Prius III NAV or no NAV? - Audio USB Options?

Toyota NAVI is OK as a navigation system. It works fairly well (IF you read the owner's manual about how to use it), but the database is outdated...and this is where a portable Garmin is far superior. So, for local trips, i use the NAVI (if destination is on the database), but for longer trips, i bring along my Garmin Nuvi.

BUT, for me, i did not buy the NAVI solely for the navigation. For me, the Toyota NAVI is a must-have because:

1. Backup camera...yes, the Prius is small, but i also have small hyper-active toddlers running around! It does make backing up so easy!

2. Phonebook download. This is great because you can download your phone's data into the system...and then setup "speed dial". This way, you can call people with a few touches on the screen while driving.

3. USB. I have had Ipod Touch (3G and 4G)...and i love it! Never had much of an issue hooking up. It works as advertised...charges your Ipod and you can play songs via playlist, artists, etc..

4. Navigation.

5. BT Audio streaming. Not sure if this is on non-JBL system, but it is a useful tool if you later on switch to an Android phone. The USB does not work well with Android phones...so, you have to rely on BT Audio Streaming to play music.

6. Well, my Adv Tech Pkg needs to have it.

For me, reasons 1-3 would seal the deal, even if i did not have ATP.

 

I totally agree with Thai, the Nav is ok but the additional benefits are worth it. I have a Droid phone and that gps is more accurate. USB & Bluetooth phonebook/streaming are very cool. I'm a Zune user so I don't get the benefit or problem of it integrating with the display, it just doesnt.

 

I agree with the first two posts. There are a number of picky people who complain about the NAV, but to not have cords and suction cups and components as theft-bait hanging around are all advantages of the NAV. And the back-up camera is really nice.

I've had no problems with the USB and Ipod, and I didn't think I'd care about Blue Tooth, but after I got it, it was great.

 

Just be sure it's not an older model Ipod Shuffle - apparently it won't work with the vehicle's interface.

The Nav is o.kay. I prefer the look of it in the dash compared to the non-navi dash, but the user friendliness is poor. I've been misdirected more times with it than without.