Second Gen Nav v's First Generation - I would not order this again

[rkw]

Quote: Originally Posted by ariharry (original)

I have a BMW M3 E46 with Sat Nav and the software has been updated about 6 times since I purchased it. Many of the software updates have improved the usability and display. The most recent update added anti-aliasing to the map screen and 3D perspective

BMW M3 E46 uses the same Mk IV DVD navigation unit as the 1st gen MINI (literally the same interchangeable hardware box). The updates for anti-aliasing and 3D perspective were also applicable to MINI, and I updated my Nav firmware as versions V26 through V28 were released

The R56 however has a completely new Nav unit that was probably derived from or the same as the current BMW models, e.g. new 3-series. Hopefully other BMWs have similar problems, and updates will carry over to the R56. Has anybody compared the R56 with Nav on the new 3 and 5 series BMW?

[Dazmac13]

ye thats what i was told - the new nav is from the new 3 series

[~Marcus~]

Quote: Originally Posted by Purple Dave (original)

And put up with that basic looking dash ..... No way Jose.

I prefer to look at it as a £1500 dash upgrade that gives you Sat Nav free !!!

My thoughts exactly. At night I often see other drivers in jams peering in at my really cool Sat Nav speedo!

I have been caught out with "first exit" soundling like "third exit" - why does it have to have an American accent? (Not dissing the US accent but this is marketed as a British car so she should sound like Joanna Lumley!)

Sometimes if you reach a roundabout the instruction comes far too late. I just zoom in as far as possible and you can clearly see the next exit.

Not brilliant but I wouldn't have that gappy console or standard speedo.

[ariharry]

Quote: Originally Posted by rkw (original)

BMW M3 E46 uses the same Mk IV DVD navigation unit as the 1st gen MINI (literally the same interchangeable hardware box). The updates for anti-aliasing and 3D perspective were also applicable to MINI, and I updated my Nav firmware as versions V26 through V28 were released

The R56 however has a completely new Nav unit that was probably derived from or the same as the current BMW models, e.g. new 3-series. Hopefully other BMWs have similar problems, and updates will carry over to the R56. Has anybody compared the R56 with Nav on the new 3 and 5 series BMW?

To keep manufacturing costs down a fair number of the modules within the car are shared across the different platforms within the BMW group.

I certainly would not hold-off on purchasing the sat-nav because of the current software, as the software will evolve over time.

[familiarstranger]

Another thing to keep in mind is that the US will not be offering Nav until March. Perhaps they are fixing problems that are coming in and will ship the US cars with it and release it across the pond in March. This is only something we can hope. Does anyone know if the 3 series is having the same problems? If so I am sure people would be voicing their opinions on that as well.

[Rakey]

well we have had a response from MINI for what its worth

Quote:

>Thank you for your email dated February 15, 2007 regarding the second
generation satellite navigation in your MINI R56. We would like to
apologise for the delay in our response.

We understand that there has been a couple of issues with the
satellite navigation in the R56. We have contacted the manufacturer of the
satellite navigation disc and relayed your feedback. Although there
is currently no confirmation, we are hoping that there will be a software
upgrade that will improve its functionality in the hear future.

We are sorry that you are not happy with the new satellite navigation
system, however we can assure you that MINI UK is looking into this
matter.

We are sorry that you have had cause to contact us and trust that this
has not deterred you from enjoying your MINI R56.

Yours sincerely

MINI UK
Diva Renton-Roderix
Customer Service Executive

[Purple Dave]

Got a response very similar. Hopefully they will hurry up.

Thank you for your email dated February 21, 2007 regarding the second generation Satellite Navigation in your MINI R56.

I can advise that we have received feedback with regards to the functionality of the system. It is for this reason that BMW have contacted the manufacturer of the satellite navigation disc to relay this feedback. They have advised that they are currently looking into this and we are expecting them to provide a software upgrade that will improve its functionality. When this becomes available, your local dealer will be in contact with you.

I am sorry that you have had cause to contact us under these circumstances and assure you that MINI UK is giving this matter our full attention.

Yours sincerely

MINI UK
Diva Renton-Roderix
Customer Service Executive