgraded speakers, the factory head unit struggles to deliver clean output. Volume levels lack depth, and the built in processing limits how much potential the factory or aftermarket audio system can actually reach.
The IDoing unit addresses these weaknesses directly by combining modern software, stronger internal processing, and improved audio output in a single integrated system.
Key Benefits of the IDoing Head Unit Upgrade
One of the biggest advantages of the IDoing system is how complete it feels as an upgrade. It is not just a screen replacement, it is a full infotainment system designed specifically for the 2015-2021 WRX and STI platform.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, giving instant access to navigation, calls, messages, and media. The system also supports wired connections for users who prefer a direct link.
The 9 inch HD touchscreen completely transforms the interior layout. Navigation becomes easier to view, apps are more usable, and the entire dash feels more modern and cohesive.
The system also retains factory functionality including steering wheel controls and backup camera integration. This keeps the driving experience familiar while still upgrading the technology significantly.
Another major benefit is the built in flexibility. The system supports additional features like GPS antennas, SIM card internet connectivity, external microphones, and aftermarket audio upgrades without requiring complex rewiring or custom wiring.
Audio Quality ImprovementsĀ
One of the most noticeable changes after installing the IDoing head unit is the improvement in sound quality.
The factory system limits how clean and powerful the audio can sound, even with upgraded speakers. The IDoing unit improves this through better internal processing and more refined audio output control.
Music becomes clearer, bass response feels more controlled, and overall volume can be pushed further without distortion. This difference is especially noticeable for owners running aftermarket speakers, amplifiers, or subwoofers, where the factory head unit often becomes the limiting factor.
The built in equalizer settings also allow more detailed tuning, giving drivers the ability to shape their audio experience based on personal preference instead of being locked into factory presets.
Available IDoing Versions
The IDoing head unit comes in a few different configurations depending on performance needs and display preference.
The standard configuration includes 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. This version is ideal for most users and delivers smooth performance for everyday use including navigation, streaming, and app usage. It remains the most popular option due to its balance of price and functionality.
The upgraded 8GB version increases system memory and processing speed. This results in faster multitasking, smoother app transitions, and improved overall responsiveness. It is ideal for users who want a more premium experience or plan to use more demanding apps.
The highest tier option includes the 8GB configuration paired with the 2K resolution display. This provides the sharpest visual experience with improved clarity for maps, video playback, and general interface use. It is the most premium looking option and gives the interior a noticeably higher end feel.
Regardless of which version is selected, all units maintain core plug and play functionality and are compatible with 2015 to 2021 WRX and STI models.
What Factory Features Are Retained?
One of the most important parts of any head unit upgrade is maintaining factory integration, and the IDoing system does this well.
Steering wheel controls remain fully functional, allowing volume, track changes, and call controls to operate exactly as before. The factory backup camera is also retained and can be displayed directly on the new touchscreen for a cleaner viewing experience.
On models equipped with upgraded Harman Kardon Speaker systems, the IDoing unit is designed to integrate using the included CANBUS decoder to maintain communication with factory electronics.
This ensures that the upgrade enhances the vehicle without removing the convenience features drivers are already used to.
Installation OverviewĀ
Installation is designed to be straightforward and achievable for most owners with basic tools and patience.
The process involves removing the factory trim, disconnecting the factory radio, transferring necessary components such as AC controls and vents, and connecting the plug and play harness included with the IDoing kit.
Once installed, the unit fits directly into the factory dash opening with no cutting or permanent modification required. All wiring is designed to match factory connections, making the process significantly simpler than traditional aftermarket radio installations.
Can you install the IDoing head unit yourself?
Yes, and this is one of the biggest reasons it has become so popular among Subaru owners.
The system is designed specifically for the 2015-2021 WRX or STI, meaning everything is built around factory mounting points and wiring connections. With basic hand tools, the installation can typically be completed at home without professional help.
Support materials and installation guides are widely available, and most owners find the process manageable even if it is their first time installing a head unit.
Final Thoughts
The IDoing head unit has become one of the most effective interior upgrades for the Subaru platform because it solves a very real weakness in an otherwise strong platform.
It modernizes the interior, improves daily usability, enhances audio performance, and adds full smartphone integration without sacrificing factory functionality. Combined with plug and play installation and strong overall value, it delivers one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make to the driving experience.
For owners still running the factory infotainment system, this is one of those upgrades that immediately changes how the car feels every time you get in it. So why wait to upgrade? Grab the IDoing head unit for your 2015-2021 WRX or STI today.