I think nav. is great, but the BMW unit is outdated and not worth the $1800. Get a Pionner if you want in-dash, you'll get more features for around the same price. I just got the TOMTOM go($650), and I am very happy so far, it will pair with your bluetooth phone, you'll get up to date trafic infos, weather, and poi (gas stations, restaurants, etc...), and it has 2d and 3d maps.

retro nav or not
 

A lot of the new navs out there, Garmin etc., blow away the BMW system for ease of use, touch screen, additional features etc..
I've had both Garmin and BMW and would not buy a BMW system again until they do a lot of upgrades (look at the Lexus system).

The benefits for retrofit vs. portable are of course OEM fit/looks and ability to add some add ons like back-up camera, TV etc. and maintain the OEM look. I know I will never install those so I never thought about it.

Best of both worlds IMO is to install a pioneer AVIC or equivalent - you would then have an integrated 'OEM look' system with all the bells and whistles that the BMW system is lacking. Of course this is expensive when all is added up.
just my 2c

ditto that

I got an Garmin GPS I5 for christmas and I am very happy with it. Small but extremely efficient, fast and accurate. If I was going to buy one now I would go for the Garmin Nuvi 350. I believe this is one of the most sensitive GPS on the market at the moment. I have seen it getting a solid sat signal inside a house 15 feet from the window.

:iagree: I'll never buy another vehicle without it.

I agree with all the comments here. If you don't have factory NAV don't bother retrofitting (except if your name is King) and get a portable system or get aftermarket. I'm in the process of installing the latter with back-up cam. :thumbup:

Breyton, I thought you already had NAV! I know many have decided to go with aftermarket units ... but why would you ruin the beautiful interior with an aftermarket unit screwed into the dash?? DON'T DO IT!!

Nothing beats the clean look of the dash with factory nav. I will personally fly down to T.O. and do your retrofit for you!! Imagine your ride with factory nav, tv, dvd, rear cam, sirius radio, etc. You can't do that with a damn Garmin on a gooseneck!

LOL at gooseneck!! Arvi, you're too damn kind. I'll personally buy you the airline tickets, not to mention free room and board. Thanks bro!

Retro fit? I don't think I would just because of the cost. I would go for the portable units. But I have it and found it easy to use. But then again i'm one of those nothings going to get the best of me kinda guys. So while Navi is a bit unfriendly we get down to business easily.

Nav or Not
 

I'm with the King. I like the look and feel of the BMW OEM Nav look. I think the after market Nav's are messy ;puke; . Plus the OEM Nav will add more value to your vehicle.

I didn't know that Nav existed until I started looking at X5. I didn't buy my 04 X5 with a Nav.

Hey King, what would you charge to come to the GREAT :thumbup: state of TEXAS to install mine. These dealers act as though they never heard of Nav system. :dunno:

Long Live the KING ! :woot: