I am using it with a BMW 320d with no iDrive, and it works fine. I can control the iPod from the car stereo, browsing play lists. The cable is short so cable + iPod can remain in the armrest. I find it a rip off that, after spending 300 EUR for a USB interface in the car, one also has to buy a specific cable to connect the iPod to it; at least this cable is cheaper than the "original" BWM, and can be easily obtained from Amazon.