So I'm new to the BMW scene. I'm meeting with the dealer this weekend to finalize the options on my 330xi. Can't make up my mind on the nav system though. I've used Garmin for the past couple years, and love it. I just don't think I want the clutter on the dash anymore. Am I going to be giving up a lot of functionality going with the nav system? My biggest concerns is POIs. Does the nav system have the restaraunts, gas stations, and other POIs pretty well covered or will I be disappointed.  I'm looking for some feedback and some experience with the nav from you folks that have been using it. I'd appreciate the help!!! |
| Reply » To Nav or Not to Nav |
The Mark IV DVD based system is pretty good. It's not as good as some stand alone units, but it seems to have all the major POIs listed, and there are annual DVD updates available from the dealer or you can buy them a little cheaper from Navteq directly. In any case, I wouldn't think of buying a BMW without the nav. It just makes the car that much better and the convenience of having it is great if you travel to unfamiliar areas often.
|
| Reply » To Nav or Not to Nav |
I think iDrive is worth $1000 all by itself without nav. So I would get nav. A lot of other benefits beyond nav make it worth while.
|
| Reply » To Nav or Not to Nav |
I have a 2006 330Ci with NAV as well as a Garmin StreetPilot III (with autorouting capability).
Pros for NAV:
Much faster route computation time
Larger screen
Built into dash, less clutter
Improved GPS signal reception (compared to SP III on-dash)
Pros for Streetpilot III:
Much more extensive feature set
More intuitive user interface (and the voice volume control actually works).
Better zoom/scroll capability
More customizable to your tastes
Can take it on trips w/o you car
Convenient firmware updates
The newer Garmins like the 2610/2620 diminish some of the advantages of the NAV, and add an easy touch-screen interface. The 2720/2820 go even further with real-time road congestion updates, allowing it to route around traffic jams, accidents, and weather-related problems.
If I were to choose again, I'd take the 2720/2820 over NAV. Easy.
|
| Reply » To Nav or Not to Nav |
Later SPs (such as the 2610) are MUCH faster processors/processing. New 27xx series have larger screens. Later models have improved GPS reception and the ability to use external antenna. And even better user interfaces with touch screen and IR remote.
Only downside is not integrated.
|
| Reply » To Nav or Not to Nav |
Agreed, on all counts. The SP III can also take an external antenna to improve reception - but at the expense of more clutter.
Another difference is that NAV is more "chatty" than it needs to be IMO, which can get a bit tiresome when driving through dense metro areas. For example, it announces all upcoming freeway interchanges. Garmin only announces freeway interchanges when a transition is required from the current one to another.
|
Page 1 of 4 |
Menu
To Nav or Not to Nav