Hello there! I am new here & would like to thank you guys for this informative site. Well I have a question about the NAV system because I have the normal radio system with no monitor like the picture I have attached. Can I replace it with the NAV system & would it work??? thanks

 

I suggest a trip to your local car radio installation store. Alpine makes fine navigation products for cars. I had one in my 98 E320. I also use Hertz Neverlost which is actually made by Magellan, and it is very good. The difference is Alpine can be fit into the location of the radio and Magellan sits off to the side. Both have voice instruction and maps. I am not sure if Alpine can fit in the 03 Eclass because if the shape of the radio area. The rectangular shape of prior models fit perfectly.

 

Just curious why you decided to buy nav at dealer this time versus the old route. I am suddenly contemplating the portable nav as an alternative to COMMAND II. This has the nice perk of being able to be used in my other car on long trips (its a minivan). It also makes the E500 affordable with multiple alternative options. Given that the portable units have voice directions etc, it does not seem like there are too many drawbacks besides the smaller screen. Your thoughts?

Also, what is the best portable unit on the market that you are aware of so I understand what the benchmark is?

Thanks

 

I changed because the MB navi is less expensive than the Alpine. Also, the Alpine leds are not exactly the same intensity as the MB instruments. Buying the MB model makes everything match. I suggest going the Magellan Car nav. Do a search for the Magellan 750 M GPS. The 750M is very similar to the model used in Hertz rentals which I have found very good.

 

You may want to check out Garmin GPS products if you are interested in portable units. I have used them for the past 9 years and have been impressed. Location is www.garmin.com.