Double DIN head unit recommendations

I have a double DIN slot in my new car. I want to change the stock head unit and replace with something good. What would you guys recommend, high-end?

I am looking at Alpine (because of the 8" display) and at Pioneer (because of its Carplay mode, which *could* be maybe interesting.

But, I'd welcome any recommendation the Empeg community may have.

Is the stock unit unacceptable?

It is more feature limited and bug rich than I wish to.

What is it?

Mazda CX-5.

Why is that relevant? Or, is it just curiosity?

Ok, probably I wasn't clear: I do not intend to simply replace the head unit. I will eventually redo the sound system entirely. I am not interested in compatibility with existing system. In other words:

If your car had no sound system at all, and you had to create it from scratch, which 2DIN head unit would you pick, today?

Thank you!

Do you want navigation built in? I don't really have any experience with these in recent years, but it's fun to window shop!

a Single DIN unit and an Empeg!

Yes, I do want navigation. All current double DINs I have see do come with navigations, actually. None with TomTom, which so far is my favorite bav system, with probably the exception of the Parrot Smart, which allows TomTom app to be installed.

The Empeg could be a nice addition, but I do need my phone and contact list synchronized, and voice commands.

Where is CarPlay in terms of current aftermarket availability?

I have not been paying attention to CarPlay releases in the aftermarket arena. Might still be early days...

So far no aftermarket CarPlay units are out. Pioneer has a few models they claim will be upgradable "summer 2014". I'm guessing a possible release on their side tied to the iOS 8 update coming soon.

I'm also holding off to see what CarPlay does before deciding. The current lifestyle though also has a car as a very rarely used mode of transit, so it may not be worth the investment currently.