In recent years, numerous interfaces have appeared promising to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to Opel and GM vehicles that didn't come with them from the factory. However, not all of them work the same, not all respect the original functionality, and not all offer a stable experience. At Blitz Motorworks, we've tested, installed, and analyzed the main options on the market to offer a real comparison, based on technical performance and not advertising.
In this article, we analyze four well-known solutions: NavTool 6.0 , GROM VLine2 , Azton Interface , and OpelLink Touch . All of them work wirelessly, but each has its advantages and disadvantages, which we clearly break down to help you choose the one that truly suits your Opel or GM vehicle.
| Interface | Original microphone | It works without a touchscreen. | Radio panel buttons | Steering wheel buttons | Play video | Audio Type | Auto ON contact | Auto camera R | Start- up time | Price | Product website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NavTool 6.0 | Yes , it uses an OEM microphone | No , it requires an OEM touchscreen . | No , the buttons are not working. | Yes , but limited ( voice dialing does n't work ) | Yes , via HDMI and USB | AUX (analog audio) | No , manual intervention is required to switch to the interface | No , it requires the installation of an additional cable . reverse signal | Quick start | $ 599 USD (~€550–570 ) | Navtool |
| GROM VLine2 | Yes , it uses an OEM microphone | No , it requires an OEM touchscreen . | Yes , but they don't work in the correct order . | Yes , complete | Yes , via internal apps . HDMI and USB | USB (digital audio) | Yes , it switches automatically on startup | Yes , it maintains automatic rear camera switching | Start slow | 679 USD (~630–650 €) | Grom VLine2 |
| Azton Interface | No , it requires an external microphone (included). | No , it requires an OEM touchscreen . | No , the buttons are not working. | No , the buttons are not working. | No , although it includes a non -functional HDMI port . | AUX (analog audio) | No , manual intervention is required to switch to the interface | No , but it requires the installation of an additional cable . reverse signal | Medium start | 320 USD (~295–305 €) | Azton |
| OpelLink Touch | Yes , it uses an OEM microphone | Yes , it can be used without an OEM touchscreen | Yes , it keeps the radio panel buttons functional . | Yes , it retains the steering wheel controls | Yes , it plays video via AirPlay and USB | AUX (analog audio) | Yes , it switches automatically on startup | Yes , it maintains automatic rear camera switching | Quick start | € 320 | OpelLink Touch |
Detailed analysis
NavTool 6.0
For years, NavTool was one of the most popular options, but its integration with Opel/GM vehicles is limited. It only works in cars with factory-installed touchscreens, doesn't retain the dashboard buttons, and relies on HDMI for video. Furthermore, it doesn't start automatically and requires additional wiring for the rearview camera. It's a functional solution, but not very refined for those seeking a truly OEM experience. Their technical support is quite limited; they usually answer, but they don't resolve anything.
I've had it set up for many years, and sometimes its stability isn't the best, but overall it works very well within the limitations we've discussed. The sound comes in via the Aux input and is good.
GROM VLine2
GROM offers a complete Android system integrated into the original screen. It allows you to install internal apps from Google Play, which opens up a wide range of options (but be aware, not all are compatible), use CarPlay/Android Auto, and play video via apps, HDMI, or USB. However, it has several significant drawbacks:
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The buttons on the panel don't work in the correct order. (For example, to go back you don't press back, you press the AS button)
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The startup is slower than other options (especially when the vehicle has been stopped for a few hours) precisely because it has to load Android from scratch.
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It only works in cars with a factory-installed touchscreen.
It's powerful, but it's not always the most natural option for those who want to maintain the original car experience.
Their technical support is very good; they answer questions politely and always address all concerns. However, in my specific case, they were unable to resolve the issue with the panel buttons working randomly, and I eventually gave up after several months of trying updates and sending logs. I also experienced some problems with the phone randomly disconnecting, which, despite numerous updates, remained unresolved.
The sound is input to the radio via USB, so the sound quality is very good.
Azton Interface
It's the cheapest option, but also the most limited. It doesn't support the original microphone (requiring the installation of one), only works in cars with factory-installed touchscreens, doesn't respect the buttons on the dashboard or steering wheel, and although it includes a physical HDMI cable, it's not functional . It doesn't start automatically and relies on additional cabling for the camera.
It's a basic solution, designed for those who simply want CarPlay/Android Auto without worrying about OEM integration and don't mind that it only works via the vehicle's touchscreen. Audio input is via Aux, but its equalizer is quite limited and the bass isn't very good.
OpelLink Touch
OpelLink Touch is currently the most well-rounded solution for most Opel/GM models. It retains the original microphone, dashboard buttons, steering wheel controls, and OEM camera switch. Furthermore, it's the only system that automatically lowers the radio volume when you put the car in reverse and the camera activates, and then raises it again once the maneuver is complete.
It starts up quickly and switches automatically, plays video via AirPlay, and offers an experience very close to the vehicle's original system. It's stable, fast, and fully compatible with Opel/GM electronics. The audio input is via AUX, and it's very good.
Conclusion .
If you're looking for an integration that respects the original electronics, maintains all vehicle controls, and offers a seamless experience, OpelLink Touch is the most complete and well-rounded option. NavTool is a good alternative, but more basic in its integration and expensive. Azton is the most economical option but very limited, while GROM VLine2 is powerful but less natural in its integration and is the most expensive of all.
At Blitz Motorworks we only install systems that meet OEM standards and offer the closest possible experience to original factory equipment. To determine which is the best, we have tested them ALL for many months in my own vehicle. That's why I know the strengths and weaknesses of each one perfectly, and that's why we have a clear winner: OpelLink touch.
