UMI photos

Here are some additional photos of the UMI interface in action.  The biggest advantage of the UMI is the ability to control your iPod or iPhone from the COMMAND controller versus your multi-function steering wheel with the regular iPod integration kit.  I have included what the real-time traffic screen looks like.  Navigation controls are easy to use.  You can control your view point from your COMMAND controller… heading up, birds eye view and settings in between by simply pull back or pushing forward on the controller.  The I use the UMI the more I am impressed with it.  I think for current C-Class owners who want navigation this is a no brainer.

Adam Denault

www.mybenzguy.com

Mercedes-Benz UMI Interface Review

UMI interface

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…

COMMAND Controller

UMI Navigation Menu

Navigation ScreenFor 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.

CD Menu

AUX Menu

Media Interface MenuThis 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”.

 

A2DP Streaming Audio

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

www.mybenzguy.com