[eleven11]

I'm not digging this new iDrive at all. It's for the same reason I like my car better than Lexus, Infiniti, etc... more buttons/plastic/clutter on this new iDrive versus the aesthetically clean and simple current iDrive.

[matt_435xi]

Originally Posted by eleven11

I'm not digging this new iDrive at all. It's for the same reason I like my car better than Lexus, Infiniti, etc... more buttons/plastic/clutter on this new iDrive versus the aesthetically clean and simple current iDrive.

+1

[purplewidow]

nice that's when i'll probably get a new car in 2 years...sounds great!!!! i would only get an m3 probably then..or a 911...911 turbo's are just soooo sweet

[LEDZEP]

I think this is just a result of BMW caving in to narrow minded journalists' reviews and the perception that iDrive is harder to use than other maker's systems. Sure, there could be some truth to that, and no one makes the perfect system... but I have no real complaints with iDrive. I will admit that faster scrolling (especially with iPod) would be nice.

[mapezzul]

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

I think this is just a result of BMW caving in to narrow minded journalists' reviews and the perception that iDrive is harder to use than other maker's systems. Sure, there could be some truth to that, and no one makes the perfect system... but I have no real complaints with iDrive. I will admit that faster scrolling (especially with iPod) would be nice.

The system on pre-2007 systems is indeed slower than the current 08 rendition b/c of the haptic feedback of the controller robbing precious CPU power, the haptic-less system is a bit faster b/c of less strain on the low powered processor. Think 2004 computer trying to run modern software, not going to cut it. This thing has needed an overhaul for the last 2 years.

The newer system should be much faster and will have the advantage of a scroll wheel on the steering wheel for the iPod.

[iatacs19]

As long as it's faster, I'll take it.

[JSpira]

A new iDrive controller will make its appearance this year in both the E90 3er Series refresh as well as the F01 7er Series and it will have adjacent function buttons, à la Audi and Mercedes-Benz, but with a design that should make BMW's easier to use. Our friends at BimmerFile sent us this spy photo of BMW's new iDrive controller which represents part of the four generation of BMW's cockpit controller system.

The iDrive controller itself is essentially a data entry instrument that controls curser position, data entry, and function selection. It controls:

• Satellite navigation,
• Telephone functions,
• Entertainment (radio, iPod, satellite and digital radio),
• Climate control settings
• Vehicle settings and preferences.

Click here for complete article and images.

[kamek]

[ManMachine]

I think the changes are great. While current idrive users do get used to the things after a while, one of the main complaints is that it takes a while to get used to them, and to people who test drive the cars and who just purchase the car, the system isn't very initiative (how to get back), which lead to negative press and low initial owner survey scores, both of which are important to BMW.

[RichReg]

Originally Posted by JSpira

A new iDrive controller will make its appearance this year in both the E90 3er Series refresh as well as the F01 7er Series and it will have adjacent function buttons, à la Audi and Mercedes-Benz, but with a design that should make BMW's easier to use. Our friends at BimmerFile sent us this spy photo of BMW's new iDrive controller which represents part of the four generation of BMW's cockpit controller system.

Jonathan, correct me if I'm wrong but, regarding the possibility of a "delay" on the refresh...isn't it possible that ONLY the U.S. introduction would be delayed? I've often seen BMWNA create 'shortened' model years just so they can introduce something new in the Springtime......

[mapezzul]

Originally Posted by RichReg

Jonathan, correct me if I'm wrong but, regarding the possibility of a "delay" on the refresh...isn't it possible that ONLY the U.S. introduction would be delayed? I've often seen BMWNA create 'shortened' model years just so they can introduce something new in the Springtime......

They would intro across all the cars, supply chain thing. Model year stuff is just for the sake of it. They could put them in the car now and still be an 08. Audi is notorious for this, the 2004 1/2 facelift for the A4 is my favorite, having two cars in the same model year with different fascias; brilliant.

BMW is more concerned with residuals and competing with the A4 in the EU, and also keeping things to "launch" in the new 7. If they hold off on the LCI it will be to spring as 2010, and it is not b/c they like new stuff in the spring!

[bimmernupe]

The only thing that I would like changed is the search function for places (e.g. stores and restaurants). You should just be able to put in the name, not have to figure out what sub-category to use.
Again other than that I'm happy. Maybe b/c I have an '08 and after reading JSpira write-up I have not had to contend w/ the issues pre-'08

[JSpira]

Originally Posted by RichReg

Jonathan, correct me if I'm wrong but, regarding the possibility of a "delay" on the refresh...isn't it possible that ONLY the U.S. introduction would be delayed? I've often seen BMWNA create 'shortened' model years just so they can introduce something new in the Springtime......

BMW hasn´t been delaying new models by over a month or so in terms of BMW NA v. Europe or world markets.

What they have done is change the MY so that Germany got the LCI E60 as a 2007 and it magically became a MY 2008 vehicle in March 2007 here.

[digivue]

DCT is the sweetest upgrade in my opinion, should definitely eliminate the manual and automatic trannies' performance gap. As for iDrive, I just hope the screen will gain resolution and will be on par with MB's new C class one. Also if they make it HDD based, that would be a very wise move.

[asif163]

Looks good- can't wait to get my hands on it. Thanks for the info!

[Dubai2LA]

sweet

[Craigito]

I don't mind a few shortcut buttons around the controller. What I can't do is the bazillion of buttons next to the shifter (i.e. S5). Just too busy.

[purplewidow]

Originally Posted by Chips335i

Looks like this is the ZHP model or (M-Sport)

The parking brake has perforated leather that matches the perforated "M" steering wheel and the trim is the Aluminum Cube from the previous ZHP.

it is an m3 i think..it has the soft leather like in the m3 and m6

[STE92VE]

Originally Posted by mapezzul

Yes,
You are correct it is confusing. Like I said there are mixed reports we are getting in regards to the time frame. This is also confirmed by those wanting to order cars for October pickup right now as 2009 models. BMWNA is not allowing it, they are giving a mid-July date (which was originally a May date). Also you may not recall this but BMW did stretch the E46 out until March when the E90 was introduced, they also did the same with the 08 E60., and released the next year early. The original info we received indicates the 09 for sometime this fall with the updates, but now there are some that it may possibly be spring as a 2010. BMW wants to beat Audi to market though in the EU so this makes it more likely for a fall October launch, they can take the one month hit but doubt until Spring.

Always fun to prognosticate....

Either way, I'm glad I changed my plans for ED to Spring 2009...

[woo0254]

Would the new interface be update-able for E93 M3?

[STE92VE]

Don't be too disappointed:

http://www.bmwblog.com/2008/04/23/up...idrive-system/

[FastLane]

The current I-drive is great in my mind. Right, down, down, twist, push, woo hoo!

That new I drive is wack in my mind. To many buttons like an Audi. Where's the simplistic modern design that BMW is known for?

And screw the auto-mag critcs who bash the I-drive. If you aren't familar with it, of course you are gonna hate.