New to BMW

[Paul04]

My wife and I are coming off a lease of an Infiniti I30 and we are looking at the BMW 330CI and BMW XI. My wife wants the navigation system and we are having a hek of a time trying to find a certified vehicle that has a NAV system installed. Would you recommend buying a vehicle and adding an aftermarket NAV system or buy new?

[rgzimmer]

I opted not to get the Nav on my car and it's probably my only regret now that I have gone on a couple of road trips. I have looked at some of the portable nav systems as well as the ones that would replace the head unit in the car and I don't really want either. The portable systems all have tiny screens and the replacement head units mess up the aesthetics in the car, but cost about the same price as the OEM Nav.

The major benefit to aftermarket is that they have more features than the OEM, but the OEM looks nice and has all the basic functionality that you need. Of course, not having the system means I'm not the best qualified to answer, but I thought I'd share my disappointment with not geting it.

[Silver4evr]

I didn't get the NAV because I wanted to buy a high end after market with more features, is user upgradeable, is portable and can be used in different cars or other outdoor situations.

[Paul04]

Thanks for the information. I was thinking about an aftermarket NAV as I stated but will that negate the BMW warranty? A few folks stated it wasn't the best move. I guess I have to hold out and get the NAV. They are talking about 8 to 10weeks for Production. I cannot locate a 330XI with NAV. Thanks again!

[pmolfese]

Actually if you already have a laptop - you can just buy a GPS unit that plugs into it through the USB port. Then your entire laptop screen is the GPS. Not the perfect solution - but for many people who travel everywhere with their laptops - you might as well. Checkout http://www.delorme.com/earthmate/