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Garmin navigation vs multimedia package?

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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 07:08 AM
  #1  
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Garmin navigation vs multimedia package?

I am considering getting a C300 with Garmin navigation instead of Multimedia package. Would appreciate information on what I lose out besides the bigger screen.
Some questions I had:
- Do voice commands work with Garmin?
- Does HUD work with Garmin?
- Does Garmin display traffic info? Does COMMAND navigation require subscription for traffic?
- Any other differences in the 2 navigation systems?

Thanks in advance.

Last edited by mb_newbie_15; Dec 21, 2015 at 08:16 AM.
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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 08:14 AM
  #2  
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Originally Posted by mb_newbie_15
I am considering getting a C300 with Garmin navigation instead of Multimedia package. Would appreciate information on what I lose out besides the bigger screen.
Some questions I had:
- Does voice navigation work with Garmin?
- Does HUD work with Garmin?
- Does Garmin display traffic info? Does COMMAND navigation require subscription for traffic?
- Any other differences in the 2 navigation systems?

Thanks in advance.
I use google maps on a phone. I gather the higher screen would be more convenient
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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 09:45 AM
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Garmin is a piece of garbage. I cannot input my address with the garmin navigation that they started using in 2014. It also craps out every time there is a time change for central standard time. The navigation stops working a couple of days before then after you make the time change it starts working again. Total piece of garbage. AS they say crap in crap out. The best or nothing
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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 12:30 PM
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I know the 2015 people won't like this, but yesterday we were going to a holiday open house and with the MBrace app, I was able to send the address to my car instantly from the comfort of my home and when I got in my car, my Comand system was ready to start route guidance. OP, I can't recommend the Multi-Media package enough. The voice command-ability of the system is worth the price of admission. The larger all glass screen too. Don't cut corners with a car this expensive.
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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 07:57 PM
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The navigation capabilities, larger HD screen, music register, Sirius weather/traffic, HUD integration and voice control are great. Like rbrylaw said, sending address to the Navi is easy and very convenient. You'll regret not getting the multimedia package.
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Old Dec 21, 2015 | 10:57 PM
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As long as you have the base command system, the Garmin Navigation (SD card based) is same as the Command Navigation (with Hard disk drive and a larger screen, which in my opinion a pretty pricey option for a c300). With Garmin, you can use MBrace as well you have the Nav Voice support.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 08:42 AM
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I would HIGHLY recommend AGAINST the garmin package. I have it now and it is a HUUUUUGE regret. I got it because I am a big believer in Garmin products. I have owned 6 different Garmin map products in a combination of different standalone units, PC apps, phone apps. The MB Garmin system is awful. Routing is usually wrong and takes you far out of the way or on routes 10 minutes longer than the shortest route. Even just initiating a route is PAINFULLY slow. Traffic works well but that's it.

PLUS, if you get the Garmin system your $50k+ Mercedes will be unable to make a hands-free bluetooth call. You will be forced to pick up your phone and manually make a call as you will be unable to make a call via voice command and unable to press a button on your steering wheel to initiate Siri, etc. It's unbelievably sad that they did this. Not to mention my dealer LIED to me about it twice and said that i'd have full control. So don't believe your dealer.

I strongly urge you to not get the POS MB Garmin system.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 11:12 AM
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Originally Posted by True101
As long as you have the base command system, the Garmin Navigation (SD card based) is same as the Command Navigation (with Hard disk drive and a larger screen, which in my opinion a pretty pricey option for a c300). With Garmin, you can use MBrace as well you have the Nav Voice support.
Huh????????
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 11:22 AM
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I have the Garmin SD card navigation. Works great. Pretty much just like a hand held Garmin but with voice control. The owner's manual is very limited in details and some things are just a matter of the proper settings that are not described in the manual.

As far as voice control for the bluetooth telephone calling, without the multimedia package, there is never any voice control for calling, with or without the Garmin navigation. Cannot blame that on the Garmin.

Get somebody at the dealer that is knowledgeable on both (not many are) and make the decision based on your needs.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 12:15 PM
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I like my Garmin navigation. Do not have any major issues with it, I like how it shows traffic and speed cameras. Especially in NYC where there are many speed cameras , red-light cameras installed.

I recommend both. But Garmin does work great.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 12:27 PM
  #11  
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Originally Posted by rbrylaw
I know the 2015 people won't like this, but yesterday we were going to a holiday open house and with the MBrace app, I was able to send the address to my car instantly from the comfort of my home and when I got in my car, my Comand system was ready to start route guidance.
That's the standard "Send2Benz" function that's included with the MBrace app. It's been available since the car was first introduced and I have it, and use it often, on my 2015.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 01:07 PM
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I thought many don't have it since it became a 5 year free option in 2016. Not trying to rub salt in the wound, but you must be paying for the option?
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 01:57 PM
  #13  
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Originally Posted by rbrylaw
I thought many don't have it since it became a 5 year free option in 2016. Not trying to rub salt in the wound, but you must be paying for the option?
2015 models only came with 6 months free. Regardless, if you have MBrace, you have the Send2Benz feature.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 02:12 PM
  #14  
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Originally Posted by StanNH
2015 models only came with 6 months free. Regardless, if you have MBrace, you have the Send2Benz feature.
And the Send2Benz feature is pretty darn tootin cool!
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 06:45 PM
  #15  
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Originally Posted by pfphipps
I have the Garmin SD card navigation. Works great. Pretty much just like a hand held Garmin but with voice control. The owner's manual is very limited in details and some things are just a matter of the proper settings that are not described in the manual.

As far as voice control for the bluetooth telephone calling, without the multimedia package, there is never any voice control for calling, with or without the Garmin navigation. Cannot blame that on the Garmin.

Get somebody at the dealer that is knowledgeable on both (not many are) and make the decision based on your needs.
the owners manual, comand manual and mbusa website detail that voice calling by saying the contact name is available *if* you have the full comand system. The comand manual also details how to add voice tags in the address book for individual contacts and you can bring them up to dial numbers (starts on page 146 of the comand manual). Now if you're saying that there's no way to just have a basic function of saying "call so and so" without adding voice tags then that's even sadder.
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 07:18 PM
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Originally Posted by StanNH
That's the standard "Send2Benz" function that's included with the MBrace app. It's been available since the car was first introduced and I have it, and use it often, on my 2015.
Yeah, I have it in my 2010 S. Now in my car, you need to initiate an MBrace call by pressing the wrench button. Then you get a message about a new destination waiting for download. You approve the download and then it takes a couple seconds to load into navi. Then you need to hang up the call.

Is it more streamlined in the C?
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Old Dec 22, 2015 | 10:13 PM
  #17  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
Yeah, I have it in my 2010 S. Now in my car, you need to initiate an MBrace call by pressing the wrench button. Then you get a message about a new destination waiting for download. You approve the download and then it takes a couple seconds to load into navi. Then you need to hang up the call.

Is it more streamlined in the C?
Yes. Way simpler. With the mBrace app, you simply enter an address, or choose one from your contacts and Send to Benz. When you get in your car and open Navigation, the address you sent from the app, is waiting for you and all you need to do is start route guidance.
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Old Dec 23, 2015 | 11:37 AM
  #18  
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Originally Posted by rbrylaw
Yes. Way simpler. With the mBrace app, you simply enter an address, or choose one from your contacts and Send to Benz. When you get in your car and open Navigation, the address you sent from the app, is waiting for you and all you need to do is start route guidance.
I'm assuming you have the MB navigation? I tried this with the Garmin and it didn't work, which doesn't surprise me.
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Old Dec 23, 2015 | 11:44 AM
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Originally Posted by RemmyZero
I'm assuming you have the MB navigation? I tried this with the Garmin and it didn't work, which doesn't surprise me.
Yes, I have the Multi-Media package, which included the MB Navi system.
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 06:38 PM
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Originally Posted by C_Class_Dad
I use google maps on a phone. I gather the higher screen would be more convenient
Where are you mounting your phone? And do you have the directions pushed through the stereo?

Thanks
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 06:43 PM
  #21  
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i bought Garmin map pilot on ebay for 450$. I also have my phone as gps. why pay more for command. haha. and how often do you go new places?
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 08:17 PM
  #22  
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I wouldn't buy this car without the multimedia package. It would be like buying it without tires.
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 09:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Popcrnchicken
I wouldn't buy this car without the multimedia package. It would be like buying it without tires.
Agreed. I couldn't imagine going back to using a cell phone mounted on the windshield or dashboard for navigation.
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 09:42 PM
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what? you kids must forgot about Garmin map pilot. you don't have to use cellphone if you don't want to.
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Old Feb 20, 2016 | 09:55 PM
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don't forget command also plays DVDs.

dvd audio + burmester system = pretty darn good for a car audio.

the navigation is nothing to write home about, but the huge A$$ screen is very good at displaying the map.

I usually watch navi instruction from my instrument cluster. not sure if this is possible with garmin.

8.4gb of data for music. I put a lot of songs on mine.

voice command is good for navi, recognizes pretty well.

but dialing a contact is a nightmare, like suddenly Command forgot how to speak English.
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