Would an external GPS be the way to go, or is an internal Navigation system a better approach?
Thanks to all responders.

 

External GPS is easier-cheaper to install, and has better software than the Lexus OEM Nav. OEM Internal Navigation retrofit can be done, but can get expensive, because it would require replacing your whole center cluster/dashboard. And since it is tightly integrated with the vehicles climate control and audio system, you could run into problems making sure everything works together.

 

I vote for an external GPS for all the same reasons.
Chris

 

I have an external Magellan but really only use MapQuest on my iPhone. I can plug in the address in the house and just hit start once I get in the car. I rely on the voice more than a visual on the map anyway.

 

One of the prerequisite of me purchasing my Rx was that it have Navigation. Now owning the car for over a year and half, I barely ever use the Navigation; and if I had to do it all over again, I would just get an Rx without Navigation.
The biggest thing is that the Lexus Rx navigation is already dated technology, so other than making your center console look more aesthetically pleasing it isn't worth the hassle.

 

For significantly less than the cost of one single Lexus map update, you can buy a TomTom XXL 540 TM, which includes lifetime traffic and lifetime map updates, which generally are released 4x a year.

We bought a 2007 400h that happened to have Nav, but we use the TomTom. I'll admit that on a long trip we turn on the Lexus nav screen and zoom it out for an overall view, but we rely on the TomTom.

I also use the TomTom in my Cadillac XLR, which has got to have one of the worst nav systems I've ever used.

 

I have had external and internal. I like things very neat and tidy, and some
installs can be done that way, personally I like it in the dash, costs more, but if possible I try to keep things oem or at least appear that way. Now if they would only put a valentine one as standard equipment