Is Navigation necessary?

[basscadet]

My last 3 cars have had nav systems and I think I have used it a total of 5 times...my preference is to use Google Navigation on my phone as it's much easier to search for addresses with that.

My question is, if i opt to NOT get the Navigation in the M3 does the Smartphone/iDrive experience suffer? Is it a smaller, lower-quality screen, etc? Having a good iPhone experience is paramount for me.

[Sedan_Clan]

For me, YES! I use mine often


P.S. I believe Navigation is standard in the new M3/M4. I don't think you'll have the option NOT to get it.

[paddy335]

No.....but its a habit I've got into mainly so I can monitor km's to go, time to destination etc tec - geeking out basically

[templarklimek]

Unfortunately, Nav is usually tied into a package of other options that you do want. Enhanced M mode comes to mind or some sound options too.

I use my phone as well, but I want these other options so nav is included.

[ersin]

Originally Posted by Sedan_Clan

P.S. I believe Navigation is standard in the new M3/M4. I don't think you'll have the option NOT to get it.

I guess too many previous M3 owners were getting lost.


Cheers.

[Jockey]

No, Google maps on my phone connected by bluetooth and piping instructions through the stereo does it for me

[Sedan_Clan]

Originally Posted by ersin

I guess too many previous M3 owners were getting lost.


Cheers.

Plausible!


I think BMW chose to go this route for resale purposes, but it doesn't bother me. I don't buy cars without navigation systems anyway.

[Suave]

I find my iphone Nav working through the Bluetooth works flawlessly to get me around. However when you want to take a call or do something else it becomes an issue especially in my line of work. In the end it's a non starter as it will be standard and necessary component for other car systems

[Needsdecaf]

IF Nav is not standard, then yes, the iDrive screen will be much smaller. And likely a poorer interface with the iphone.

[basscadet]

So do we not know if Navigation is standard or not? It is listed as an option?

[pokerface]

Integrated /standard NAV I don't mind but would like to see the maps updated OTA like you would on a smartphone. Running around with once yearly disc updates is old school (pun intended)

[absoluteis350]

YES - even if you don't use the Navigation function, the map is indispensable when trying to route around rush hour traffic, trying to get to a kids birthday party, or trying to take your kids to a soccer field you have never been to.

[Ezio]

navs are way more that navigation. in fact if all navs did was just help you with directions they would be way less appealing.

ya i barely use the directions part. but i love everything else. not to mention they looks nice.

[JoeFromPA]

The f30 uses a slightly smaller and slightly less nice screen on non-nav systems. Almost all functionality is retained, but not all.

In the end, if you have to option up to Navigation and whatever comes with it, you've got to weigh paying ~$2,500-$3k for those few options you might use and weigh whether or not the base car simply isn't as fun without them.

[LDSM]

I did not opt for the navigation in my f30 and I wish I did.

I would like the nicer screen, and although I use my iphone for directions, having a full map on screen makes it much easier to find specific streets for those times when you're not lost, but just want to find a cross street.

[gee-m-w]

Originally Posted by elevenfive

I did not opt for the navigation in my f30 and I wish I did.

I would like the nicer screen, and although I use my iphone for directions, having a full map on screen makes it much easier to find specific streets for those times when you're not lost, but just want to find a cross street.

I rented an F30 328i with the base iDrive and the nav screen was unusable. You have to get the technology package on the regular 3 to get the enhanced display and inputs.

The good nav is a 100% option on the M3/M4, per the ordering guide. You can add some enhanced bluetooth package for about $250.

[dhoggm3]

iMaps nav on my iPhone got me lost yet again today. BMW's isn't great but it's tons better than Apple's is right now. Glad it's standard on the new M's!

[turbolag]

Personally, I like it on my E90. It's covered, the screen is large, and I don't need to attach my phone/gps to anything.

All I want is a HUD with Nav...

[Kaxon]

Personally I think it's a giant ripoff when they charge ~$2k for the option and the functionality is worse than your average cellphone. So no, I don't get nav if I can avoid it.

[DonC]

There are areas that have no cell service - no Google maps.

[Chill72]

YES

[jbockrd]

Can't imagine a high end car like this without it