Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Android Head Unit Review

Transform Your Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 with an Android Head Unit and Around View

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a capable vehicle, but its original infotainment and parking assistance systems can feel dated compared to modern standards. This review details a dual retrofit process, combining an Around View system with an Android All-in-One head unit, to bring a decade-old SUV up to contemporary technological levels. This comprehensive upgrade aims to enhance both convenience and driving experience, making the GLE 350 feel like a brand-new car.

Around View System: A 360-Degree Parking Revolution

For many drivers, especially those with larger vehicles like the GLE 350, parking can be a source of stress. The Around View system transforms this experience. Unlike a standard backup camera that only shows the rear, Around View utilizes four cameras (front, rear, and both sides) to create a seamless 360-degree bird's-eye view on the dashboard display. This composite image allows for precise spatial awareness, significantly reducing the risk of minor collisions in tight parking spaces. The installation involves discreetly mounting cameras on the vehicle's exterior – typically integrated into the front grille, rear bumper, and side mirrors or panels. A critical step after physical installation is calibration, a meticulous process using specialized equipment to ensure the camera feeds align perfectly, creating an accurate composite image. This calibration alone can take over 30 minutes and is essential for the system's effectiveness. The result is a dramatically improved parking experience, with a clear, full-color 3D view of the car's surroundings.

Android All-in-One Head Unit: Smart Functionality for Your Drive

The second major upgrade involves replacing the original infotainment screen with an Android All-in-One head unit. Many older GLE 350 models feature smaller displays and designs that limit screen size. Modern Android units often integrate air vents, allowing for significantly larger displays – typically 10 inches or more, compared to the standard 7-8 inch factory units. The true advantage lies in functionality. While factory navigation systems can have costly and slow map updates, Android head units offer full access to the Google Play Store. This means you can download and use any navigation app you prefer, such as Google Maps, Waze, or local alternatives, with real-time updates. Furthermore, these units support seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, often wirelessly if a Wi-Fi module is added. This allows for easy access to calls, messages, music, and navigation directly from your phone. The system can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers.

Installation Process:

1. Careful disassembly of the vehicle's center fascia to access the original head unit and wiring.
2. Connection of the new Android head unit using specialized adapters to ensure compatibility with the car's existing systems (e.g., CAN bus for steering wheel controls and climate functions).
3. Integration of the Around View system's cameras and wiring, followed by precise calibration of all camera feeds.
4. Testing of all functions, including navigation apps, audio, climate control, and parking assist, to ensure seamless operation.

The entire installation process, including both the Around View system and the Android head unit, typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on the specific vehicle configuration and any additional options. This dual retrofit transforms the GLE 350's interior, offering a modern, connected, and safer driving experience. The approximate cost for this combined upgrade in Korea ranges from 2.3 million to 3.5 million KRW (roughly $1,500 to $2,500 USD), varying based on the specific components and installation shop. This investment can significantly extend the usable life and enjoyment of a 2015 GLE 350.