BMW to make extras like heated seats subscription based options

New software update for models with iDrive 7 also includes automatic switching to electric power in city centres for plug-in hybrid models

BMW has revealed a handful of new features for cars running the latest version of the brand’s iDrive infotainment software, which will eventually include the ability to make comfort and convenience features such as heated seats subscription based. 

From July, all newly built BMW models running the seventh-generation version of iDrive will receive updates and new features. Owners of existing models with iDrive 7 will also receive the new features by way of an over-the-air software update. 

As part of the free update, BMW plans to gradually expand its line-up of digital after-sales offers to include “certain comfort functions” such as heated seats, meaning buyers who don’t option them from purchase will be able to unlock them via app or through the infotainment system for a price. 

The functions will be already built into the car, requiring owners to purchase them outright, or subscribe for a period of one to three years. However, all unlockable, built-in functions and extras will be available with a one-month trial period. 

The update, which BMW says is its “most comprehensive vehicle software upgrade to date,” also includes updated navigation, a redesign for the BMW Personal Assistant, and the addition of wireless Android Auto smartphone connectivity. 

Navigation now includes contextual information for nearby points of interest, such as opening hours, ratings and even preview images of destinations. The brand claims a new cloud-based route calculation system is faster and more accurate with real time traffic data than before and with easier destination input, while Connected Parking services showcase where on-street parking may be available at a destination. 

Connected Charging features now include additional information about charging stations, including opening times and real-time availability. Navigation automatically takes into account available charging points for longer journeys. At home, owners can define specific charging windows when the car is plugged in, to take advantage of cheaper tariffs at certain times. 

For owners of plug-in hybrid BMW models, the update introduces eZones, which uses positional data to identify when the car is in a low emission zone such as a city centre. The car will automatically default to purely-electric drive with no intervention, and BMW says it will launch in 80 European cities when the update goes live. 

Also part of the update is the introduction of BMW Digital Key, which means Apple iPhone owners can use their handsets as a fully digital key for the vehicle. 

Do you think subscription based options are a good idea? Let us know in the comments below...

Recommended

BMW iM3 trademark could preview all-electric M3 super saloon
BMW M3 EV
News

BMW iM3 trademark could preview all-electric M3 super saloon

The next M3 will come with all-electric power
29 Nov 2023
Best new cars coming in 2024
Best new cars coming in 2024 - header image
Best cars & vans

Best new cars coming in 2024

There are some big new models from the likes of Audi, BMW, Citroen, Ford, MINI, Skoda and more on the way in 2024
20 Nov 2023
Hands off: BMW 7 Series to gain Level 3 autonomous driving
BMW 7 Series front cornering roundabout
News

Hands off: BMW 7 Series to gain Level 3 autonomous driving

Next level of autonomous driving will allow 7 Series drivers to edit emails and stream videos
10 Nov 2023
2024 BMW i4 almost ready to take the fight to new Tesla Model 3
Facelifted BMW i4 - front tracking
News

2024 BMW i4 almost ready to take the fight to new Tesla Model 3

Our first look at the updated i4 suggests BMW’s electric exec could soon be revealed
4 Oct 2023

Most Popular

‘Forget leasing a car, a cut-price van should be your next everyday vehicle’
Opinion - Fiat Scudo
Opinion

‘Forget leasing a car, a cut-price van should be your next everyday vehicle’

With some huge savings to be had, Mike Rutherford thinks a van could be the perfect vehicle
3 Dec 2023
Deal of the Day: Spacious Skoda Superb is a peerless estate for £223 a month
Skoda Superb Estate - front tracking
News

Deal of the Day: Spacious Skoda Superb is a peerless estate for £223 a month

The Superb is one of our favourite estates and our Deal of the Day for Monday 4 December
4 Dec 2023
New Renault 5: price, specs, launch and on sale dates
Renault 5 EV concept at 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed
News

New Renault 5: price, specs, launch and on sale dates

Renault’s reborn Renault 5 will start from €25,000 in Europe, suggesting a circa-£30k price in the UK. It's due on sale in the summer of 2024. Here's …
1 Dec 2023