Dash Express redesigned for Q1 2008 launch

More than a year after its initial tease, the Dash Express receives a much needed makeover in preparation for its overdue commercial outing. The WiFi, cellular, and GPS packing navigator with two-way traffic updates and travel-time forecasting now features a larger 4.3-inch display, louder speaker, beefier internal battery, and power connector on the dash mount instead of the navigator. They’ve also axed the button clutter up front by introducing a pair of touch-sensitive buttons along top: one makes a volume button appear on the touchscreen while the other brings up the menu. Although well behind their initial launch projection, the fact that they have the time to fine-tune the design is a pretty good sign that a revised Q1 2008 launch date is in the bag.

Mercedes brings Google, Yahoo maps to your vehicle

Some German drivers can already send data straight from Google Maps to their BMW’s GPS unit, but it looks like certain Mercedes owners can now get in on the act as well, and be able to do the same with Yahoo Local Maps to boot. That oft-desired feature is the centerpiece of Mercedes-Benz’s new Search & Send service, which’ll work with ‘07 S-Class, CL-Class, and ‘08 C-Class vehicles equipped with the Multimedia Package and Navigation System. Apparently, you’ll also be able to give friends and family access to the system as well, which will let them send directions straight to you while you’re on the road. While the service itself is available at no added charge, you’ll first need a subscription to Mercedes’ Tele Aid System, a complimentary first year one of which is available to those opting for the Security and Care package with their vehicle.

Pioneer’s well-spec’d AVIC-N4 in-dash navigation system

 

Less than a month after Pioneer loosed details on its AVIC-X3, along comes word that we can also expect an AVIC-N4 in the not-too-distant future. This single-DIN unit boasts a motorized, flip-out seven-inch touchscreen, optional iPod / Bluetooth compatibility, CD or DVD playback, XM / XM NavTraffic-readiness, and a Tele Atlas database for routing you around. Regrettably, the lack of an internal HDD means that you’ll be forced to insert the map DVDs in order to access guidance, but users can feel free to toss in discs with MP3, WMA, AAC, or DivX files when the drive is clear. Furthermore, the unit can even accept tunes streamed in wirelessly from a mobile handset when utilizing the CD-BTB200 adapter, as it understands both A2DP and AVRCP protocols. So, now that you’ve found a satisfactory replacement for that aging factory head-unit, you’ve only got to scrounge up $1,600 to make the swap.

Navigon 2100: 3.5-inches of 3D navigation

 

Navigon is really speaking our language, and the language of our pocketbook, with the new Navigon 2100 navigation device. Not only is it a real charmer with curvy looks, 3D maps and 3.5-inches of touchscreen, but the device is hitting North America for the neighborly price of $249, and it looks like Europe will be getting a crack at it as well. Navigon of course isn’t leaving in all the bells and whistles of the 5100 and 7100 — like Bluetooth or real time traffic — but there’s at least some text-to-speech for reading you street names, and speed warnings to let you know when you’re breaking 55. If you’d like you can even get in on real time traffic info for $99, and toss on some ZAGAT reviews for another $39. The 2100 will be out this fall.

Panasonic announces Strada CN-GP50N GPS for Europe

Panasonic expanded its Strada line of GPS navigation/entertainment units at IFA this week, rolling out its new CN-GP50N aimed squarely at the European market. Filling out the face of this unit is a 5-inch QVGA touchscreen, which should give you a decent view of the 37 pre-loaded maps of European countries, as well as the 1.3 million POIs and 3D maps of selected locations and landmarks. The unit also comes equipped with desirable features like text-to-speech, voice commands, speed camera information, and Bluetooth handsfree calling, as well as real-time traffic information with the addition of an optional receiver. No word on a release date just yet, it seems, but it’ll apparently set you back an even €400, or roughly $545.

Sony adds Bluetooth to fresh line of nav-u GPS

GPS without hands-free calling is hardly worth its weight in silicon these days, and Sony is getting in on the game in Europe with its new nav-u personal navigation devices. The 4.8-inch NV-U93T (pictured) and NV-U83 in particular are getting the new Bluetooth functionality. The U93T bests its peer with a broad selection of Europe maps, and live traffic info, the latter of which is optional with the U83. You can control either device with “Gesture Command,” which allows you to scribble symbols on the screen and be presented with directions home or to the nearest gas station. If you’re not quite ready to take the Bluetooth plunge, Sony also has the 4.3-inch NV-U73T and NV-U53, which both do Gesture Command, and hold the same traffic info and Europe map differentiations of big brother 4.8-inchers. All four models will be out in Europe this November, ranging from 249 to 379 Euro ($340 to $517 US).