A while back we brought you a complaint we had with Mercedes not offering iPod integration in all of their models (you can find our long-winded rant here).

Our complaint was based on the fact that although Mercedes offers iPod integration in many of their vehicles, several models, including the S-Class, SL-Class, and CL-Class, do not offer this feature.

Mercedes has taken an extremely small step in the right direction today, announcing that they will extend iPod integration to the 2006 CLK coupes.  To kick off the event, the first 2,300 model year 2006 CLK350 and CLK500 coupes that Mercedes produces will have iPod integration and a silver iPod mini added, at no additional cost.

I think it's great Mercedes is promoting iPod integration in the CLK, but what about the other models?  Would it really be that difficult to add it to the entire lineup?  Even if it is that difficult, do it anyways, because we deserve it dammit.

You can check out Mercedes' full iPod integration press release below.  And by the way - when Mercedes sees the error of their ways and decides to add iPod integration to all their models, all you music lovers know who to thank.


OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE


MERCEDES-BENZ USA EXPANDS IPOD INTEGRATION KIT AVAILABILITY

MONTVALE, NJ — Today Mercedes-Benz announced the first 2,300 model year 2006 CLK350 and CLK500 coupes produced will be equipped with an iPod integration kit and a 4GB silver iPod Mini without additional charge. 
In January of this year, Mercedes-Benz USA and Apple® announced the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, making Mercedes-Benz the first automaker to provide full iPod music navigation for drivers to listen to their entire iPod music collection through the Mercedes-Benz audio system, as well as select their music using artist, album or playlist with the multifunction controls on the steering wheel and the integrated multifunction display in their instrument cluster.

The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz debuted this April in the U.S. with the all-new 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class.  This promotion celebrates the first time availability of the iPod integration package on the model year 2006 CLK coupe and highlights Mercedes-Benz’ commitment to offering innovative, relevant entertainment options to its customers.

The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz provides outstanding sound quality while charging the iPod, and conveniently connects and stores in the glove compartment. The solution also allows the driver to "See What You're Hearing" with music title or playlist information shown on the integrated multifunction display in the instrument cluster. Drivers will be able to easily access their entire iPod music library, shuffle songs and skip between tracks and playlists.

Copyright © 2005, Mercedes-Benz USA