Mercedes-Benz has launched a new telematics service to replace their now 10-year old Tele Aid. The new system, called mbrace, adds features, including giving iPhone and BlackBerry users the ability to remotely unlock or lock their vehicles and help find their way back to their car using a map displayed on their smartphones. (See our reviews of iPhone and other smart phone navigation apps.) 
 
Like other telematics services, including Tele Aid and the more widely known OnStar for General Motors vehicles, mbrace uses a combination of cellular and computing technology to offer subscribers safety and security features including roadside assistance, stolen vehicle notification, and emergency help. The system will also automatically call an emergency response center after a crash and send the car’s GPS coordinates to aid first responders in locating it. A call center representative then stays on the line until help arrives.  
 
A premium level of service called mbrace PLUS adds weather and traffic information, live help with directions, and a concierge service for restaurant reservations and locating other stores and services.
 
Mbrace is available on all new Mercedes-Benz models, and a complimentary six month subscription is included with all new purchased or leased vehicles. After that, a subscription will run $280 annually. Subscribers can add the premium PLUS services for $20 per month or subscribe for a total of $520 per year.   

Mercedes-Benz and partner Hughes Telematics promise to add more connected features to mbrace in the future, but there’s no word yet on what those might be.

For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings, first looks, and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

—Jim Travers