Kenwood Releases Six New Multimedia / Navigation Products For 2010

Kenwood USA announced the introduction of six newly-engineered in-car multimedia systems, many with built-in navigation technology by Garmin and the latest in audio and video performance features.

Kenwood introduces a new premium double-DIN multimedia / navigation receiver, the DNX7160 ($1,700.00 suggested retail price). Advanced navigation technology by Garmin is built into the DNX7160 and includes new features such as Lane Assist with Junction View that reduce highway interchange confusion and improve driving safety. The DNX7160 also includes built-in NAVTEQ Live Traffic service that is free for the life of the product. For maximizing fuel efficiency while driving, the DNX7160 offers the Garmin-developed EcoRoute™ feature that measures the impact of your driving habits on the environment and suggests routes that will provide the most efficient fuel consumption.

Kenwood DNX7160

The DNX7160 has an advanced graphic user interface (GUI), displayed on a bright WVGA 6.95” touchscreen with Dynamic Brightness Control that faithfully reproduces the highest quality DVD video, iPod video, USB video, navigation maps and source icons. The latest Parrot Bluetooth module is built into the DNX7160 and will even allow for wireless streaming of music content when paired with a compatible cell phone or portable music device.

The double-DIN DNX6160 ($1,200.00 suggested retail price) has a 6.1” WVGA touchscreen panel, intuitive user interface and great Kenwood quality. A compact front-panel knob is included to easily control volume, while a front-panel mini A/V input allows for convenient connection of a portable device such as a digital camera or camcorder. The user has complete touchscreen control over multiple audio and video sources, including DVD, MP3/WMA compact disc, iPod, iPod Touch, iPhone, external mass storage devices, satellite radio and HD Radio (optional iPod, HD Radio or satellite radio accessories may be required). Customization is easy, and the user can match the faceplate lighting of the DNX6160 to the interior lighting of most vehicles, while the background and startup screen graphics can be changed to show personal photos or the brand logo of the vehicle. With the latest in Garmin navigation and Parrot Bluetooth built right into the unit, the DNX6160 offers the latest in technologies at an attractive price. For users wishing to add Bluetooth at a later time, the DNX5160 DVD receiver ($1,150.00 suggested retail price) has the same feature set as the DNX6160 but without built-in Bluetooth and would be the right choice.

The new double-DIN DDX616 ($750.00 suggested retail price) carries many of the advanced features, minus built- in Navigation, as the DNX6160 including the 6.1” WVGA touchscreen panel, external media control, personal customization and built-in Bluetooth. The optional KNA-G610 ($600.00 suggested retail price) is a hideaway module for those customers who wish to add Garmin navigation to the DDX616 at a later time.

Kenwood’s entry-level double-DIN DVD receiver is the DDX516 ($700.00 suggested retail price). In addition to adding Garmin navigation at a later time through the use of the KNA-G610, users can add Bluetooth later via the KCA-BT300 hideaway module ($180.00 suggested retail price).

For single-DIN DVD receiver applications, Kenwood introduces the KVT-516 ($850.00 suggested retail price). The KVT-516 is equipped with a retractable 7” WQVGA touchscreen monitor and Z-Action mechanism for exceptional reliability. Users can play their favorite audio or video content from their iPod, iPod Touch or iPhone and control the device through the touchscreen panel on the KVT-516. Garmin navigation can be added at a later time through the use of the KNA-G610, and the KVT-516 can be upgraded to Bluetooth later via the KCA-BT300.

The DNX7160, DNX6160, DNX5160, DDX616, DDX516 and KVT-516 come with a one year limited warranty and are available only through authorized Kenwood retailers.