Introduction: More Than Just a Ride
Investing in a BMW is about more than transportation—it's about stepping into a world of technological luxury. This includes a variety of navigation systems and smartphone integration options. When configuring your BMW, you'll encounter media packages with differing multimedia and technical features, influencing the overall cost of your vehicle.
The key aspect to focus on is the type of navigation system and head unit, which can be more crucial than the package itself. This guide aims to clarify these options, particularly useful if you're considering an upgrade to the Navigation System Professional or making choices for a new BMW.
Understanding BMW's Navigation Systems
To determine your BMW's navigation type, use a VIN decoder and look for codes like S606A, S6UNA, S6UPA, or S609A. These codes correspond to the most common navigation systems in US- and Euro-spec BMWs.
Business Navigation vs Professional Navigation: A Comparative Overview
Business Navigation (denoted as 606) is an older European model, offering less advanced maps and multimedia features compared to the Professional Navigation.
BMW head units are categorised as follows:
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional (MGU head unit with ID7 interface)
- Navigation System Professional (CCC, CIC, NBT, NBT EVO ID4/ID5/ID6)
- Basic Navigation Systems (MASK, CHAMP, CHAMP2, CIC-MID, ENTRY, ENTRYNAV, ENTRYNAV EVO)
Apple CarPlay in BMW's Basic iDrive Systems
Original Apple CarPlay is available exclusively in the latest Business iDrive, ENAVEVO, EVO ID5/6 and MGU.
Identifying Your BMW's Head Unit
To check if your BMW has HU_ENTRYNAV or CHAMP 2 or different navigation:
- Verify the map version for each head unit:
- Motion for MASK2
- Move for CHAMP2
- Route for ENTRYNAV
- Way for ENAVEVO/ENTRYNAV 2
- Next for NBT
- Premium for CIC
Access this through Navigation -> Settings -> Navigation system version. This is relevant only for iDrives equipped with navigation and flash memory for map storage. For other units, estimate the installation year based on the model and year of the vehicle.