I have a 2017 XE that has the NLI sound system which has the 8"inch touchscreen. I have added a processor after the factory amp to get more power to the speakers, while leaving the same headunit.

I am trying to decide if I should add a Carplay module sold aftermarket, or go for the whole upgrade to the 10.25 touchscreen? Since I have the NLI system, I cannot get factory Carplay, and the NLI system mostly fails in controlling my Iphone with music.

The aftermarket Carplay module (around $400USD and up) keeps the existing 8 inch touchscreen, but intercepts the signal and adds Carplay and Android Auto that can be controlled by the existing unit.

The full retrofit with the 10.25 inch screen attempts to mimic the InControl Pro/Plus system to look like the premium radio. These have been available for the last 4 years or so. Some are really expensive at around $1200 USD, but now there are some units available starting ~$600 USD.

What I don't know is how reliable each of these solutions are. I've seen reports of the full Touchscreen retrofit being buggy, and so I wonder if just the Carplay module would integrate more seamlessly?