BMW iDrive 5 vs iDrive 6 vs iDrive 7: Differences, Upgrade Options, and Which One You Have
Which iDrive Do I Have?
| Version | Head Unit | Menu Style | Years | CarPlay? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iDrive 5 | NBT Evo | List-based, dark theme | 2016-2018 | Not standard (can be added) |
| iDrive 6 | NBT Evo (updated firmware) | Tile-based, modern layout | 2018-2020 | Yes (may need activation) |
| iDrive 7 | MGU | Completely redesigned, live tiles | 2019-2023 | Yes |
| iDrive 8/8.5/9 | MGU2 | Curved display, minimal buttons | 2022+ | Yes |
Can I Upgrade From iDrive 5 to iDrive 6?
Yes. Since iDrive 5 and iDrive 6 run on the same NBT Evo hardware, upgrading is purely a firmware flash — no hardware change needed. The firmware update gives you:
- Modern tile-based menu layout
- Apple CarPlay support (lifetime activation included)
- Fullscreen CarPlay mode
- Improved graphics and faster response
- Screen mirroring capability
- Video in Motion
This is a remote service performed via ENET cable in approximately 30 minutes.
Can I Upgrade From iDrive 6 to iDrive 7?
No. iDrive 7 requires a completely different head unit (MGU instead of NBT Evo). This is a hardware swap, not a firmware update. You would need to purchase and install an MGU head unit, which is a significantly more involved and expensive retrofit.
iDrive 5 → 6 Upgrade: What You Get
| Feature | iDrive 5 | After iDrive 6 Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Menu layout | List-based | Tile-based |
| Apple CarPlay | Not available | Lifetime activation |
| CarPlay fullscreen | N/A | Yes |
| Screen mirroring | No | Yes (Android) |
| Video in Motion | No | Yes (USB/DVD) |
| Graphics quality | Basic | Improved |
Related Products
- iDrive Firmware Upgrade + CarPlay + Fullscreen + VIM — from $199
- Apple CarPlay — iDrive 7 MGU — $259
- iDrive 4→6 Update with CarPlay — $359