ICE-cool Pioneer systems

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Voice-activated phone, audio and navigation systems — they’re wonderful things. Trouble is, such equipment is usually available on brand-new cars only — with most of those being in the luxury bracket (although Ford has its Sync system for the Focus). What about the drivers with older cars who don’t see themselves changing anytime soon but would like to upgrade their in-car entertainment, or ICE? Especially in light of the hands-free law coming into force July 1?

Perhaps something from Pioneer’s AVIC-F range might do the trick. The AVIC-F500BT is a portable on-dash unit that will handle iPods and Bluetooth-equipped phones (including uploading the phone’s contacts list), take spoken commands and provide directions. Its 5.8-inch touch screen may also act as a monitor for a reversing camera (which must be purchased separately). It will cost $600.

The next step up is the AVIC-F700BT ($850), which is an in-dash design (these units require professional installation or at least a high level of proficiency), It’s ready for satellite radio, has a CD player and USB slot, and uses a power amplifier that kicks out four channels of 50 watts each. The AVIC-F900BT adds a DVD player and MSN Direct -- a service that provides real-time traffic reports, plus things like movie theater information, weather forecast and gas prices – into the mix for $1,100.

The thing about all these units is that they recognize conversational phrases, like: “Let’s hear the artist, um, U2” or “I want to listen to, er, artist Justin Timberlake” (it might be fun trying to confuse it with: “Let’s hear the artist formerly known as the The Artist Formerly Known As Prince” -- or maybe not). They use a new generation of voice recognition technology. The graphics are pretty nice too.

— Colin Ryan