GADGET WARS: In-Car Navigation Vs. Smartphones, WHICH Do YOU Use And WHY?

In the new age of smartphones, it seems almost pointless to get an in-car navigation unit. Let's face it, with the amount of technology packed into something you can fit into the palm of your hand, it's pretty hard to add on another option — and cost — onto your new purchase when you can just use the good you already have invested in.

Or is there?

With an in-car unit you get all of the sexy graphics, a HUGE screen and a lot of automakers are even building their systems to have downloadable apps.

Take, for example, Lexus' Enform that has several apps that cover the essentials: movies, restaurants, internet radio, etc. It also adds value so when you decide you've had enough fun with your ride, you have a bit of an advantage. However there is that large sum at the end of the day AND you can't take it with you when you leave.

And, likely you'll already have a smartphone to begin with.

That said, there's an argument for both sides, BUT WHICH do YOU use? A smartphone OR an in-car nav unit?

jeffgall - 4/27/2013 7:51:30 AM

+3 Boost

Use my Droid Razr HD. Google maps with satellite view is amazing, easier to use than most built in systems, and free. Plus, since I lease, spending more on a nav system seems like a waste of money.

Agent00R - 4/27/2013 8:14:25 AM

0 Boost

Well said, sir.

I use neither. Typically I know where I am going.

BUT if things get hairy I have navigation running off my Apple iPhone 5.

jeffgall - 4/27/2013 9:12:12 AM

+3 Boost

Plus I only use nav once or twice a month.

Also, why are the systems so expensive? My A4 already has the a large LCD screen, so all they really need to add is the GPS radio and a solid state memory large enough to store the map info. There is no way that cost $1000 to $2000. If Nav was $500 or less, then I would see the value.

An even better solution would be a way for the phone to broadcast the Nav display to the car display.

2ndbimmer - 4/27/2013 10:34:12 AM

+2 Boost

I didnt think I needed the nav, but the BMW I have had the nav in it. So, the hard drive full of music, larger screen display, traffic information, HD screen, multiple split screen options, great voice recognition, APPS from my iPhone sync, the text message and email speak is great as well.
I really dont need it, but its nice to have!
At least on the BMW you can control all functions while driving, unlike lexus, infiniti and acura. Plus, you dont need a satellite radio subscription for traffic updates.

t_bone - 4/27/2013 11:02:10 AM

+2 Boost

I hate the wires on a portable GPS (which you have to have after the sun cooks the LiPo battery during the first few months), but love everything else about them.