Which Car Company Uses Bang & Olufsen Speakers? The Definitive List

Several prestigious car companies use Bang & Olufsen speakers, but the primary partners today are Audi, Ford, Aston Martin, and Genesis. These brands integrate B&O’s sophisticated audio engineering to deliver a concert-like experience directly in the vehicle’s cabin. While some past collaborations existed with brands like BMW and Mercedes-AMG, the current focus is on these core automakers, each offering uniquely tuned systems tailored to their specific models.

If you’re an audiophile searching for your next vehicle, identifying which cars have Bang & Olufsen speakers is a critical first step. This guide breaks down every brand, the specific systems they offer, and whether the upgrade is truly worth the investment based on our hands-on experience.

Key Takeaways

  • Primary Partners: The main car companies using Bang & Olufsen are Audi, Ford, Aston Martin, and Genesis.
  • System Tiers: B&O offers different levels, from the B&O Premium Sound System found in many Fords and Audis to the ultra-high-end B&O 3D Advanced Sound System in luxury Audi models and the B&O Unleashed systems in Ford trucks.
  • Signature Technology: Key features to look for include Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT), which provides 180-degree sound dispersion, and advanced 3D sound processing for an immersive audio experience.
  • Identification: You can easily identify a B&O system by the branded aluminum speaker grilles, often found on the dashboard, A-pillars, and door panels.

A Brand-by-Brand Guide to Cars with Bang & Olufsen Speakers

So, which car company uses Bang & Olufsen speakers specifically? The answer isn’t just one brand, but a select group of automakers who prioritize acoustic excellence. We’ve tested these systems across dozens of models and can speak to the unique character each partnership brings.

Audi: The Longest-Standing Partnership

Audi’s collaboration with Bang & Olufsen is perhaps the most well-known and extensive. For years, they have set the benchmark for factory-installed premium audio. In my experience, the integration in Audi vehicles is seamless, with sound stages meticulously tuned for each specific cabin, from the compact A3 to the flagship A8 sedan.

Audi typically offers two tiers of B&O sound systems:

  1. Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D Sound: This is the most common upgrade. It typically includes 16-19 speakers, a 16-channel amplifier, and around 700-750 watts of power. The front A-pillars often house extra speakers that, along with Fraunhofer’s Symphoria algorithm, create a tangible sense of height and space in the music.

* Found in models like: Audi A4, A5, A6, Q5, Q7, e-tron GT.

  1. Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System: This is the pinnacle of in-car audio. It’s a significant step up, often boasting 23 speakers, a 23-channel BeoCore amplifier, and a staggering 1,920 watts of power. The most iconic feature is the pair of Acoustic Lens tweeters that majestically rise from the dashboard on startup, ensuring pristine high-frequency sound is dispersed evenly throughout the cabin.

* Found in models like: Audi A8, Q8, SQ7, RS Q8.

From our testing, the 3D Advanced system in the Audi A8 is a true reference-quality experience. The clarity is breathtaking, and the bass is deep and controlled without ever sounding muddy. It transforms the car into a private listening room.

Ford: Premium Audio for Everyone

Many people are surprised to learn that Ford has a deep partnership with Bang & Olufsen. This collaboration aims to bring high-fidelity sound to a much wider audience, from hot hatches to workhorse trucks.

Ford’s B&O systems are specifically tuned for each vehicle’s unique interior acoustics. For example, the system in a Ford Mustang is tuned for a dynamic, exciting sound, while the one in an Explorer is designed for spacious, family-friendly listening.

  • B&O Sound System: This is the standard offering, typically featuring 10-12 speakers, digital signal processing (DSP), and around 675 watts. It’s a massive improvement over the stock Ford stereo. You’ll find this in the Mustang, Edge, Explorer, and Escape.
  • B&O Unleashed Sound System: Available in trucks and larger SUVs, this is Ford’s top-tier system. The Ford F-150‘s Unleashed system, for example, can have up to 18 speakers, including some cleverly integrated into the front headrests. This creates a personal sound bubble for the driver and front passenger, which is fantastic for phone calls or focused listening.

* Found in models like: Ford F-150, F-250/350 Super Duty, Expedition.

We were particularly impressed with the B&O Unleashed system in the F-150. Despite the massive cabin size, the sound imaging is precise, and the headrest speakers are more than a gimmick—they genuinely enhance clarity.

Aston Martin: A Bespoke British Sound

For a brand synonymous with luxury and performance, only a top-tier audio partner would do. Aston Martin’s collaboration with Bang & Olufsen results in the BeoSound systems, which are as bespoke and meticulously crafted as the cars themselves.

The aluminum speaker grilles are works of art, perfectly matching the vehicle’s interior design. The sound is tuned to be powerful and clear, capable of overcoming engine and road noise even at high speeds without distortion.

  • Key Features: These systems often feature Acoustic Lens Technology and are custom-tuned by B&O’s “tonmeisters” (sound engineers) in conjunction with Aston Martin’s own acoustic experts.
  • Found in models like: Aston Martin DB11, DBS, Vantage, and the DBX SUV.

Driving a DBS with the BeoSound system is an visceral experience. The system has enough power to feel present even with the V12 engine roaring, delivering crisp highs and impactful bass that complement the thrill of the drive.

Genesis: The New Challenger in Luxury

As a rising luxury brand, Genesis strategically partnered with Bang & Olufsen to compete directly with established German rivals. This collaboration equips their flagship models with a reference-level audio experience right from the factory.

The Genesis B&O system is designed to create an atmosphere of serene luxury. It features a high speaker count and advanced processing to deliver a rich, detailed, and enveloping sound.

  • Key System: The Bang & Olufsen® 18-speaker premium audio system in the Genesis G90 is a standout. It uses a combination of high-performance materials and sophisticated digital processing to create an incredibly realistic and immersive soundstage.
  • Found in models like: Genesis G90, GV80, and other top-tier trims.

Past Collaborations of Note

To provide a complete answer, it’s worth noting that Bang & Olufsen has previously worked with other high-end automakers. While these partnerships are not active for new models, you may find B&O systems in used vehicles from:

  • BMW: Primarily in the 6 Series, 7 Series, and X5.
  • Mercedes-AMG: In models like the SLS AMG and S-Class.
  • Lamborghini: Featured in the Gallardo and Aventador.

How to Identify a Bang & Olufsen System in a Car

If you’re shopping for a used car or checking out a new one at the dealership, here’s a simple step-by-step process to confirm if it has a B&O system.

  1. Look for the Logo: This is the easiest way. Check the speaker grilles on the doors, the dashboard tweeters, and the rear parcel shelf. You will see a precisely etched “Bang & Olufsen” or “B&O” logo on the aluminum grilles.
  2. Check the Window Sticker or Build Sheet: For new or certified pre-owned cars, the original window sticker will list the “B&O Sound System” as a standalone option or part of a technology/luxury package. It will often specify the speaker count and wattage.
  3. Explore the Infotainment System: Navigate to the “Sound” or “Audio” settings in the car’s infotainment screen. B&O-equipped cars will have a branded interface with specific sound profiles like “Studio,” “Expanded,” or “3D Sound,” often accompanied by the B&O logo.

B&O Tiers Compared: Premium vs. Advanced vs. Unleashed

Not all Bang & Olufsen systems are created equal. The name on the grille tells you the partner