Sometimes I feel as though I'm the only one who doesn't understand this new-found fascination so many seem to have with factory or aftermarket navigation units. Spending hundreds or thousands of dollars to have what is essentially a glorified $3 Rand McNally map makes little sense to me. I mean, sure they're hard to fold and they don't have the "bling" factor, but they've gotten the job done for many years prior to now, have they not? We've even got free sites like mapquest which were previously unavailable that provide turn by turn directions to wherever you want to go. Are people now getting lost at such a high rate that spending this kind of money seems like a viable alternative or is this just another fad which will eventually cool down and die out?

 

You can also just ask for directions from a local... I seem to be able to get to where I'm going with a Nav system.

 

On the fly directions without you looking have their merits, but I prefer aftermarket units you can take out of the car to built-in nav.

 

They are really helpful in certain places...for example, San Fran. Maps can't tell you all the weird things like a street that goes along and suddenly becomes a one way street in the opposite direction. That happened to me before...frustrating!! I've also stopped to ask for directions on multiple occasions, and it is astonishingly difficult to find people who speak English (no offense intended, just my real experience there) on the streets. Nav is a great tool in SF for those who do not live there.

 

I think Nav systems are great for people who travel. Like Station said, if you are new to a big city then you can get around with a Nav or you risk getting really lost. Maps don't give detailed info. Nav's like the Nuvi that are portable are good for walking around new places. They work in Europe too if you travel.

 

If you live in a metropolitan area, navigation systems are very helpful.

And it isnt a fad. More and more cars are available with Navi systems. Almost every Honda and Acura can be had with Navi.

And aftermarket market units are getting cheaper and cheaper.

Nav is here to stay.

 

nav systems suck!!! it routed a trip from Richmond to Showshoe, WV and it took 4 hours.. normal i guess. it routed a different road back, which took 5 and a 1/2 hours. we didn't notice until we were too far into the journey... blahhhhh.

 

I'm not doubting their inherent abilities, I'm just wondering why people feel they need these ultra-expensive maps. I drive quite a bit and if my destination is foreign to me, I usually have little to no trouble locating it with the free services out there.

Test drove a new Civic w/ Nav for my girlfriend a few months ago and the unit was very cool, no doubt. I would just see myself having a major case of buyers remorse after the wow factor wore off two days later .

 

I don't get this new car thing. Horses worked just fine until we got cars. Sure, they don't do 70 mph but they are more reliable and they're friendly too, and you didn't get speeding tickets while going to work or the store.

 

I carry both in my car. A nav system and maps from AAA. The maps are hardly ever used.