Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Android Head Unit Review

Upgrade Your Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Infotainment System

Many Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 owners find the factory navigation system to be somewhat dated, with slow updates and a less-than-intuitive control method. If you're experiencing frustration with your current setup, particularly the jog-shuttle control and infrequent map updates, an Android head unit retrofit can be a game-changer. This review details a recent installation on a W213 E-Class, focusing on how an all-in-one navigation system with a capacitive touch screen significantly boosts convenience and driving pleasure. While this specific installation took place in South Korea, the principles and benefits apply universally to owners seeking a modern infotainment upgrade.

Before and After: Enhanced Navigation and Usability

The factory navigation in the W213 E-Class, while aesthetically pleasing, often suffers from cumbersome map updates and outdated speed camera information, posing a risk of speeding tickets. The reliance on the COMAND controller for input can also feel slow compared to modern touch interfaces. This review highlights the transformation achieved by integrating an aftermarket Android navigation system, specifically one featuring the Atlant 3D map. The core of this upgrade involves a new interface module and a 'Z2 Premium' set-top box navigation unit, which overlays its display onto the existing factory screen. Crucially, this system leverages the car's original GPS antenna via a 'GPS MOD' to ensure precise location tracking, avoiding the potential inaccuracies of standalone GPS modules. The result is a seamless integration where the original Mercedes-Benz system remains intact, but navigation capabilities are dramatically improved. The new system boasts a responsive capacitive touch panel, offering a smartphone-like user experience. A key benefit is the ability to switch between the original Mercedes display and the new navigation interface with a simple press of the factory 'NAVI' button, making operation intuitive and straightforward.

Installation Process and Key Components

The installation process for an Android head unit in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 is designed to be integrated cleanly, preserving the vehicle's original aesthetics and functionality. The estimated time for this type of upgrade is typically between 4 to 6 hours. The primary components involved include:

1. Interface Module: This crucial part bridges the aftermarket navigation unit with the car's original display and controls.
2. Set-Top Navigation Box (e.g., Z2 Premium): This unit houses the Android operating system and the navigation software, such as Atlant 3D.
3. Capacitive Touch Panel: This replaces or overlays the existing screen control, providing a much more responsive and user-friendly touch interface.
4. GPS MOD: This adapter ensures the aftermarket navigation system utilizes the vehicle's factory GPS antenna for superior accuracy.

The Atlant 3D map software is a popular choice due to its clear 3D graphics and real-time speed camera updates, enhancing both safety and efficiency. The durability of these systems is generally good, with the map update support typically lasting for at least three years. Maintenance primarily involves keeping the navigation software updated, which is usually straightforward through Wi-Fi connections.