I'm really undecided about getting the built in nav vs an aftermarket one. One thing that I couldn't find on the mini website or anywhere else is whether the live traffic updates are for the life time of the car or for a limited time. Does anyone know the answer to this?

 

check out this article:
http://www.technoride.com/article/MI.../201069_2.aspx

 

I emailed MINIUSA with my question and this is the reply I got from them:

There is no activation fee or recurring monthly charges for this system. The cost to provide RTTI is included in the navigation system price. The RTTI service will be provided for a minimum of 4 years from the purchase or lease of your MINI. After the four year term, the service will be provided as long as we continue our contractual relationship with the RTTI service provider.

New navigation software can be obtained through Navteq. You may contact Navteq at 888-628-6277 or through their website at www.navteq.com for availability and pricing information.

 

Az they dont like the Nav very much...

 

Do you guys feel that the built-in nav was worth it over an after market one?

 

Yes.

 

Do you think it will still be worth it 4 or 6 years down the road when it's totally out of date? Or when the DVD ( I haven't had much luck with DVD players ) drive breaks after warrenty and it costs probably more than $2100 to get it replaced with probaby what will be an outdated navigation unit by that time? Since I'm planning on keeping the MINI for a while those are my biggest concerns now so I'm just wondering what others think.

LynnEl did you get your MINI and test out the nav system?

 

Sounds like you've already made up your mind. Go with your gut.

 

For me, the biggest plus of the built-in nav was the way it's integrated into the dinner-plate sized speedo, making a nice display that everyone in the car can see. Without it, my personal feeling is that the speedo is just too big. YMMV.

 

I agree, and it's one of the reasons I shelled out the big bucks to buy the navigation system. It seems that people that ordered the system, both here and in the U.K., generally like it. Other than its lacking the British voice.

 

Well no not really. I have equal concerns about the after market one. It being such an easy smash and grab item, so i'll always have to deal with putting it in the glove box. Not being intergrated into the car, wires sticking out.

The other features offered by the built-in nav system can be helpful too. Although I don't totally like the center console I think the speedo around the nav system doesn't look all that great either It doesn't keep a consistant look with the rest of the car. And that big red needle going around like that is kind of goofy IMO.

I guess I just don't want to have any regrets once i spend my 30K on this car and this is the one thing that's keeping me from ordering it. Thanks for all your info guys.

 

It's on the boat on the way over. So, no, not yet.