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iPod support becoming a must for cars

Portable music added to auto sales pitches

iPod connectivity is becoming de rigeur in new vehicles across multiple automobile markets and territories.

Kia introduced its latest vehicle this month, the Kia Cee'd. The five-door hatchback carries a seven-year warranty and carries an MP3 player input. The company will introduce full dedicated iPod integration to its new range in summer this year.

Volkswagen last month announced that its new Golf Match has become the most popular Golf it sells - and also includes a built-in iPod connection.

Toyota US this week confirmed iPod support in its latest Scion range of cars, all of which ship with a standard 160W Pioneer AM/FM/CD audio systems featuring a head unit with iPod control. Information on songs is shown on the display.

Premium marque BMW last month launched its BMW 1 series of cars. These come with iPod support and USB stick capability. Tracks are selected via steering wheel controls or the iDrive system.

Korean car-maker Hyundai is also dancing away at the iPod party, with its new Coupe SIII shipping with an iPod connection as standard. That car was introduced on 12 January.

Finally, in this non-exhaustive list of iPod-supporting car makers, Ferrari used the 2007 North American International Auto Show to confirm its cars are ready to be upgraded with iPod connectivity.

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