Having an amazing sound system in your vehicle can make a world of difference every day. Perfectly crisp sounds and your favourite tunes can melt away the stress of the day or help you kick off your morning with just the right vibe. If you live in a busy urban area, then having a best-in-class sound system can even drown out the sirens and honking horns outside, completely transporting you to another world. A great sound system might seem like a luxury, but once you have one, you’ll realize it’s a necessity.
One survey found that as many as 76 percent of drivers say that having a realistic spatial sound from their audio system is important to them when shopping for a vehicle. Those who know how much value perfectly-placed speakers and subwoofers add to a vehicle are probably shopping for a Cadillac Lyriq, an Audi A8, a Mercedes EQE SUV, or a Grand Wagoneer for sale. These are some of the 2023 and 2024 models delivering the most incredible sound systems that true audiophiles can appreciate. For many drivers, the dinky little six-speaker sound systems found in tons of vehicles today just won’t cut it. If you can’t hear your music the way it was intended to be heard, why even bother, right?
#1 – 2023 Grand Wagoneer
The Grand Wagoneer has always been for drivers who demand luxury. Its cabin is flush with high-end materials and beautiful design details. The Grand Wagoneer was made for drivers who appreciate solid performance but also want their cabin to be a true pleasure to spend time in. Plus, since a full-size SUV is perfect for long road trips, it’s important that everyone can hear the music or that riveting podcast conversation clearly. The Grand Wagoneer has just the sound system for that.
The 2023 Grand Wagoneer gets the McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System. This surprised many because people tend to associate McIntosh with home entertainment systems. Step into the private screening room of anyone who takes that heart-pounding, true-to-life surround sound seriously, and you’ll likely find a McIntosh system. For the Grand Wagoneer, this leading sound system innovator is offering its creativity and expertise to the world of vehicles. The minds at McIntosh actually worked inside a prototype cabin of the Grand Wagoneer when creating this sound system so they could really experience what drivers would hear as they perfected their system. The end result is incredible.
The McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System has 23 precision-placed speakers throughout the cabin to really make you feel like you’re at a live concert. It’s said to have one of the highest-performing 12-inch subwoofers in its industry. The MX1375 delivers listeners 1375 watts (hence the name) of perfectly clean power, thanks to a 24-channel amplifier. It also features McIntosh’s patented Power Guard Technology, which works to prevent harsh sounds and keep the system from calling for more power than it can create. All in all that makes for a seriously smooth listening experience.
#2 – 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The best in vehicle technology deserves the best in sound systems, and that’s why Cadillac’s electric SUV, the Lyriq, gets the show-stopping AKG Studio 19-speaker sound system. Thanks to the quiet nature of electric vehicles, you can really enjoy this sound system in the Lyriq, too.
Sink into this SUV’s luxurious cabin, and you’ll instantly be amazed at all of the nooks and corners from which sound comes piping through the speakers. There are speakers placed inside of the front head restraints for a truly all-encompassing sound. You’ll find other speakers in the dashboard, within the doors, and in the cargo area.
With 14 amplifier channels and a massive subwoofer, you’ll become immersed in your music. This system, as its name suggests, is designed to make listeners feel like they are in the studio with the recording artist. If you want a really intimate listening experience where you pick up on the tiniest of audio details, you’ll love this sound system.
#3 – 2023 Audi A8
Those looking for a luxury sedan to pull out all the stops and impress potential clients or new bosses should definitely check out the 2023 Audi A8. It’s stunning inside and out, with a cabin that welcomes you to relax. The 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen Sound System certainly lends to that experience.
Bang & Olufsen has been making sound systems with retro charm and modern capabilities for decades. It’s a favourite among those who love bringing midcentury designs to their entertainment spaces while getting the best in sound, and their speaker systems are a welcome addition to Audi vehicles. For reference, Bang & Olufsen hasn’t only partnered with Audi. It has lent its terrific systems to many of the names drivers see as synonymous with luxury, including Lamborghini and Bentley.
As for the system found in the Audi A8, it has 23 perfectly positioned speakers throughout the cabin. What makes it really special, though, is the vehicle noise compensation system. This essentially accounts for vehicle and road noise, delivering perfectly crisp sound despite these distractions.
#4 – 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Finally, we get to another electric SUV, the sophisticated Mercedes EQE SUV. This model is graced with the presence of the Burmester 3D Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos. It was designed specifically for the EQE’s cabin, and every component of the system ensures flawless sound at every corner of the vehicle’s interior.
The addition of the Dolby Atmos defines the system’s name, as it creates what many describe as 4D sound. Close your eyes, and for a moment, you’ll be certain you’re in the room with the musicians. It also boasts elements that eliminate vibration and features a unique digital amplification for low frequencies that ultimately makes for a really warm sound.
Let a Great Sound System Transform Your Driving Experience!
These four models exhibit the best of the best when it comes to sound systems in new cars. Naturally, they are famously high-end models. It speaks to the unfortunate reality that many people only see a great system as an unnecessary luxury. But great music through even greater sound systems can really help set the tone for your day. It can soothe you when things aren’t going well or energize you before a special event.
Once you experience one of these sound systems, you won’t be able to return to a regular, subpar version. Your ears will be too sophisticated, and you’ll instantly notice how obnoxious all of the background noise is or how abrupt high frequencies sound. Rear seat passengers will complain that they can’t even hear the music because there aren’t any speakers back there.
You likely spend a lot of time in your vehicle. How you spend that time matters. Music impacts your mood. It can nurture creativity and help you mull over the problem you’re dealing with. It helps you get over heartbreak or celebrate the good times. A good sound system simply makes life better.
Next time you test drive a vehicle, don’t forget to test out the sound system while you’re at it. Bring along some of your favourite tunes and really crank that thing to see if it is the right fit for your listening experience.
