Thanks for the solid tip on the console box. It occurred to me though that perhaps I can avoid it all together hopefully.

I posed this same question to the Monser iCruze help folks via web submission and haven't heard back yet. If I hear from them before anyone here, I'll post the reply.

Here's the question: Is there a way to hook up the iCruze interface directly the existing CD controller wiring in the trunk? (with an additional interface cable/module perhaps? - I'll buy whatever if it's possible)

Ideally, the most non-invasive way to do this would be to hook the iCruze interface directly to the CD changer cable found in the rear cargo area. Is that cable present if there isn's a stock CD changer installed? I know it was on my VW, and I haven't had a chance to go hunting yet in the back of the wagon. That way I can try to get all of it installed and tucked behind the right-side cargo area storage panel (where the first aid kit is). We've got an older iPod with battery issues (gift - no receipt so we can't claim the iPod battery recall), and I'd like to just fill it with tunes and install it back there and forget about it (iCruze provides power).

This method also totally avoids any shenanigans pulling the head unit out of the dash, and makes any MB wagon owner's life very easy.