The last thing you want from a luxury SUV is an infotainment system that doesn't come to the party. There's no point in having all the bells and whistles if it's frustrating to use. You'll want to know that it can connect and stream, and offer features that will make journeys easier, safer and more comfortable.
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These three big German names are neck-and-neck in the technology race and offer very similar features and functionality, making it tough to choose a winner. Nevertheless, let's look at what features they do offer, keeping in mind that not all features may be available in the grade model you select, or are offered as optional extras. This is also not an extensive list of features but does highlight some of the more prominent ones.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Boasting the largest screen real estate of the three, the Mercedes-Benz GLE employs the MBUX infotainment system as found on several other models. The GLE is the first Mercedes-Benz model to have gotten the MBUX infotainment system and it comprises of two 12.3-inch screens, tied together to create a widescreen cockpit for the driver and passengers. The central screen serves navigation, entertainment and settings functions while the screen in front of the driver replaces the traditional analogue gauges.
The driver screen can be configured to show one of four different themes including Classic, Progressive, Sport and Subtle. This screen can be configured to show a variety of vehicle and driving information and is used to control the driver assistance systems as well.
The main screen features a simplified home screen with the main menu broken down into several groups depending on the functions. This menu is scrolled through with a swiping motion and then tapped on for further access to the sub-menu. While not initially intuitive, one soon gets used to the hierarchy and flow of the system.
Users are able to interact with the system either via the touchscreen or through voice control. The Linguatronic system recognises natural speech and commands and is able to alter the vehicle settings based on commands like "I'm getting cold" whereby it will increase the climate control temperature and activate the seat heaters. A touchpad is also supplied in the centre console for further control and drivers have the option of using the multifunction steering wheel. This is required to alter the driver display and is the only form of control for this screen.
The system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and accepts Bluetooth connections. It's worth noting that all USB ports are of the USB-C type, catering to newer devices and handsets. An optional Burmester audio system can be specified for improved audio reproduction.
BMW X6
The BMW X6 uses the BMW Live Cockpit Professional setup, running BMW's OS 7.0. It features a 10.25-inch screen for the infotainment display and an additional 12.3-inch display for the driver information. Both allow for customization and drivers are able to select the desired information they want to be displayed ahead of them, while the main screen of the central display can be reconfigured to show frequently accessed features or useful information to their journey.
The menu system is considerably easier to navigate than in the past and BMW has retained their iDrive controller in the centre console for scrolling through the menu and making selections. In addition to the iDrive controller, users can interact with the touchscreen or by using hand gestures in front of the screen itself. Tracks can be skipped, volume can be altered and calls answered or rejected with a few simple gestures. In addition, voice control allows the driver to issue basic commands and can activate the function with a "Hey BMW" or similar programmed command.
The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and will accept inputs from Bluetooth connections for hands-free calling and audio streaming. When fitted with a sim card, the system will create a mobile WiFi hotspot and allow access to connected features such as Connected Music and Connected Drive Services that will assist with planning your day and navigating through traffic.
Audi is played through a Bowers & Wilkins audio system and can be upgraded to the Diamond 3D system for unparalleled audio reproduction.
Audi Q8
You will get no fewer than three screens in the Audi Q8. The first screen provides a digital driver display with a customizable layout allowing for the desired driving information to be displayed. Drivers will also be able to opt for a minimalist look and feel with a guidance map taking up the most space and relegating the tachometer and speedo to simple numerical readouts.
The central screen is the main infotainment screen and is home to the MMI Navigation Plus infotainment system. The tiled home screen allows for icons to be sorted as you wish in a similar fashion to those on a smartphone. This gives you access to the most frequently used functions of the system. Assorted driver profiles can be set up to allow for a personalised look and feel for more than one driver. This screen features a glass front casing and has haptic touch feedback, replicating the touch sensation of a physical button. This feature can be set to the desired level or turned off completely.
The third screen rests below the central one and this smaller screen handles climate controls, seat heating and cooling (if equipped) and, when connected to a mobile phone, offers a dialling pad and handwriting recognition pad so that calls can be made with minimal effort.
The MMI system accepts inputs from USB and Bluetooth and offers Apple CarPlay for smartphone tethering of Apple devices.
