Quote:
Originally Posted by elp_jc
I got nav because of what I'd be missing without it IMO: iDrive. I hardly use nav, but wouldn't enjoy my car nearly as much without iDrive. Plus on '08s, 'tech' was the only way to get EDC as well. Yes, that makes the car less reliable in the long run, but both options were a must for me. You need to decide what options are important to you then decide. Good luck.
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I have an '08 without iDrive. And I have EDC. EDC was a standalone option in '08. Maybe you're thinking M drive.
I've never seen an dual DIN setup in these cars but that doesn't mean it can't be done. I have the base (HiFi) audio system and will be upgrading it but I will keep the HU and just change out the amp and speakers; the amp's in the trunk so there is no messing with anything in the console. Most speakers will need some form of adapter to fit and BMW doesn't provide a whole lot of depth behind so that may limit what kind of speakers you get. Bavariansoundwerks dot com offers speakers specially made to fit BMWs. Earthquake has subs that replace the OEM subs under the seat. Beyond this you may need to be a bit creative. There are adapters you can buy though that will help you mount 3rd party speakers. Search the forum for these. FWIW, most folks think the premium audio system upgrade is pretty decent, especially for an OEM system.
If you really want the navigation then look for '09 as they upgraded the iDrive system for 2009 and it is much better. I feel the '09+ system is pretty darn good. Aftermarket nav units may have a couple of features not offered, but they're not really anything worth giving up the integrated look and function of the BMW iDrive system, IMO. You can get aftermarket rear-view cameras to work with the BMW iDrive. Search on the forum, there are at least a couple folks here that sell camera/video systems and other electronic accessories.
In summary, if you really want all the electronic goodies and want it all integrated with the car then get the OEM audio and nav and get an '09+. If you want something super and don't mind putting in some effort, then get any year M3 with the base audio and no nav then add your own.
To me the biggest attraction of the M3 is the engine and handling. The electronics goodies are nice but I'd gladly forgo all of that for just the sound of the exhaust with the windows down. Good luck.
Cheers.