Could this be the best Audio answer?

[r_liebo]

I've been bantering around the idea of adding an integrated entertainment system to the car, such as the PIONEER AVIC line.

One of the things that has kept me from doing it (other than laziness) is the look of every aftermarket system. Everyone I've seen, altough very nice systems, just doesn't quite fit seemlessly with the classically understated look of the W210 E55.
Until now.

This new Bose Infotainment system is the first one that would look right at home on the dash.
Innovations - Bose Automotive Systems Division

The design and layout are much more classic than techno. It almost looks like an OEM part.

This product isn't out yet, I don't think. It has the vibe of "overpriced" as many Bose products do, but we will have to wait and see how it shakes out.
Sorry about the 1/2 pic, but the site isn't quite developed enough yet to offer a lot of views to "cut and paste." The link will take you to better views.

[Benzonline]

I dont think this can be bought seperately from Bose, rather it will only come integrated into new cars such as Ferrari.

[r_liebo]

Originally Posted by Benzonline

I dont think this can be bought seperately from Bose, rather it will only come integrated into new cars such as Ferrari.

Actually, just heard back from Bose today. Inital plans are for the Ferrari but this
product will likely be available aftermarket later on in the product cycle.l
May be a while, unfortunately

[leomd]

Its a very nice looking HU and the unit will fit the E55 DD opening however I am afraid to say, more than likely, the fitament you are looking for won't be there. The Comand system has an oversized face that is designed to fit like a glove into the OEM black birdseye maple panel. Finding a HU with the same diamater corners and size is extremly difficult if not possible at all - then, even if you find something - you have to worry about mounting depth and steering wheel integration etc.

I put an Avic D3 in my E55 and the fit was off by 1/4 " all the way around...it drove me crazy after a few months - insane - I ended up selling the D3 to a friend with a Mazda Protege (perfect fit) and bought a Comand unit from germany. lthough I miss the extras of the D3, the Comand gives you the perfect fit and the SW integration was really nice to have back.

I think if you are looking for a nice seamless fit with any aftermarket HU you would have to make a custom wood DD panel . By doing so you would have the option of going further and reverse the positions of the nav with the AC, i.e. have the double din screen mounted above and the AC controls below - that would be slick.

[r_liebo]

Originally Posted by leomd

Its a very nice looking HU and the unit will fit the E55 DD opening however I am afraid to say, more than likely, the fitament you are looking for won't be there. The Comand system has an oversized face that is designed to fit like a glove into the OEM black birdseye maple panel. Finding a HU with the same diamater corners and size is extremly difficult if not possible at all - then, even if you find something - you have to worry about mounting depth and steering wheel integration etc.

I put an Avic D3 in my E55 and the fit was off by 1/4 " all the way around...it drove me crazy after a few months - insane - I ended up selling the D3 to a friend with a Mazda Protege (perfect fit) and bought a Comand unit from germany. lthough I miss the extras of the D3, the Comand gives you the perfect fit and the SW integration was really nice to have back.

I think if you are looking for a nice seamless fit with any aftermarket HU you would have to make a custom wood DD panel . By doing so you would have the option of going further and reverse the positions of the nav with the AC, i.e. have the double din screen mounted above and the AC controls below - that would be slick.

No doubt it won't fit like a glove or have steering wheel integration.

However, what I'm more concerned with in my unit is that from a design standpoint it integrates. Many of the aftermarket units look way too techno or futuristic for the W210. This Bose unit has manual buttons with pictograms that match MBs design. First unit I've ever seen with one.

The OEM route would nice for integration purposes, but it lacks Bluetooth (a must for me) and sat. radio integration (another must)
It would be great if someone could modify an OEM unit to offer Bluetooth and sat. radio. That would be ideal.