Mercedes-Benz will begin offering HD Radio as part of the infotainment systems in its newest diesel models, the R320, ML320 and GL320 BlueTecs, sold in the U.S.
Mercedes joins BMW — which offers HD-R across its product line — and Jaguar among luxury vehicles offering HD Radio.
HD Radio is an option, as is Sirius Satellite Radio.
Integrated features will include a hand-free system based on Bluetooth technology, and an Aux-In connection for mobile audio units such as an iPod.
Mercedes-Benz says there’s a choice of three media interface units, all of them with a color display, a twin tuner for improved radio reception, speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies and a Bluetooth interface which enables a mobile phone to be wirelessly linked to the hands-free system.
The BlueTec SUVs are diesel-powered; they’ll be available in the U.S. this fall.
