I am considering buying a new Superb iV with either Style or L&K trim levels. I am not a fan of the Sportline look so that's not an option.

 

My problem is that I am put back by the touch-only user interface of the Columbus MIB3 infotainment system, which is forced on by the 2 trim levels I am considering. I think I would much more prefer the Amundsen/Bolero MIB3 with their 2 buttons/knobs, but those models are only available for the Ambition or Sportline trims, none of which I would want to get.

 

I am aware of some disadvantages of the Amundsen/Bolero MIB3, e.g. Bolero doesn't have navigation unlocked by default, but that's not a factor for me as I don't plan to use the built-in navigation or any of the "smart" media functions. At most the infotainment system will either be used to control the local radio stations, to display Android Auto from my phone, or to display the parking view.

 

I would like to know if technically it is feasible to replace the Columbus MIB3 with Amundsen/Bolero MIB3, and I'd like to further answer the following questions:

1. How complex would the change be?

2. What features (if any) would I be losing?

3. Assuming the change is done by a Skoda authorized shop, would this change affect the car's warranty?

 

Thanks.

For the literal thousands of pounds this would cost you... its not worth it, for a downgrade???

You'll probably find it's not possible.

 

If you're buying new, you'll get the new steering wheel with scroll wheel for the volume - It works brilliantly, I've not used the touch screen volume button ever

Edited 4 February, 20224 yr by Patent

If it's anything like mib2 then the screens could be interchangeable. Find someone with an Amundsen who wants the Columbus screen and swap.

4 hours ago, ApertureS said:

For the literal thousands of pounds this would cost you... its not worth it, for a downgrade???

I agree. You'll pay your downgrade twice.

- Firstly to make the swap.

- Secondly upon car resell.

IMHO, it won't be a good point for you. Buyers should probably be much more interested in a Columbus fitted Mk3, than in a Bolero one, especially for a L&K trim level...

Assuming it works as per my comment above. You shouldn't lose any functions by fitting a very slightly smaller screen. If you were willing to fork out for the purchase then fitting the different screens is trivial should you wish to return to stock when selling. Or leave both screens with the car  as an added extra.

Thanks for all the feedback so far.

 

I have considered just living with the Columbus MIB3, but as I'm easily distracted and annoyed by seemingly small things, I'd rather pay extra to have one less reason to be annoyed every time I sit in the car. Having not explored the 2 options much, I honestly don't get how Skoda views the Columbus MIB3 as a step up from the Amundsen MIB3.

 

Leaving aside considerations about price and whether I should do it or not, I'm interested in finding out:

1. How complex the operation is -- it sounds straightforward, can anyone please confirm for the MIB3 specifically?

2. Feature parity -- it sounds like no features would be lost, can anyone anyone please confirm for the MIB3 specifically?

 

Edited: I can see the ambition trim in the Czech Republic is available with the Amundsen with the IV powerplant. Looks like it should be a relatively straightforward swap

Edited 5 February, 20224 yr by Patent

If you are talking about a straight swap for the whole system (head unit in the glovebox and the central screen) it's not a cheap endeavour. Parts alone for the new mib3 system could easily be £k's. Then you will need to sort the component protection and get it coded for your car. The coding may not have been cracked yet due to how new the system is. I would budget £2500 minimum if willing to source the parts and have someone able to do the coding.

 

If the screen swap works (e.g. many mib2 screens are compatible across the systems within mib2 range) then you may find a screen for £500 or more with no coding required. Coding is only needed for head unit bit screen. At least that's what it was with mib1 and 2.

So it's impossible to swap just the 8 inch Amundsen screen with the 9 Columbus one without coding? or do I need any coding?

Otherwise, do I need to replace the unit in the glove box too?

Edited 7 May, 20251 yr by Benja77