What is MBUX?

What is MBUX?

MBUX stands for Mercedes-Benz User Experience and is the name given to the infotainment multimedia system that Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-EQ put in their vehicles.

It is truly cutting-edge and can be controlled intuitively via touch, voice and gesture. This means users can focus on driving and still be able to communicate with the infotainment system with whichever method they prefer and feel most comfortable with, in complete safety.

MBUX is always learning, meaning that this state-of-the-art infotainment system uses artificial intelligence and can therefore remember and prompt things like favourite music, daily routes - such as commutes, and also frequently called telephone numbers.

When did MBUX first appear?

Usually, car manufacturers showcase their latest technology on their range-topping model first. Previously, Mercedes-Benz had always used their range-topping S-Class to feature its state-of-the-art technology, but on this particular occasion, Mercedes-Benz decided to do things a little differently.

That is because in 2018, when Mercedes-Benz revealed the brand-new A-Class, it was the first model to feature MBUX. This was significant as it grabbed the attention of the motoring press, because unlike many manufacturers using top of the range cars to showcase new technology, Mercedes-Benz was using their entry-level hatchback to do it.

MBUX was just getting started.

What does MBUX look like?

Many new car models feature digital screens, most notably the infotainment one in the centre of the dashboard, with many top specification models also featuring a fully-digital instrument cluster too.

MBUX comes as standard in the A-Class with two seven-inch TFT displays, one for the instrument cluster and one for the infotainment screen. However, if you opt for an upgraded package these screens both increase to 10.25-inch, giving a widescreen effect.

The latter looks more complete and impressive, so if you want the full MBUX experience, it is worth keeping that in mind. However, with other models, the looks can vary with larger screens or even portrait screens, as shown in vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S.

MBUX Hyperscreen takes things further in the EQS and EQE with the display stretching almost the entire width of the vehicle's dashboard, with an additional screen for the passenger giving a much grander MBUX experience.

What are the advantages of MBUX?

Due to the cutting-edge nature of MBUX, it comes with a number of advantages which include:

• Configuration - MBUX has lots of customisation so you can toggle your display styles.
• Multiple Control Methods - use either voice, touch or gesture to use MBUX.
• Artificial Intelligence - Means the system learns traits and habits of the user - suggesting radio stations, a faster route to work or prompting regular calls.
• Head-up Display - Transforms the outlook for sporty driving, meaning key information is always in view. Available on selected models.
• Wireless Charging - Available on selected models.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - Full smartphone integration keeping you connected safely and legally whilst driving.
• Different presentations - MBUX differs in some models or is even enhanced in some cases with MBUX Hyperscreen.

What are the disadvantages of MBUX?

Like anything, there are few things which may be seen as a disadvantage to some people when using MBUX, these are:

• Digital Instrument Cluster - With many cars still featuring analogue instruments, some users may not like the fully-digital set-up of MBUX. However, the V-Class still features analogue dials with its version of MBUX. 
• Commands - Sometimes voice commands or gestures may not receive the desired outcome.
• Cost - To get the more striking larger screens, an additional package may need to be purchased on lower spec'd models.

What Mercedes-Benz models feature MBUX?

With any new technology, especially in automotive, it is only reserved for certain models, but in this case, MBUX is actually available on every model in the Mercedes-Benz range in one form or another,  as well as their Mercedes-AMG alternatives if available. MBUX is also available in every Mercedes-EQ model.  Below are the Mercedes-Benz models available with MBUX: