Any thoughts or personal experience with 3rd party Nav systems? Looking to purchase in near future and need some feedback. Need info on mounting, portability, free updates on mapping and POIs and the such...


Garmin

http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/sc/32078943-2-120-0.gif

Any thoughts or personal experience with 3rd party Nav systems? Looking to purchase in near future and need some feedback. Need info on mounting, portability, free updates on mapping and POIs and the such...[/IMG]
The photo you supplied looks to be a Garmin Nuvi 350. It's the one I own and I think it's one fine unit. Very intuitive and easy to use. The price is now much lower than I paid a year ago. I think you can pick it up for around $275.

It does have a few drawbacks. Tell it where you want to go and it will always get you there. Sometimes it will select a route that, you know ahead of time, will be congested. There is not way to reject a route and have the Nuvi 350 select an alternate. Some Garmins will allow you to select a route on your PC and download it into the GPS. This unit will not.

It will only allow you one "via". Some think this is a problem, but I don't. I took a long road trip back in Sept that took me from Pa to Providence, RI, then on to Bar Harbor, Me, then on to Stowe, Vt. I programmed each of my stops ahead of time. This stores the locations into a folder labeled "My Recent Locations". I then selected my next stop from this folder and all is well.

I've never placed the unit into my Malibu. I would think it would be hard to use the suction cup mount because the 'Bu dashboard is so deep. I prefer to mount the unit on the windshield above the center console in my truck. I don't think that's very practical in the 'Bu. I may be looking into the sandbag mount offered by Garmin.

I hope this helps, if you have any specific questions. please ask them.

I realise this is an old thread but I have the Garmin Nüvi 750 and I love it.. It hasn't brought me through a poor route yet and destination input is VERY easy. I'm sure the lower-priced ones are similar too.. I just needed the UK English because I can't understand the US English for the life of me.. especially when it's a computer speaking.

I've also got the Nuvi 350 and have loved the unit and like the poster from a couple replays back the unit is insanely cheaper than the $500+ I paid for it last summer. I did have one problem with the unit that Garmin has gotten a lot of complaints with that the Diode that controls weather the unit uses its internal antenna vs. an external antenna. Mine messed up and the unit kept thinking it was plugged into an external antenna and wouldn't pick up a signal. But a quick call to Garmin not only fixed my problem but sent me a new unit to boot. If your get the unit get the traffic antenna as well about another $150 but it saves you so much hassle.

If your gonna drop bank on one these beauties tho I'd go with a newer model. Most have MSN integrated into the unit to not only show traffic but things like movie times and the best of all GAS PRICES! So drop a few extra bills and get the better one.

I will look into that. Thanks Foxracer186!

I have a TomTom ONE V3. It has been off/wrong several times. Sent me to the wrong end of Waukesha County (Near Milwaukee) this past weekend, but overall not a bad purchase. Can be had at Wal Mart for roughly $150.

I just found the answer to everyones issue in disgust over not offering a in-dash navigation. I am talking about a mount that is designed specifically for the 2008 Malibu. I am not a big fan of mounting the unit on the windshield so I was looking for something that mounted to the dash but because the compartment is there, none of the standard mounts work for me. Here is the link. It is in black leather trim so it won't work for the lighter interiors but I have the ebony/brick so this works great. In addition, it is perfectlly placed. You should not have lean to use the nav. I am going to purchase this with the Panasonic 5 inch nav.

http://www.kudausa.com/kuda_mount_and_holder_for_chevrolet_malibu_since_2 008-6-539.html

That's not too shabby looking. Now if they just offer it in colors to match other interiors..

USA1fan, I just discovered that they have a variety of colors to choose from on the Germany website. http://www.kuda-phonebase.de/start.php?id=2

The USA divisions orders everything from Germany. For your information, proclipusa.com has specific GPS mounting clips which work well with the Kuda mounts.

hey Folks....

On this topic, my wife asked me the other day what I though about buying one of these for her parent's for Christmas. Although I am somewhat opposed, as they are technologically challenged, I don't have much experience with them and wonder how difficult they really are to use?

What would everyone recommend for a people who are technologically challeneged? Note that the "kids" will buying this for them for Christmas so cost is a bit of a concern.

Any suggestions?

As I've already said, I have the Garmin Nuvi (Well I did I just sold it since I use my OnStar).. but it was the best purchase ever. It's EXTREMELY user-friendly.. tell you exactly what to do and provides excellent and easy navigation. The nuvis range from around... $150USD up to around $800USD.. I tried other brands and just wasn't as satisfied as I was with the Garmin.

As I've already said, I have the Garmin Nuvi (Well I did I just sold it since I use my OnStar).. but it was the best purchase ever. It's EXTREMELY user-friendly.. tell you exactly what to do and provides excellent and easy navigation. The nuvis range from around... $150USD up to around $800USD.. I tried other brands and just wasn't as satisfied as I was with the Garmin.
I'll echo Pepsi's comments. They make a fine machine, easy to use and, as far as I'm concerned, they use the best mapping software available. Updated maps can be costly, but it doesn't need to be done every year.

Makes a nice gift.

Thanks for the input folks....I will relay the info to the decision makers (my wife and sister-in-law)

LOL

Ok everyone. Here are pics of my Malibu with a On-Dash Portable GPS with bluetooth device. The mount came from Kuda Usa wrapped in black leather which matches my ebony/brick interior perfectly. The GPS is the Panasonic Strada 5 inch and attaches to the mount with a swivel clip made specifically for this unit. The clip can be found here http://www.kudausa.com/panasonic_strada_cn-gp_50_gps_swivel_&_tilt_mount___adapter_holder-1397.html.

The mount can be found here http://www.kudausa.com/kuda_mount_and_holder_for_chevrolet_malibu_since_2 008-6-539.html#

The total for both items with shipping (56.10 + 29.50 + 9.50).

Thats a nice looking mount.. I wouldnt mind having something like that for my zune

The leather wrapped mount comes in a variety of colors. They should have the colors that match your trim as well.

The leather wrapped mount comes in a variety of colors. They should have the colors that match your trim as well.

Looking at there site the two leather mounts are only in black and I have the Cocoa and cashmere interior

Here is the link to the Kuda Germany site which lists the different leathers available for the mount. Just click on the material list to choose the color of your choice.

http://www.kuda-phonebase.de/start.php?id=2

You may need to contact them directly to place the order with the color you want. Just contact a US rep and they will contact them directly. I have a contact if you would like his number.

Here is the link to the Kuda Germany site which lists the different leathers available for the mount. Just click on the material list to choose the color of your choice.

http://www.kuda-phonebase.de/start.php?id=2

You may need to contact them directly to place the order with the color you want. Just contact a US rep and they will contact them directly. I have a contact if you would like his number.

Yeah that would be awesome!

His name is Dirk Kuhlmann and his email address is dirk@kuda.de.

Dirk Kuhlmann
KUDA PHONEBASE GMBH
DAMME 49401
GERMANY

KUDA USA INC.
3804 CARVER PLACE
IRVING, TX 75061
USA

(866) ITS KUDA Toll Free
(972) 399 7808 Phone
(972) 986 0223 Fax
(817) 881 1774 Cell USA

His name is Dirk Kuhlmann and his email address is dirk@kuda.de.

Dirk Kuhlmann
KUDA PHONEBASE GMBH
DAMME 49401
GERMANY

KUDA USA INC.
3804 CARVER PLACE
IRVING, TX 75061
USA

(866) ITS KUDA Toll Free
(972) 399 7808 Phone
(972) 986 0223 Fax
(817) 881 1774 Cell USA


Thanks! I will give them a ring when I get ready!

Personally I just wanted to say that I am disappointed that the Malibu didn't offer the in dash navigation system, it's not enough to stop me from buying the car (Just like the car not offering a rear armrest) but still annoying.

So I wanted to know which 3rd party system offers the biggest screen? Our other vehicle has a 6.5" screen, I would want something close to that size. I was also thinking about going with an aftermarket in dash system, but don't want to take apart a new vehicle. Plus I worry about losing certain function's (Since so many things are tied into the Radio) and I wanted something that looked factory installed.

I personally think it is way too expensive to add an in-dash unit. I had an in dash in my Charger before I turned it in and got the Malibu LTZ. I to hated not having that option. A member did accomplish it and it is posted somewhere in the forum. He supplied pictures. It is nice but too expensive for my taste. I choose the Panasonic Strada which is a 5 inch portable GPS that I mounted to my dash using a Kuda mount made specifically for the Malibu. I uploaded pictures to this thread. I haven't stumbled across a portable GPS that is larger than 5 inches but I would recommend against one larger because if you mount it to the dash, a 7 inch GPS would obstruct your vision.

I personally think it is way too expensive to add an in-dash unit. I had an in dash in my Charger before I turned it in and got the Malibu LTZ. I to hated not having that option. A member did accomplish it and it is posted somewhere in the forum. He supplied pictures. It is nice but too expensive for my taste. I choose the Panasonic Strada which is a 5 inch portable GPS that I mounted to my dash using a Kuda mount made specifically for the Malibu. I uploaded pictures to this thread. I haven't stumbled across a portable GPS that is larger than 5 inches but I would recommend against one larger because if you mount it to the dash, a 7 inch GPS would obstruct your vision.

After thinking about the complexity of it I wouldn't add an aftermarket in dash unit. I would only go for a factory unit since it was designed to be part of the car. I saw this members Malibu and like it, but again I worry about losing certain functions since the Stereo is so integrated into the cars systems.

I really like the Kuda mount that you have, but it still doesn't hide that dangling wire. Tell me, do they make mounts for the Garmin Nuvi units? Also I noticed these Kuda mounts are mounted to the left, can it be centered between the HVAC vents?

You can center the mount I have. I choose to position to the left so I can easily use the Nav unit. I do not have to move my body and I bearly have to extend my arm. Great placement but your preference. Kuda can get any clip for any GPS. The clip screws into their mount and the GPS slides into the clip. I charge the battery of the GPS over night and remove it in the morning. So, you don't have to worry about the wiring hanging from the dash.

They did not have my clip so I told them the unit I had and they found it at proclip. The charged me their cost for the clip as proclip charges more to the public. So I made out. Hence, if your clip is not listed, they can get it. Garmin is very common so they probably have the clip.

You can center the mount I have. I choose to position to the left so I can easily use the Nav unit. I do not have to move my body and I bearly have to extend my arm. Great placement but your preference. Kuda can get any clip for any GPS. The clip screws into their mount and the GPS slides into the clip. I charge the battery of the GPS over night and remove it in the morning. So, you don't have to worry about the wiring hanging from the dash.

They did not have my clip so I told them the unit I had and they found it at proclip. The charged me their cost for the clip as proclip charges more to the public. So I made out. Hence, if your clip is not listed, they can get it. Garmin is very common so they probably have the clip.

Well I prefer to have it centered because usually when I drive the passenger enters the information. Using the internal battery is a good idea, but it sounds like a hassle. I barely remember to charge my cell phone. :o

The only thing that concerns me though is where the mount is, looks like it could disturb the airflow from the vents.

The vents open freeling. No obstruction at all. The only way you can avoid the wiring is to have a local shop like Circuit City to hard wire it to your car and strategically place the mount were the wires would be covered through the dash. The only issue I have with the mount is the compartment. It is a little tight opening and closing the compartment.

The vents open freeling. No obstruction at all. The only way you can avoid the wiring is to have a local shop like Circuit City to hard wire it to your car and strategically place the mount were the wires would be covered through the dash. The only issue I have with the mount is the compartment. It is a little tight opening and closing the compartment.

I didn't know they could do that, good idea. If they could do that then it would make getting the mount worth it.

Is it just me or does the compartment in the middle of the dash above the air vents just beg to have some sort of pop-up nav system it it? I've thought many times how coold it would be to even rig up one of the portable Garmin/TomTom units up on some sort of hinge system so it would pivot down into position when you opened the compartment. Has anyone seen anything like this?

Yes the dash compartment is begging for a retractable GPS. I thought of two designs which I was going to attempt to prototype but then I said the hell with it. I talked to everyone and searched for countless hours but nothing. The Mazda R8 has a retractable dash kit for its dash compartment. Same concept but nothing for the Malibu.

Yes the dash compartment is begging for a retractable GPS. I thought of two designs which I was going to attempt to prototype but then I said the hell with it. I talked to everyone and searched for countless hours but nothing. The Mazda R8 has a retractable dash kit for its dash compartment. Same concept but nothing for the Malibu.

Shoot - that's too bad. The first time I drove a Malibu (before I was in the market for a new car and didn't know anything about them) was a rental car on our honeymoon. The first time I saw the compartment I thought for sure a pop-up GPS system was an option and if you didn't choose that option, you got the little storage compartment instead. It's just too perfect a spot to be a coincidence I thought.... then when I was in the market for a car I realized there was no GPS option other than over-priced OnStar.

A pop-up system would be ideal (I park in a sketchy neighborhood while I'm at work) and would like a system that would fold down out-of-sight, but even a rather simple mount that just removed the door for that compartment and streamlined the look a little (to make it look a little more OEMish) would be sweet. I'm guessing there's something directly below that compartment in the dash otherwise I'd think someone would have released a kit for a pop-up system by now.

For example:

http://www.mazdaparts.com/ProductDetail.jsp?LISTID=5250000-1159943707

For example:

http://www.mazdaparts.com/ProductDetail.jsp?LISTID=5250000-1159943707

Man that would be sweet.

Would your portable unit fit inside the existing compartment (if you didn't have it in the Kuda mount?

Yes it would if it were to flip open. I played with this a little bit and thought of building myself a mount that would flip open the nav when the compartment opens but then I realized the compartment open while driving takes up too much window. It would be safety hazard.

Is it just me or does the compartment in the middle of the dash above the air vents just beg to have some sort of pop-up nav system it it? I've thought many times how coold it would be to even rig up one of the portable Garmin/TomTom units up on some sort of hinge system so it would pivot down into position when you opened the compartment. Has anyone seen anything like this?

its diffenetly not only you
lol the compartment was the first thing i noticed when i took a look into the malibu shown at the mall, and i thought it as a navigation lol
anyways, id like to be a bit useful over here
have a look at this and and idea will just hit you by itself ;)
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270591444534&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

btw
dont just attempt installing/placing this in the compartment and the GPS onto it, it wont work for you trust me, the comp. is too deep for the gps screen to bee seen + too far for your hand to reach the screen


but maybe u guys can come up with some idea

hint #2.. use dual vent mounts to the middle vent to mount a 5 ~ 7" screen over there it will look excellent and be very comfortable to operate to the GPS (but that will come at some cost too) air obstruction :S
but u can close the middle vents to get greater air flow from the most left air vent which i guees will solve the problem at least when ur driving with no passengers seated at the back (we are so desperate for a GPS built into our car!)


give it a shot

my install

gabip - very nice. That's exactly what I had in mind! I've decided to wait a little while though. I initially thought about a Garmin or TomTom nav unit, but I started thinking a smartphone would be better (like you have) so I could get real-time traffic - but the screens are so small. I started thinking that a small tablet PC like an iPad would be perfect - bigger screen than a phone and it could get maps via google maps and real-time traffic. Apple products are always way over priced so I'll never buy iPad, but with the new tablets that are coming out (especially with the Android touch tablets) there are definitely some very viable alternatives!