With all of the innovation in computers nowadays, why haven't car radios gotten significantly smaller?
It’s hard to judge a car radio’s size because most are crammed into a bulky center console. Still, the technology is out there to integrate multiple functions, including climate and radio controls, into a compact design. Volvo has done exactly that on select models, and a slim version of its radio/center controls frees up room compared to a traditional console. Some of us think it makes for a stylish design, too.
Volvo’s center stack is about an inch thick and runs from the dashboard to the floor (see picture of C30 interior above). That build leaves valuable space behind the console freeing up room for a cubby hole/storage area best suited for miscellaneous pocket goodies like cell phones, change, keys, etc.
One of our pet peeves is when the stereo controls are hard to use on the fly because the buttons are miniscule. If automakers do offer smaller stereos, we hope they execute the design as neatly as Volvo with buttons that are easy to use.
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It is bulky because it needs to have a front panel thet you can see from a distance and buttons that you can push without pushing 2 or 3 at the same time. Also, back panel must have enough real estate to put 12V and antenna connectors, etc. Also, radios are integrated with CD players. You ned to put CD into some kind mechanical device as well...