Details on new infotainment /iDrive here

why doesnt it list the 5 series and X5?

Because those don't get it till 09.

Truthfully, it's about time. How long have people been complaining about the idrive system? I believe it's been since they first introduced it! As I mentioned in another section, BMW likes to be known for concentrating on performance, not bells and whistles. However, if they want to continue to sell in a market where competitors are becoming, well, very competitive, they'll need to start listening. Porsche is doing just that in their '09 Cayenne. Their PCM is going touchscreen with enhanced resolution, bluetooth, ipod, etc. Range Rover and Lexus have FAR better nav systems than BMW and Audi's MMI is just light years easier and more simplified that idrive.

It's nice to hear the news. Unfortunately, I just bought an 08, but that's okay. I'm sure this will be a late introduction 09 or 10 model. I'll be ready for a trade in by then!

I am very disappointed to have missed the new system by one year. I had to buy this year but have enough problems with the I-drive on my own and my spouse won't begin to touch it.
Adding insult to injury the nav took me on the wrong I-40 today when coming in to Greensboro, NC and I ended up calling BMW Assist because I was almost out of gas (15 miles showing left) and could not see an exit with a service station anywhere. In the morning when I need to move around Greensboro, I am going to plug in my old Garmin 2720 to make sure I make appointments on time.

That's crazy... I remember one time a few years ago (in an '05 X5) when I was using the nav to make a meeting out in Long Island, it took me off an exit, then back on the highway in the opposite direction, then off the first exit and back on the right way again. I had no idea what happened, but to be honest, I've never had problems with any of car's nav - just the BMW.

I can see the new posts now... "how do i retrofit my pre-09 vehicle with the new idrive?"

:popcorn:

how do i retrofit my pre-09 vehicle with the new idrive?

I want things like my rear-view camera to come up much quicker! Hi-res screen? I'll take three.