Navigation System

[rchern]

I'm thinking about buying a new CTS. I'd like to know if the Navigation System is worth it. I can get the Premium package for about $10,000.00 or buy the same options separately and eliminate the Navigation System and save $1000.00. So, is the Navigation System worth $1000.00? Or, am I missing something? Is there something else that I'd be getting with the Premium Package for that $1000.00 extra?

[Northern SRX]

I have the NAV.

IMO, NAV is worth it for the following reasons:

• The pop-up feature is the killer app in the interior of this car - if you're "gadget positive", there's simply nothing better than this feature.
• It's integrated with OnStar - get your directions downloaded to your Nav and you're never lost.
• It's integrated with your iPod - scroll through your iPod via the centre console wheel and/or your steering wheel controls
• It comes with the integrated 40 GB hard disk - rip your favourite CDs to the hard disk - you'll always have them (with or without your iPod)

I don't even question the money I spent on this option as it was well worth it.

Again, IMO.

[jghiller]

I wasnt planning on getting NAV when I bought my CTS. Do I know how to get to town? But I now use it alot and you would be surprised how helpful it can be to locate places and get directions. And as the previous post indicated, if you like high tech gadgets, functions, and features, the CTS NAV is amazing. Well worth every penny. Just be prepared to get NAV map and sofware(NAV/audio/Gracenotes) updated depending on what year CTS you get. I understand 2009s cannot be ordered anymore.

[ddawson]

I agree with the other posts. If you don't get the NAV you will regret it for the rest of your ownership.

[cts_serenity]

I agree with all you guys. The NAV is well worth the money and specially for a mere $1000 when you are spending so much more to get a CTS. You might think you may not need it now but once you get it you just can't drive your CTS with it. This alone also gives your CTS a high note when you sell it - look at it like an investment, you spent $1000 now and later you get less depreciation. Personally, I just love how it pops up and the clean look of having a factory NAV - no matter how it costs me, I always get the NAV with all my cars. I am sure most of the CTSers will agree with me when I say - Just go for it!

[marktanner]

Depending on where you live, the XM Traffic integration with the NAV can be a godsend, saving time and hassles. I find myself using the NAV even when I know the route so as not to miss traffic issues enroute, and get detours as necessary. Weather alerts are useful in tornado or thunderstorm conditions as well.

[wildman9]

Don't forget it is also a 5.1 surround DVD player

[ultimate_ed]

I agree. I faced the same situation when looking for my CTS. Having used a Garmin in my family van, I was skeptical about factory in car NAV systems. The NAV unit in the CTS is far and above my portable Garmin.

And, truth be told, I don't use it for Navigation all that often. However, the touchscreen interface and full screen display, especially for my heavy Ipod usage, have proven well worth it.

I've had CTS loaners w/o the NAV and it is a totally different experience. I spend about 1.5 hours a day between the morning and afternoon commute, so the interior space was very important for me. I do think you'll regret not having the NAV in what it otherwise going to be a fully loaded car.

[wayneebrown]

Get the nav! You won't regret it! I think you'll much prefer the OEM look to a retrofit.

[mik2718]

Is anyone counting votes here? Get the nav. Handheld units have their own good points, but a built-in 8" screen is tough to beat.

[daormz]

When I set out to purchase a used ’08 CTS last year, the best advice I received from one long-time Cadillac salesman was; make sure I get one that is Certified (CPO) and one that has the Nav System. You should get every $ back spent on the Nav Sys during the resale. For one grand, that's a no brainer IMO.

[jelee01]

I have to pretty much echo earlier opinions - get the NAV. It is a sweet addition to the car and much more functional - especially with onstar downloads, etc. I debated, but am really happy with my decision to upgrade to the premium package inclusive of the NAV.

[yatesd]

I agree with everyone else. If the NAV is only $1,000 over other options you want anyway, it is one of the best out there. If you are deciding what expense to cut over other viable options (such as the performance package), then it really depends on your priorities.

For me a $199 Garmin does the trick and can be used in all my vehicles plus the rental car.

[rchern]

Thanks for your opinion everyone. But, now I am even more confused because the reason I started this thread was because of a thread called "Stupid Nav." which I saw on the STS forum. Most of the people on that thread hated the factory navigation system and referred to the Garmin navigation system claiming it was 20% of the price and much better. Aside from the fact that the CTS screen pops up and the STS screen is in the dash I would think that both factory systems have the same technology and features. I guess I'll have to do more research.

[mik2718]

Originally Posted by rchern

Aside from the fact that the CTS screen pops up and the STS screen is in the dash I would think that both factory systems have the same technology and features.

I think that the CTS nav is "advanced," relative to the STS system. It resides on the HDD, rather than a permanently installed DVD, so it should be faster. I trust that folks with more knowledge/experience than I have will enumerate other differences between the two systems.