Is BMW Connected Drive Worth the Cost? Our In-Depth Review

BMW’s ConnectedDrive system offers a suite of high-tech features that aim to enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment in BMW vehicles. But with subscription prices starting at just $80 per year, is ConnectedDrive ultimately worth the additional cost?

In this detailed review, we’ll look at what BMW ConnectedDrive offers, examine the subscription plans and pricing, and provide key considerations to help you determine if it’s a valuable upgrade for your BMW.

What Does BMW ConnectedDrive Include?

BMW ConnectedDrive is a set of technology features and services that focuses on connectivity and interaction between the driver, vehicle, and environment. At its core, ConnectedDrive aims to utilize technology to optimize and personalize the driving experience.

There are three main aspects to BMW ConnectedDrive:

Driver assistance systems – These advanced safety technologies aid the driver by providing warnings about potential hazards or taking action if needed. Examples include lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, automatic high beam control, and more.

Comfort, infotainment and navigation – This encompasses the onboard information, communication, and entertainment systems. Things like the iDrive interface, built-in navigation, voice control, and integration with smartphones and apps.

ConnectedDrive Services – These are additional services that provide monitoring, security, and access to your BMW from anywhere. More on these unique services shortly.

Some of the most popular and useful ConnectedDrive features include:

• BMW Assist eCall – Automatically contacts emergency services if an airbag deploys. Provides info on the car’s location and which safety systems activated.
• BMW Teleservices – Sends service-related vehicle data to your preferred BMW center to proactively identify maintenance needs and schedule service visits.
• Remote Services – Use the BMW Connected app to lock/unlock your car, sound the horn, flash lights, view vehicle status info, and more all remotely.
• Real Time Traffic Information – Get continuously updated traffic data including congestion, accidents, and other road hazards.
• Concierge Services – 24/7 access to a personal concierge who can provide directions, hotel recommendations, and more helpful information.
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto – Seamless integration and use of iPhone and Android apps through the iDrive display and voice control.
• Connected Music – Streaming services like Spotify can be accessed directly through the vehicle. Ignore distracting phones and drive safely while enjoying music, podcasts and more.
• Remote Software Upgrades – Software updates can be sent over-the-air to keep your BMW’s technology current. No need to visit the dealership.

So in summary, BMW ConnectedDrive encompasses a wide array of safety, navigation, entertainment and convenience features aimed at enhancing the driving experience through increased intelligence, interaction and connectivity.

How Much Does BMW ConnectedDrive Cost?

BMW offers ConnectedDrive as a subscription service that must be renewed annually. This allows them to cover the significant backend costs required to operate this ecosystem of connected features and services.

There are two main ConnectedDrive subscription packages to choose from:

Basic ConnectedDrive Subscription

• $80/year
• Includes basic remote services like car finder, remote door lock/unlock, vehicle status reports
• Adds teleservices, automatic collision notification and emergency calling

Full ConnectedDrive Subscription

• $170/year
• Builds on the Basic subscription
• Adds real-time traffic alerts, online news and weather, BMW Online concierge, personalized music streaming, and Apple CarPlay integration

So what does this mean in terms of adding ConnectedDrive to your new or existing BMW vehicle?

For new BMW vehicles: Most models have the ConnectedDrive Basic Plan standard for the first 3 years. But after the initial period ends, you’ll need to pay to renew access to the basic services. The more advanced features like CarPlay require paying for the Full Plan from the beginning.

For used BMW vehicles: You’ll likely have to purchase a ConnectedDrive subscription if the original plan has lapsed. Check what the current owner has active to see what level of renewal is required.

In addition to the recurring subscription fees, adding options like Apple CarPlay does come with a one-time activation cost:

• Apple CarPlay Activation: $300
• Android Auto Activation: $300
• Amazon Alexa Activation: $250

So in total, you’re looking at roughly $80 – $170 per year plus a one-time fee of $250 – $300 to access the full breadth of ConnectedDrive features.

While not cheap, many BMW owners feel the connectivity, entertainment, and security benefits are worthwhile, especially if you drive frequently. But let’s look at some of the key benefits to help you decide if it’s worth the cost.

Key Benefits of BMW ConnectedDrive

Enhanced Safety and Security

Several BMW ConnectedDrive features actively monitor your vehicle’s status and surroundings to provide an added layer of safety and security.

Automatic Collision Notification and Emergency Calling

If an airbag deploys, your BMW will automatically send emergency services your exact GPS location and vehicle details so they can respond quickly. During an emergency call, audio and verbal communication is also established for speaking directly with responders.

This has the potential to save lives in serious collisions by immediately alerting emergency services and providing critical details like your location.

BMW Roadside Assistance

You have direct 24/7 access to roadside assistance through BMW ConnectedDrive. If you have issues like a dead battery, flat tire, or lock-out, just press the SOS button in your BMW and help will be on the way.

Stolen Vehicle Recovery

If your BMW is stolen, BMW Assist can pinpoint your vehicle’s location and work with authorities to help recover it as quickly as possible. The sooner they can locate it, the better the chances of getting your vehicle back undamaged.

Car Health Status Reports

ConnectedDrive will monitor your BMW’s condition and let you know if issues like low oil level, low tire pressure, or upcoming service needs are detected. This allows you to proactively address problems before they become serious.

Added Convenience Through Remote Access

The BMW Connected app provides convenient remote access to your vehicle from anywhere.

Lock/Unlock Doors

If you forgot to lock your car, you can easily do so with just a few taps in the app no matter where you are. You can also unlock it when approaching so you don’t need to dig for your keys.

Vehicle Finder

Can’t remember exactly where you parked? Use the app to sound your BMW’s horn and flash its lights so you can quickly locate it.

Send-to-Car Navigation

You can plan a trip on your phone through the app and seamlessly send the destination to your BMW’s navigation system. When you start your car, directions will automatically be shown on your vehicle’s display, saving you time programming the address manually.

Real-Time Vehicle Status

Check your car’s current fuel level, battery level, mileage, window/door status, and service info anytime through the app. No need to go out and check.

Access to Useful Real-Time Information

BMW ConnectedDrive keeps you continuously updated on useful information that can positively impact your drive.

Real-Time Traffic Alerts

Get traffic updates on congestion, accidents, construction zones, and other road hazards directly on your vehicle’s navigation map. This allows you to avoid delays by adjusting your route accordingly. Traffic incidents are displayed as icons on the map so you can quickly identify problem areas.

Gas Station Locations and Prices

When you’re getting low on fuel, easily find and compare nearby gas station prices using ConnectedDrive. Prices are updated in real-time.

Weather Forecasts

Stay updated on changing weather that could affect road conditions. Hazardous weather warnings are provided.

News and Interests

Get news headlines and stories on topics you’re interested in delivered right to your BMW’s display screen so you can stay informed.

Seamless Smartphone Connectivity

ConnectedDrive makes accessing content from your iPhone or Android device quick, easy and hands-free.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration

CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to extend the apps and features on your smartphone to your BMW’s central display. You can access maps, music, messages, phone calls, podcasts, audiobooks and more. Just plug your phone into the USB port and content will be mirrored on the larger screen.

This is safer than looking at and handling your device while driving. You can use voice commands for many features to keep focus on the road.

Streaming Music Services

ConnectedDrive allows you to login to streaming accounts like Spotify, Pandora, TuneIn radio and play music directly through the car’s audio system and controls. Just connect your phone via Bluetooth or USB and access all your playlists, stations and more.

No need for the distraction of handling your smartphone while driving. Everything can be easily controlled from your BMW’s iDrive interface.

Remote Software Updates

This great benefit helps future-proof your investment by keeping your BMW’s technology current.

Over-the-Air Software Updates

ConnectedDrive allows your BMW to receive important software updates wirelessly over the internet. No need to go into the dealership.

You’ll get notified when an update is available. It then gets sent to your car overnight or while you’re at work when not in use. Installation happens automatically.

This keeps all the vehicle’s systems, electronics and infotainment operating on the latest software version without you needing to lift a finger. Your BMW will feel like it’s continuously getting better.

Potential Downsides to Consider

While the benefits are compelling, there are some potential downsides to weigh when deciding if BMW ConnectedDrive is worth it for you.

Recurring Subscription Cost

While the convenience and features are extensive, the need to pay annual subscription fees can add to the overall cost of ownership, especially if you keep the vehicle long term. For budget-focused buyers, this may not align with their needs.

App and Connectivity Issues

Like any app or connected system, BMW’s suite of services is not 100% foolproof. You may occasionally encounter some lag or bugs with things like the remote app connectivity. For the tech averse, this could be frustrating. Updates usually address issues quickly however.

Ongoing Software Updates

While a benefit on one hand, the need to continually install software updates may be undesirable to some. You lose the set-it-and-forget-it nature of vehicles in the past. And notifications to install updates could get annoying if too frequent.

Potential Future Glitches

On rare occasions, problems with connectivity systems get widespread press when major issues occur across a fleet of vehicles. For example, Toyota had a recall over issues with their Entune App Suite disconnecting Bluetooth devices. So far BMW has avoided any major defects, but there’s always potential as technology gets more complex.

Privacy Concerns

Some drivers may be uncomfortable with the extent of data connectivity in modern vehicles, as companies can collect info on your driving habits, location, vehicle use, and more. There are usually protections and permissions in place to prevent misuse of data, but concerns remain for some.

Is BMW ConnectedDrive Worth the Cost?

Whether BMW ConnectedDrive is “worth it” comes down to your individual needs and budget. Weigh the pros and cons highlighted above.

Here are some final recommendations on getting value from your ConnectedDrive subscription:

For safety-focused drivers, the peace of mind provided by automatic collision notifications, emergency calling, and roadside assistance is often worth the cost alone. These critical features can truly save lives.

For convenience-lovers, the remote vehicle access and services enabled through the app provide tons of useful functionality and can make your life easier.

For tech-savvy BMW fans, the latest technology like CarPlay, remapping buttons, and remote upgrades will help you fully utilize your Ultimate Driving Machine.

For budget-conscious buyers, you can likely skip ConnectedDrive without too much compromise. But you may end up missing key features like navigation and streaming music.

Ultimately, ConnectedDrive aims to enhance your BMW experience through increased safety, entertainment, and convenience. For those who drive frequently and want to get the most out of BMW’s premium technology, the subscription cost is usually money well spent.