It seems that all German cars (especially BMW and Mercedes) have 'Auto' climate controls, yet require the "snowflake" or AC button to be activated/illuminated at the same time. American and Japanese cars seems to just use Auto.

It has been my experience with 12+ BMWS and 20+ MBZs, that BMW HVAC is a little behind Mercedes and for sure Lexus and most American cars (surprisingly). BMW always seems a little weak, not as even and not as well performing in terms of HVAC (especially A/C). But, their engines and most of their transmissions make up for it!