New GM models to play with iPod

First it was BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo. Now it's GM's turn to take iPod for a ride.

The U.S. carmaker's newest SUV, the Chevy HHR, along with other 2006 models slated for release later this year, will be fitted with a new car stereo system that can play the iPod.

An iPod can be plugged
in to the new GM radios.

The new radios will feature a spare channel and a front-mounted plug-in jack that can be used for connecting an iPod and other audio sources. The audio can then be played through the vehicle's sound system.

"The Chevy HHR will help launch a new family of radios that will bring iPod connectivity to a broad range of GM vehicles," Paul Nadeau, GM Engineering's director for infotainment displays and controls, said in a statement.

In addition to the Chevy HHR, other 2006 GM models--including the Chevy Impala, Chevy Monte Carlo, Saturn VUE, Pontiac Solstice, Buick Lucerne and Cadillac DTS--will include the adapter as a standard feature.

Several carmakers have begun incorporating iPod controls. BMW initiated the trend last year, and others followed suit almost immediately. Mercedes and Volvo have announced that some of their new models will have iPod connectivity, and Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Nissan say they'll add support in new models before the end of the year.