Mercedes-Benz has given us the ability to add Navigation, A2DP, and a full media interface to Mercedes owners who purchased a C-Class or GLK that doesn’t have the multimedia package installed. I finally got the opportunity to sit down and go through the UMI Interface. It is great and easy to use. I wasn’t sure how it would be since the vehicle has the smaller screen. What I found was no problems at all with the display.
Accessing the various functions is done differently than a vehicle with the Multimedia package…
For navigation you press and hold the “CLR” button next to the COMMAND knob.
From the menu you have all the normal functions/features you find on a vehicle factory equipped with the Multimedia Package.
To access the media functions of the device press the “DISC” key.
This brings up the CD interface. With your COMMAND knob go down one level and select “CD”, this will bring up AUX Menu. Select “AUX” and you are then given the option for “DISC, AUX, USB, Audio Streaming, and iPod”.
Here is a shot of me streaming audio from my Nokia phone to the vehicle. For this function to work, your audio device has to have A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile). You have to pair up your device with the car just like you did with bluetooth phone. It will create a separate profile called UMI.
The last thing to mention is real time traffic assistance for the lifetime of the vehicle.
MSRP is $1500 plus installation. I think you should find it to be under $2000 installed.
Let me know if you have any questions on how it works or the interface it’s self.
Adam
what is the part number etc??? i am in nj and need to get this since the standard ipod integration kit sucks bigtime
hey,
how does the gps compare to a handheld gps, such as garmin or tom-tom.
and does it read out street names?
thanks,
swapnil
The GPS in the vehicle is great. Both on the UMI and through the Multi Media package. When you say read out, do you mean turn by turn? It does do turn by turn navigation on both systems. As compared to after market, they are a good option. It is comparable to them, the nice thing is it is all integrated into the dash. Let me know of any additional questions.
Thanks
Adam
Hi Adam, MB Australia is saying this is a no go here. I am thinking about getting one imported in and installing it. The question is how to load local maps. What maps are used? do you think this is feasible?
Regards
Stuart
Stuart, Thanks for your question. I have placed a call into our accessories support team to see if/how it can be done. This is slowly being deployed throughout “Mercedes Benz Land”. I should have an answer next week for you. Let me know if you have any additional questions.
I have spoken to our Regional Accessories Support. There is no map available at this time to upload to the UMI. They are considering adding other markets, but it wouldn’t be until after 3rd quarter next year. If I hear anything different I will let you know. Thanks again for your question.
Hi Adam, thanks for that.
Adam,
I have this installed in my GLK 350 and was wondering if there are any written instructions available?
The GLK manual has no information about the UMI.
I am trying to locate any info on the UMI I can find for you. Anything I can answer for you now?