Outdated Looking Infotainment System

I care more about how it works than how it looks. I'm sure its partly to keep costs down.

Not sure how well it'll work as I haven't come across a video or review of the infotainment system. It's more of a preference for me as larger screens are easier on the eyes.

True. It doesn't even look like a touch screen too. I am assuming that Mercedes is trying to keep the price down assuming that people are more concerned with the work than the luxury. Seems very early '00s to have a full num-pad on the centre stack. Reminds me of car phones.

It isn't a touch screen. Its an MB Audio 15. If you want to play with one, a 2014-2015 Sprinter has the exact same system.

Have you had a chance to use it? Can you let us know if you liked it? Did it have enough features and was it intuitive?

It's sorta a simplified Command system. It's fairly basic. It's fairly easy to use. Mercedes SatNav sucks though.

You would recommend getting an after market nav system?

I wanted to just continue using google maps on my smartphone. Alas, it seems that according to the ordering guide the only way to get a rear view camera and cruise control is with a package that includes navigation.

That is true. However, you get the Becker Map Pilot module in a box and can sell that portion of it if you see fit for ~$400 on eBay. I intend to keep using my Garmin Nuvi for nab even though I have that package. No reason to stop using your phone if that's what you like.

If you can sell the Map box then it would be around $1140 for the rear view mirror, fog lamps, cruise control and the storage tray. It's not too bad of a package.

I might look into how much all these things cost after market. Just to get an idea of the cost in relative perspective.

Colin said:

I might look into how much all these things cost after market. Just to get an idea of the cost in relative perspective.

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Let us know what you find. I have yet to delve into any of that stuff. Not at that level yet.

Did you find out how much the parts would cost after market?

I agree the infotainment aspect of the metris seems a little outdated to say the least. Does anyone know of or has any suggestions on aftermarket navigation (head unit) packages that work/integrate well with the Metris? I'm looking for large screen, smart phone capatibilty, ease-of-use, etc.

Anything info is much appreciated.

If/when I order one, it will not be with a nav system installed. I prefer my portable one on the windshield to a factory installed system. I learned my lesson with my 05' volvo. To update, buck up $200 to Volvo for the latest DVD that plays in the glove box. the dealer told me MB is a removable module you hook up to your pc to update for free. Still, I'll stick with my windshield version, free lifetime maps, from Garmin.

Yes, you pull the module out and plug it into your computer to update. My dealer said updates were free. The note on the box says it is free for 60 days. This is not a concern for me yet because I have an Apple computer and the update system doesn't work on Apple. At least it didn't for me and my web searches have found several discussions indicating Apple and Becker know it doesn't work and they both point fingers at the other company.

There are a number of companies that sell MB style head units. I personally wouldn't bother, because the system is excellent except for the Nav.

And you can buy a 5.8" nav PND for twice the price of a Becker map update. Or my splendid 7" Garmin with restriction navigation, voice activation, lifetime traffic, etc for about $300.

The sound quality is awesome.

spockmckoy said:

If/when I order one, it will not be with a nav system installed. I prefer my portable one on the windshield to a factory installed system. I learned my lesson with my 05' volvo. To update, buck up $200 to Volvo for the latest DVD that plays in the glove box. the dealer told me MB is a removable module you hook up to your pc to update for free. Still, I'll stick with my windshield version, free lifetime maps, from Garmin.

Click to expand...

I wound up with the NAV system because I was told there was no way to order the rear view camera and cruise control separate from the "efficiency" package. My phone works much better as a NAV unit and I have an old Garmin that I can use if I am out in areas with no phone data signal.

I have found the NAV system clunky and hard to use and also provides vastly different ETA and mileage numbers than my phone.