GWM H5 vs Nissan X-Trail vs Renault Duster: which one has the best infotainment system?
Compare the infotainment systems in these three compact SUVs and see how they fare based on their functionality, connectivity and controls interfaces. Make sure you're satisfied before you decide to buy.
The GWM H5 was a compact SUV that hailed from China and was one of the company's first forays into the SUV market locally. Shortly after its release, GWM launched its Haval sub-brand that focuses solely on SUV offerings, leaving the GWM nameplate to concentrate on the light commercial sector. The H5 took on the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Trailblazer and some of the smaller offerings like the Renault Duster, Jeep Compass, and Nissan X-Trail.
Related: Top 3 things you need to know about the GWM H5
The H5 was discontinued around 2018 and Haval elected not to bring in the newer model, opting rather for the H6, H6C and now more recently, the Jolion. To make sure we're comparing apples with apples, we're going to look at how the H5's infotainment system stacks up against the Nissan X-Trail (third-gen: T32) and Renault Duster (first-gen: HS) of a similar era. These three can all be had for roughly the same money and all three are previous-generation models.
GWM H5
GWM H5 models produced after 2013 were fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system that offered a host of features. Situated in the centre fascia, this large unit occupies a double-DIN space but would require a trim plate if you're thinking of upgrading. There's no real need though as the system offers you a radio with CD/DVD playback functionality including support for MP3 audio file types. The system will also accept Bluetooth connections for audio streaming and hands-free telephony and there is a USB and AUX input for external devices. This system pre-dates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you will have to rely on Bluetooth connections.
The system's screen measures approximately 6-inches in size and is flanked by numerous shortcut and control buttons. Shortcuts are logically located on the left-hand side and allow the operator to select the desired input while the right-hand side deals with audio controls including track skip and search buttons. Two rotary knobs handle volume and tuning functions with push actions for power control.
A multifunction steering wheel provides controls for the driver and audio is plumbed through a six-speaker audio system.
Nissan X-Trail (T32)
Launched in 2013, the Nissan X-Trail has been with us for over 8-years now and in that time has received a few updates. With a new model on the horizon, the outgoing model still offers great value for money but the technology is starting to feel somewhat dated. The T32 model X-Trail features an AM/FM radio with Bluetooth, USB, and AUX input. The included CD player is capable of reading both MP3 and WMA file formats.
X-trail models that were specified with the Techno Pack will see the entertainment system updated to an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen. This was also standardised in models after 2018. This unit offers a 7-inch colour touchscreen with bundled satellite navigation and all the usual connectivity options one would expect. The unit is not Apple CarPlay or Android Auto equipped though so one will have to depend on Bluetooth connections.
Drivers are given a multifunction steering wheel with audio controls.
Renault Duster (HS)
When the Renault Duster was launched in 2013, it offered buyers a host of tech options that were previously unavailable at this price point. The Duster, in Dynamique trim, is fitted with the Medianav system that employs an LG processor and uses GPS software from Nav & Go. The 7-inch touchscreen is a full-colour unit with a colour-coded and tiled home screen layout. It offers AM/FM reception, USB and AUX input and will accept Bluetooth connections for audio streaming and hands-free telephony. Later models are equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and it would be best to check with the dealership if this update is available as a retrofit.
Renault is the one manufacturer that has refrained from adding audio controls to the steering wheel itself and instead provides an audio control pod, situated just behind the steering wheel and mounted to the column. This interface can be tricky to work with at first and one has to feel around for the buttons as it is hidden from sight and not visible while on the move.
