According to Mazda's web site, a Navigation system costs $2000.

Does anyone know if this is a factory- or dealer-installed option?

I've never had/seen one of these things before.. but I imagine it includes a GPS, LCD monitor, etc.

To those who've had one, does it distract from overall driving experience, and is it worth the money?

Would I be better off building my own?

Zoidberg, welcome to the forum! If you use the "search" function you see plenty of threads that discuss navigation.

The nav system is only available as a factory option. The car must be ordered with it since it has to be installed in Japan (according to Mazda rep at Auto Show).

$2000 is a little steep for nav. I know my way around here but there are always those time when I wish I had one. I might just use my Palm as a nav system and save a few bucks.

Negative the dealership in NC was going to put one in for me. I however was willing to pay the 2000 plus labor

My car has the Nav., and yes it is only factory installed. the nav is built into the dash and to add the entire dash unit would have to be replaced. The nav. is updated via dvd's. It is worth it's price if you don't have multiple vehicles, in which case a portable nav would probably be more practicle, IMO.