yes, I did some research and many installers claim that they can easily replace the head unit and duild a new panel to cover the gaps. But I haven't seen one yet. Do remember that the panel is quite curvy and it is not easy to fabricate one. You need professionals with the right mould to do it. I think the installers will cover it using a flat piece of plastic, which will make the DIN console looks ugly!
I upgraded the ICE using Blaupunkt products. But Scott Buwalda, the ICE champion from US told me that HU is not really that important. He said you should spend 90% of your budget on the speakers.