[hinckley]

I'm generally in agreement with this review. BMW 1, Audi 2, and Merc 3. To me, all Audi needs is a more visually appealing interface, better map graphics and more info in their HUD. I think they'd then surpass iDrive due to better MMI functionality and their terrific virtual cockpit. Merc has a great HUD. Maybe better than BMW, but their interface is just sad. It hasn't significantly changed in almost 10 years. That's an eon.

In terms of the HUD conversation, I'm firmly in the pro camp. I ordered BMW's very first one on a 2004 545i. I bought it thinking it may be a fun little toy, and immediately realized that it's a huge safety feature. I think the only thing that BMW's HUD lacks is a tach, which has been nicely implemented on GM's systems as a ring around the speed readout. I don't know why BMW hasn't done that yet. But imo, if BMW added that, all that would be needed is an ancillary screen in front of the driver with warning lights, distance to empty, odo, etc.