Now that the 2017 model of the G-Class are being delivered to customers, I'm wondering if anyone knows what parts would be involved in upgrading a 2013 G63 to the newer COMAND NTG5.1 in the 2017 model that includes CarPlay support and a larger display, among other things.

I'm hoping that if the wiring loom is the same, then an upgrade may be possible.

 

Any idea how the new GPS display looks like? I don't see any room on there to put a bigger screen and not block the driver's view

 

I test drove a 2017 G63 this past weekend (and expect to be taking delivery of a 2017 G63 around the end of the month; all they have in stock right now is one that's white with red leather, which I'm not keen on). I wanted to drive a G63 to see how the ride compares to my 2016 G550. I took a relatively short drive, which included a short stint on the highway. My feeling is that it's a slightly stiffer ride (will feel bumps a bit more), but is better overall as it feels like a more controlled ride than either the comfort or sport mode on my 2016's adjustable suspension. I do need to sort out all season tire options as summer rated tires won't cut it in the Boston area and I don't have the space (or desire) to deal with 2 sets of wheels or tires...

Anyway, regarding your question... The screen is clearly wider, but not significantly taller, so there's no issue with blocking the driver's view. The new display is a big improvement all around. The backup camera now has the guide lines to show where you're actually headed and has better resolution. The nav system also has some major improvements, such as being able to browse upcoming exits along your entire route and see more details on restaurants and gas stations at each exit (and select one as an interim destination) instead of seeing what's coming up on only the next 3 (and no ability to really do anything with those options) on 2016 and prior G's. It still has the old control wheel that 2016 and prior G's have rather than the new one with the touch pad, like on GLC, GLE, E, and so on, but AFAIK, this doesn't limit any of the functionality, you just don't get the option of using the touch pad. My take is that they would have needed to make relatively major changes to the center console to accommodate the new touch pad controller as it's quite a bit bulkier than the old control. My brother bought a 2016 GLC earlier this year, so I've had a chance to play around a bit with the updated nav system and get his feedback on it; overall it's a huge improvement and is the primary reason I'm trading my 2016 in as I didn't want to wait another year and risk getting the first year of the all new G-wagon (W464); I'm going to let other people try out the new G's for a few years before I consider getting one. Hopefully this helps.