GPS Navigation for Boxsters

[richv]

Wondering if anyone has any recommendations for in-dash navigation systems for a 2004 Boxster?

[Perfectlap]

How much you want to spend?

[TriGem2k]

Originally Posted by richv

Wondering if anyone has any recommendations for in-dash navigation systems for a 2004 Boxster?

I have a Pioneer Avic N2 with a 6disc Pioneer CD Changer for sale. Asking $500 for both. Comes with all the wires and Navi DVD's. In the original boxx

[rick3000]

I would reconsider an in-dash unit. The're a completely custom installation, and are more dangerous than dash mounted GPS, because you look away from the road to look at it. Just something to think about.

EDIT:
If your doing a complete radio/gps/ipod system, then it makes sense. But of your were just going to mount a standalone GPS, then I would go dash-mounted.

[TimAustinW]

I was considering getting this double din Pioneer (Model: AVIC-D3) unit to replace my Becker and cup holders. Touchscreen GPS, DVD player, CD, MP3, IPOD integration. It's pretty sweet. 6.1" screen, optional rear view camera. It's selling for $999 at Bestbuy but I've seen it for as low as $579.


http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8242458&type=product&id=1169512508513

[vheidenr]

Tim,

Where have you seen it for $579? Auction sites?

Thanks

[9eighty6]

I run the Pioneer AVIC-N3, which is a DVD based navigation system. It features a retracting screen, which I personally like for security purposes when I park in public places. When the car is off, it simply looks like a regular aftermarket CD player. Functions with a touch screen, directions are exemplary, and there are 11,000,000+ P.O.I. (points of interest i.e. restaurants, schools, gas stations, etc). It seems much more user-friendly than the Porsche stock system.

Also, it allows me to use the same screen to switch between my iPod, XM Radio, Regular Radio, CD, MP3 CD or watch DVDs on long trips with one touch of the "source" button. All the while maintaining a clean look without extra wires or an ugly satellite radio unit.

Best of luck with your decision ...

[Chills]

I wonder if the regulars on this board are tired of seeing these pics... lol

I own a AVIC-D3, did the install myself with the BT adapter, iPod cable, and reverse camera. It takes a bit of wiring but it was a very straight-forward install. In fact, it was the very first time I'd ever done a stereo install.

I made a custom faceplate, not the one in the pics. The one in the pics was my first attempt and didn't look so good. I made another one out of pulled black vinyl which looks factory. I really need to get pics of that in here.

I love my Avic.

[TimAustinW]

Originally Posted by vheidenr

Tim,

Where have you seen it for $579? Auction sites?

Thanks

Cartronix Plus has it for $585.99. Could be an older model?

http://www.cartronixplus.com/templates/detailnf_price.cfm?zq=76773789&uas=N&globaldesc=na&rnumb=976&wherefrom=SEARCH&whichord=301452&department=ALL&class=N&special=R&tablegraphic=%2Fimages%2F&sold=Y&nextrow=%20Pioneer%20AVIC%2DD3%20in%2DDash%20navig ationNSavicd3&prevrow=%20Pioneer%20AVIC%2DD3%20in%2DDash%20navig ationNSavicd3&nextprev=0&subclass=ALL&subname=na&pagename=Online%20Store%20%3E%20%20%20%3E%20ALL%20 %3E%20&CFID=283206&CFTOKEN=64948063

[Perfectlap]

I want the indash Navi too but after using one of those portables from Garmin I really wonder if having the GPS in the dash has any benefit.
The windshield mount made driving much easier than having to look down and away from the road, particularly when you are driving in areas you're not familiar with.

[TimAustinW]

Originally Posted by Perfectlap

I want the indash Navi too but after using one of those portables from Garmin I really wonder if having the GPS in the dash has any benefit.
The windshield mount made driving much easier than having to look down and away from the road, particularly when you are driving in areas you're not familiar with.

I think the advantage of an in-dash unit like the Pioneer AVIC-D3 is that not only would you have a GPS unit but a system that would provide integrated iPOD touch screen controls, DVD Player, Rear view camera system, VHF tuner, CD/MP3 playback, etc. It's a lot packed into one unit. Some features like the camera system and ipod link are add ons but the option to do it is pretty sweet.

[Chills]

Perfectlap has a good point. It is tricky looking at the screen when driving in an unfamiliar area. The good thing is that you can always just pull over and check things out if you need to. I think the bundle of add-ons and features out-weighs the drawback of not being on the dash.

My wife has a portable GPS on her dash and it definately is easier to look at while driving, and its nice to have when in a rental car in an unfamiliar area.

[Sain0rs]

Out of curiosity, how is the screen on these Pioneer models in sunlight - ie with the top down on a bright summer day? Is there an in-dash unit designed for convertibles?

[Chills]

The only time I have trouble seeing the screen is in bright sunlight, top down, with my polarized Oakleys on. I tilt my head and I can see the screen fine in the sun.

[9eighty6]

I don't have any trouble seeing mine at all ... regardless of wearing sunglasses or not. Sometimes it is a little bright out, but even in a convertible I am extremely happy with it.

I also don't think it is any different to look at the dash 6in lower than if I had one (ex. garmin) attatched to the windshield. Both units are just as helpful, I have been saved by a garmin in other vehicles many-a-times.

Good luck!

[LoveBunny]

Originally Posted by Perfectlap

I want the indash Navi too but after using one of those portables from Garmin I really wonder if having the GPS in the dash has any benefit.
The windshield mount made driving much easier than having to look down and away from the road, particularly when you are driving in areas you're not familiar with.

If you really want to go the cheap route, I have a GPS in my Verizon phone. Always gets me where I need to be. However, I'd much rather have one in-dash.