Head Unit Honda SatNav/HFT and Xcarlink interface

[djbenny1]

Hi guys,

Some of you may have read my previous posts - I'm looking to buy a CTS (probably diesel) in a little while and I'm trying to gather as much information as I can so I make the right decision!

Right now I'm considering whether to hold out for a SatNav model or not.

The one must-have feature for me is iPod connectivity - I can only afford an 07 or so model, so it will have to be an aftermarket solution.

With regards to the build in satnav/HFT system:

Second nice feature would be the built in car kit - but I've read mixed reports. I wouldn't mind adding my most used numbers into the cars system manually, but the call quality would have to be decent.

SatNav would be nice, sure, but my phone always does a pretty good job and
I don't really use a SatNav that often in truth - would be nice to have though.

Now...

I've read about the Xcarlink - seems like a nice system, but as I understand it:
Plays music from iPod from any given playlist, and can change tracks with steering wheel controls (AND head unit controls?? Is it true that the car thinks it is a CD multichanger?)
Has optional bluetooth - how does this work?? Do I need to install a microphone if I don't have the Honda SatNav built in? This is important lol
Can't change between playlists etc without using the iPod
There is no track information displayed anywhere no matter what

Seeing as I NEED iPod functionality, and would LIKE hands free functionality; it looks like my options are HFT/SatNav AND non-bluetooth Xcarlink, OR bluetooth Xcarlink.

Which would you guys recommend and how true are my pros cons above? Please add anything extra you feel is relevant!

Thanks