Sorry if this was covered before.

I noticed that there's two types of radio offered on the R56. A standard version and what seems to be a upgraded version with a bigger display and multifunction buttons instead of dedicated preset buttons. Here's a pic taken at the NAIAS by Outmotoring: http://www.outmotoring.com/photos/20...C_5343_JPG.jpg

Now, I assumed the upgraded headunit was part of the optional 10 speaker hi-fi package. But then I saw this picture: http://www.outmotoring.com/photos/20...C_5341_JPG.jpg

From the look of it, this car is not equipped with the hi-fi package since the extra tweeters are not present. Here's another pic taken by Outmotoring at the NAIAS: http://www.outmotoring.com/photos/20...C_5331_JPG.jpg

So, does all the U.S. spec cars come with the upgraded headunit?

 

???
They all look the same to me.

 

ok, there is the boggo standard hifi, 1 line display. then there is the boost cd, which is the one shown in your pictures, which is 2 line display and some other fancy stuff, and then there's the 10 speaker hifi setup with DAB, which you do not have a picture of.

 

Rec, can you translate "boggo"?

I think the US gets the "Boost" standard which is a step above the "Wave" which is not available here. Maybe "boggo" is Brit slang for a wave?

 

Slang for "stock" or "base model", with a somewhat negative connotation. (boggo being a diminutive of "bog")

 

so US gets the 2 line display standard right?

 

UK get the boost (2 line) display in the MCS as standard.

Obviously this look different if sat nav is specced.

The upgraded speakers do not change the head unit.

The head unit is not easy (maybe not possible) to change

 

Thank you, that was what I was trying to say . With the extra control **** and the multifunction buttons, I hope the ipod interface is much better.

 

The response in the U.K. has been lukewarm to the standard stereo. The consensus on mini2 has been that the extra money has been well worth it for the optional 10-speaker hi-fi upgrade.

 

As good as the HK system sounds on the R53 I would DEFINATELY upgrade the stereo on an R56. They did it right when they designed the HK system and I am sure the R56 stereo design would be just as great if not better.

 

Yeah, check out MINI2 for a number of hi-fi reviews.

Bottom line is the upgrade is well worth the extra $500 and blows away the HK stuff on the R53.

 

Speaking of Ipod interfaces, is it available in the UK yet?And is it a big deal for the dealer to fit?

 

There is a lengthy thread on MINI2 about it. Lots of talk about prices and functionality.

http://www.mini2.com/forum/2nd-gen-i...ce-fiited.html