PS - I didn't touch on reliability, and on the third option which is an expensive non-MB unit e. So there's no definitive choice here: it's a choice between originality and functionality. As said, I went (twice) down the original MB router, because on the parameters that matter to me this was the right solution, however I am well aware that my NTG2.5 at the time and NTG4.7 now have always been old tech, in fact they have been so even when released on new cars. So I don't see a direct comparison between latest-tech low-cost non-MB device, and original MB device - they differ on various parameters. if retrofitting), anything to do with original maps, licenses, coding etc will be more expensive than the costs associated with fitting an after-market device. Even setting aside the 4-figure cost of a brand new MB COMAND unit (e.g. (b) When dealing with the original car manufacturer's infotainment systems, the cost is likely to be far higher than Android devices bought off eBay. But even if you buy a W205 with NTG5*2, you are looking at technology released in 2014 so probably developed in 2012-2013, i.e. So we are dealing with 10-12 years old technology. NTG2.5 was released around 2008, so it was probably in the making since a couple of years earlier, and it was finally retired around 2012. (a) Car manufactures will always be behind in releasing new technology.

There are two very obvious downsides, however: I went for the original MB units because I wanted to keep the original look and feel as well as the full integration with the instrument cluster and the steering wheel buttons. So, i guess i am a tinkerer and am quite comfortable replacing head units etc.Ĭommandonline retrofitted NTG2.5 to my W203 and NTG4.7 to my W204. These details of the COMAND unit are below:

I don't mind buying a STAR machine as i can help check the car over / faults etc. Balancing costs of upgrade, Would you switch to Android (Sell COMAND) or keep COMAND. Money wasn't a consideration, should i Switch out to Android aftermarketĥ. I can provide you Europe maps that will work ( but you will have to take the ntg 2.5 unit out of the car and. for free) -PS: If you have old firmware and maps, older maps wont work with new firmware. Is it relatively easy to update the COMAND using Star C3?Ĥ. If someone needs Firmware update for NTG 2.5 to version 09/29 - latest I can help you out (ofc. Update the Firmaware COMAND APS NTG2.5 unitġ. Purchase / Rent a STAR C3 Multiplexer (and associated)ī.

Comand aps ntg4 software update