There are good aftermarket navigators that do everything factory-installed models do, if not more, and they cost a fraction of the price. Want navigation on your BMW 3 Series? Prepare to cough up an extra $2,100.
Meanwhile you can get Magellan's Maestro 4050 portable navigation unit for $700. The Maestro has voice recognition and live traffic updates and acts as a Bluetooth speakerphone for your mobile. It requires no installation (save a suction cup or sticker), so you can swap it between cars or lend it to friends and family. And the Maestro 4050 is a top-of-the-line model. You can get a perfectly decent unit (such as the TomTom One) for around $300.
The Verdict: Buy aftermarket. Blow the difference on a great road trip, knowing you won't get lost.
