Lack of a Simple HUD in the Base Model
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2025 AMG GT 63, 2023 S500, 2022 GLE53
Lack of a Simple HUD in the Base Model
Anyone else find it strange they left out a basic HUD, opting instead to only offer the augmented reality version as an option, an option that is missing in the vast majority of dealer inventory that is out there?
While not having one wasn’t a deal breaker, HUDs kind of sit up there with AC as in being essential and should be included, especially when way lesser models of other brands include it as standard.
The only good thing about not having a HUD is that I’m noticing I’m driving a lot slower than before because I have no idea what speed I’m going. I’m tempted to set the speed alert to 50 MPH so at least I have an audible indication of speed.
While not having one wasn’t a deal breaker, HUDs kind of sit up there with AC as in being essential and should be included, especially when way lesser models of other brands include it as standard.
The only good thing about not having a HUD is that I’m noticing I’m driving a lot slower than before because I have no idea what speed I’m going. I’m tempted to set the speed alert to 50 MPH so at least I have an audible indication of speed.
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23 S580 Executive
Yeah, it's crappy, their options setup. Way over bundling. Huge. Ridiculous, as in the actual meaning of the word; worthy of ridicule.
You've jumped in though so you got what you got. As I said when you were asking pre-purchase, I would have skipped that one. No HUD is a deal breaker to me; looking down at the dashboard is what cavemen did in their Dinobuicks. It is not what anyone should be doing in a top line Mercedes uber sedan in the 2020s.
I don't mean to give offense, some guys seem fine without it as you are and I recognize it's only my opinion. For me the S class is 3 things: Comfortable , luxurious, and a technological leader. Without the tech it's missing something.
You've jumped in though so you got what you got. As I said when you were asking pre-purchase, I would have skipped that one. No HUD is a deal breaker to me; looking down at the dashboard is what cavemen did in their Dinobuicks. It is not what anyone should be doing in a top line Mercedes uber sedan in the 2020s.
I don't mean to give offense, some guys seem fine without it as you are and I recognize it's only my opinion. For me the S class is 3 things: Comfortable , luxurious, and a technological leader. Without the tech it's missing something.
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From: Hong Kong, China
2021 S450 4Matic
The HUD is not a necessity to me. Having driven some lesser models of other brands, it is neither a deal maker nor a deal breaker for my consideration. If MB includes that as a standard, it is fine. If it is not, it is not a big deal.
I do not mind glancing down to the dash for info (eg speed, temp...etc). In fact, this habit has been perfected long time ago per my 4 decades plus driving experience. It is just second nature to me. Having a HUD just does not negate my habit overnight.
However, I imagine people in their 20's (or even 30's) are now growing up with the HUD (to a greater degree than my generation) and they are likely (and they should) to accustomed to it.
BTW, top 3 factors for my choosing of an S-Class are:- safety, comfort and reliability.
I do not mind glancing down to the dash for info (eg speed, temp...etc). In fact, this habit has been perfected long time ago per my 4 decades plus driving experience. It is just second nature to me. Having a HUD just does not negate my habit overnight.
However, I imagine people in their 20's (or even 30's) are now growing up with the HUD (to a greater degree than my generation) and they are likely (and they should) to accustomed to it.
BTW, top 3 factors for my choosing of an S-Class are:- safety, comfort and reliability.
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2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
I virtually never look at the HUD. If I ever order another S Class, I would skip the option. I also prefer the dash without the big recessed area.
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2022 S580
I’ve had my S580 for a year now. I had a Lamborghini Urus prior to that and never thought I would use the HUD that came with it but I got used to it. It was pretty basic but somewhat useful.
The S class HUD is truly amazing and I would not buy another car without it. It came with my car and I though it would be ok. However, you get lots of info just by glancing at the screen. It even tells you at traffic lights that by pressing the brake firmly you’ve engaged “HOLD”. It’s also visible with polarized sunglasses on (whereas the Urus wasn’t).
When I drive my other cars without HUD I realize how much I miss having that information easily accessible at eye level.
If you have the opportunity to get this option do not miss out!!
The S class HUD is truly amazing and I would not buy another car without it. It came with my car and I though it would be ok. However, you get lots of info just by glancing at the screen. It even tells you at traffic lights that by pressing the brake firmly you’ve engaged “HOLD”. It’s also visible with polarized sunglasses on (whereas the Urus wasn’t).
When I drive my other cars without HUD I realize how much I miss having that information easily accessible at eye level.
If you have the opportunity to get this option do not miss out!!
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23 S580 Executive
I first had a HUD 20 odd years ago. Took me a while to get used to not looking down at the gauges but once I did; I didn't want to go back. This particular HUD is the best in the business and the AR nav is excellent when you figure it out.
Just as an aside; if safety and comfort are a criteria; looking down at the gauges forces a near focus and then a refocus to far vision when you look up again. Using a HUD reduces driver fatigue and increases comfort for that reason. It also improves safety as it keeps your focus on the road. HUDS aren't a gimmick.
Just as an aside; if safety and comfort are a criteria; looking down at the gauges forces a near focus and then a refocus to far vision when you look up again. Using a HUD reduces driver fatigue and increases comfort for that reason. It also improves safety as it keeps your focus on the road. HUDS aren't a gimmick.
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From: Maryland
2024 S580
LOL, I wouldn't turn one down if it was on the car I was buying, but I just personally wouldn't option it if I was ordering a car
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23 S580 Executive
I want to say 97ish it came on C5, that was the first high content configurable display. GM had it on a few cars years before that, don't remember which ones. With the Germans we ordered it for an E60 but it was on constraint and came without. I think that was 04 or 5. I'm sure there were probably others out earlier.
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Anyone else find it strange they left out a basic HUD, opting instead to only offer the augmented reality version as an option, an option that is missing in the vast majority of dealer inventory that is out there?
While not having one wasn’t a deal breaker, HUDs kind of sit up there with AC as in being essential and should be included, especially when way lesser models of other brands include it as standard.
The only good thing about not having a HUD is that I’m noticing I’m driving a lot slower than before because I have no idea what speed I’m going. I’m tempted to set the speed alert to 50 MPH so at least I have an audible indication of speed.
While not having one wasn’t a deal breaker, HUDs kind of sit up there with AC as in being essential and should be included, especially when way lesser models of other brands include it as standard.
The only good thing about not having a HUD is that I’m noticing I’m driving a lot slower than before because I have no idea what speed I’m going. I’m tempted to set the speed alert to 50 MPH so at least I have an audible indication of speed.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2022
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2022 S580
I also wear polarized sunglasses, very often during daylight hours…have had no problems seeing the HUD.
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