[mercury26]

What does iDrive add to the 3-series other than Navigation? I know that has some features on other models other than just Navi. Any additional info would be helpful.

Thanks in advance,

Chuck

[JSpira]

Without iDrive your car comes with the LOW end car computer.

iDrive includes the high version of the computer, the CCC, and that includes many features including voice command for hundreds of features, speech-to-text conversion for mobile phone, a trip computer - this is just off the top of my head.

Of course you get the proper screen real estate necessary for iPod and satradio.

[pander5]

Voice command function alone would get me to get it again! I'm a 6MT driver and my E46 coupe was the same - very difficult to drive and talk on a phone while shifting! Plus all the other voice activated functions are especially appreciated while shifting.

Of course, my main reason for having the iDrive is because I wanted the nav package anyway however I'm finding the additional functions of the computer very worthwhile in my opinion.

[theroyalwe]

not to mention easy access to your car settings (door locking/unlocking behavior etc) is a nice perk... and one thing you can't get without idrive is the parked car ventilation.

[runnerx]

Don't trust car mags.. We hated iDrive on the first week of ownership then we can't live without it. It is worth every penny.

[the*saint*]

I share the same sentiment as runnerx. Can't live without it now. I'd say that aside from the obvious like Navi, iDrive provides a much more driver-centric interface for easily accessing vehicle/entertainment settings and viewing vehicle service indicators.

Regardless of what car mags and short-term reviews say, iDrive is simple to use and using the controller is minimally distracting for the driver. I find that I don't need to concentrate so much compared to say using a touchscreen.

[Lassaxi]

Originally Posted by mercury26

What does iDrive add to the 3-series other than Navigation? I know that has some features on other models other than just Navi. Any additional info would be helpful.

Thanks in advance,

Chuck

As everyone has pointed out, there are a lot more detailed adjustments you can make through iDrive than you can't make without it. I find that to be the main benefit, other than the nav. Plus, the instructions, messages, and warnings are much clearer on the iDrive screen.

I would also echo the other comments that iDrive and the nav are really fantastic. We've all heard a lot of complaining about them from the magazines and other posters, but I actually think the iDrive system is more convenient than the old-fashioned hunt-and-peck method of using climate control and radio functions. And, when I got back from my ED and started using my Garmin nav again, I appreciated the BMW nav much more.

[NPDAN]

I love the iDrive.... easy set up of specifics. Never had anything like this before and now cant imagine not having anything like it going forward......

[bmw0perat0r]

To some extent, for those who didn't get the iDrive may in the future be regreting it. I had 2nd thoughts about getting it b/c of all the people who apparently hated it - this and other forums - but I am so glad I added it.



Sat + iPod + bluetooth phone + vehicle funtions and options + nav + great screen = awesome

I feel bad for those who didn't get it, they have no idea what they're missing.

[ibd12nv]

Originally Posted by bmw0perat0r

To some extent, for those who didn't get the iDrive may in the future be regreting it. I had 2nd thoughts about getting it b/c of all the people who apparently hated it - this and other forums - but I am so glad I added it.



Sat + iPod + bluetooth phone + vehicle funtions and options + nav + great screen = awesome

I feel bad for those who didn't get it, they have no idea what they're missing.

I'm with you totally Operator. My nextr question is how can we make it do more. Like the Eurospec versions. TV, DVD on the screen, etc.?

[killer_bee]

Originally Posted by ibd12nv

I'm with you totally Operator. My nextr question is how can we make it do more. Like the Eurospec versions. TV, DVD on the screen, etc.?

I think the basic tools are there, but they can improve the interaction a bit, especially the voice command. I wish there were short-cut commands like "Tire Pressure", "Oil Level", or "NAV to ______ (name in destination list)" instead of going through some menus.

Back-up camera (+front and side cameras) would be awesome. The future google map feature is gonna be very helpful although I think you would need a new hardware(car) for that update.