I called NAVTEQ today (888-628-6277) and the rep told me that the new software version for the RX8 Nav. will be available for sale next month, September 2004. She said it wasn't available to order yet and she wasn't sure of the cost.

She said it would be the updated version of 2004.1.

Please correct me if she misinformed me.

Thanks.

 

Thanks for the post. I would love to know the cost. Is there a group buy opportunity here?

 

What new things can we expect to see with the new update besides updated streets/locations?

 

Based off the cost for other vehicles in which updates are available they all seem to cost $199, If I was a bettin man I would imagine we would pay the same. I know I will I use my Nav system all the time.

 

But besides updated locations, is there any reason we should buy the new dvd? on my dad's benz, we're still using the dvd from 2 years ago and it's still fine

 

Did she mention, by any chance, a new version for europe too?
Any other new updates maybe?

 

this is too stupid of a question to make a thread about, but does the nav work in canada?

 

that actually isnt a stupid question. I think it will work in Canada. I havent tried it, but I remember reading somewhere about the different regions that it has i am 90% sure Cananda was available. but I could be wrong. but either way it isnt a stupid question.

 

Will they update the 04's with this dvd, or not until the 05's come out?

 

Is this the operating software or the street map disc? You made it sound like the software.

 

I call navteq also and they told me the end of Sept, available only thru the dealer -
I forgot to ask if it was just mapping data or is there a software update also..

 

There's NO WAY I'll be paying $200 for a DVD... once the disk comes out, I'll have to pay a visit to my dealership and ask them why they didnt give it to me.

The CD I have right now doesnt even have an interstate highway on it!

which is pretty rediculous

 

Last I heard, the firmware update was given to new 2004 owners, but the older 2004 owners got a prior version with less functionality. For example, the new firmware speaks and says, "Keep Right to Exit I-294." The older system says, "Keep Right to Exit Highway." The new firmware has an easier input screen and shows a "split screen" when moving through an intersection where a turn should be made which shows the area map and the blown-up view of the intersection. There is a thread on the update, and the last I checked the dealerships were not allowing the older cars to be updated, even though the update would be simple to do. I'm going to ask my dealer about it at my next oil change, but I'm not hopeful.

The "$199" update is a map update -- in other words, just the mapping data is updated, not the program itself. On Tuesday night the NAV tried to send me over a bridge that hasn't been there in a number of years. I would hope that those sorts of (admittadly rare) problems would be corrected in the new map release.

GUYS: If you have an "older" 2004, or if you are unsure of what you've got, please make known to whoever tries to sell you the $199 update that you don't want to buy the map software unless you get the firmware update included with the deal. When buying a car with a NAV system, ask the dealer what the policy will be for firmware updates. It's my view that Mazda and Navtech should bring all 2004 owners up to the same firmware version, and do so with a smile, but if they won't do that, then lets use the release of the new maps as an opportunity to complain in a polite and constructive way.

 

^^ what he said.

I plan on going into my dealership and buying the software only if they upgrade my firmware as well. There are several dealerships in my area, so I'll call around and see who wants my business.

BTW, I have the older version + it's frustrating.

 

There are now several threads on the new NAV features and discussion/speculation on what's going on. Take at look at this particular thread, however, because it has actual pictures of what the new system looks like.

Updated NAV system

 

I have a copy of the newest version of (050517_1200) Covering the following areas;

England
France
Germany
Italy
Sweden
United Kingdom
and More

I live in the US, So I am unable to use this navigation disk. If you are interested, Please Email Me Scott

I can take pictures of the areas on the navigation system and the version if your interested.
I will sell to you for very cheap since I don't have any use.

Regards
Scott

 

Wow - revived after almost 6 years.