2008 X5 Navigation System

[redstar]

I am about to receive my 2008 X5 3.0 and was wondering if the navigation system says the street name when being routed on the itinerary. I know the newer model Garmins do it. The vehicle was built in mid December.

[brian5]

I don't think so. I think it just tells you when to turn right, turn left, when you've arrived, etc.

[kustjag]

Factory navigation systems cannot compete with the Garmins and other stand alone systems. The only advantage of the factory navigations systems is that they are seamlessly built in.

[alexmish]

It does announce highway names (not always)... sometimes it does announce street names, too (but sometimes)

[redstar]

I find it hard to believe that the NAV in the 08 X5 does not name the streets. You can get a $299.00 garmin that does that. I test drove the Lexus 350 and that NAV named the streets. Why did I just spend + 1000 for a NAV that does less than a cheap Garmin. Is this a software issue that can be upgraded in the future?

[Quicksilver]

You can always go out and purchase "a $299.00 garmin that does that" Or you can learn all about the one you have. Personally name calling isn't something i need so i don't miss it. In fact the less the Navi has to say the better i like it.

My e-53 Navi shows the name of the street being traveled and the next approaching street where i should turn on the screen and that great for me.

The thing that irks me about our 05 530i is it's instance on turning down the radio volumn when it makes an announcement about where to turn. Grrr

[kustjag]

After the initial first week excitment for navigation and voice directions on my first BMW 7 years ago, I have always turned off the voice prompts on navigation as I find them annoying and unnecessary.

I don't know if it is just me, but I catch any upcoming turns or direction out of the corner of my eye on my navigation screen as they happen. Since on split screen the direction arrows and street names pop up in green andwhite when needed.

Therefore I have felt there is no need for the voice prompts or HUD in my case

[Penguin]

> Why did I just spend + 1000 for a NAV that does less than a cheap Garmin.

Because it has the BMW name on it.

[brian5]

It's great with the head-up display

[rshanholtz]

I agree with brian5, the heads-up display significantly increases the usefulness of the NAV system. My 07' X5 3.0 does announce the street name when it states, turn left in 1000 feet onto...street.