it's very expensive option that is needed by some and not by others, I
have it and probably would not get a car without it again

A GPS navigation system is a very convenient option, especially when
traveling on unfamiliar roads.  A navigation system is useful even on trips
that are less than 3,000 miles.  There are aftermarket options that are less
expensive to acquire and less expensive to update, but in my opinion, the
displays on many are too small to easily read.  I see many aftermarket
systems that are stuck to the windshield, and it seems like they would be
difficult to see in glare conditions, would obstruct the view out of the
windshield, and would invite theft.  The other advantage of a portable GPS
unit is that you can use it in more than one vehicle, even rental cars.

In auto magazine reviews, the Lexus navigation system is usually described
as one of the easiest to use, and I agree.  Visibility and clarity are good,
the in-dash installation looks much more integrated than one stuck to the
windshield, and satellite acquisition is much quicker than on my hand-held
portable unit.  On the negative side, you cannot input destinations while
the vehicle is moving unless you purchase an aftermarket kit that bypasses
the safety feature, the option is expensive, and update DVD's are expensive.

it's an expensive option and updates, (which depending on where you
live/travel may not be a necessary annual need), are $200+ for the
update DVDs but they're much nicer than aftermarket displays
haphazardly stuck to the dash or windshield and at least in this area
(metro DC area), are a high theft item (the portable ones that is).

I have the OEM nav system in my 02 LS430 and at first, I thought it
was an expensive luxury but I can't imagine not having it now.  When
you need directions *now*, there's absolutely, positively no
substitute.

I prefer my portable GARMIN NUVI 350, which I use instead of the built in
one in my 2004 Lexus LS430. Absolutely, positively the portable GARMIN is
the way to go, as you can move it from car to car and use it when
fly-n-driving. That being said, buying a high-end vehicle today WITHOUT
navigation is somewhat like buying a car without airconditioning...it will
save you money upfront and is fine if you can live without it....but if youi
don't keep the vehicle for about 7 years, you'll lose more on resale than
you will save upfront.

My suggestion, frankly, is to get both. The Garmin can be had for about $400
and the Lexus built-in unit will pay for itself at resale time.

The GPS nothing short of wonderful, when you get used to how to operate
them, BUT they ARE a driving distraction to the uninitiated, so be careful
when learning, and BE VERY CAREFUL about lending your car to those who are
not familiar with using it.

Hi Alan-

I purchased a 2003 ES-300 with the Nav system.  Initially, I did not want
this as an option and even looked into having a specially ordered vehicle
(requiring a 4 month delay).   I decided to go ahead with the Nav system and
am very happy that I did.  The benefits exceed the costs.  It takes the
stress out of driving to new destinations.  It indicates the "ETA",
estimated time of arrival, allowing me to more efficiently plan my trips.
I have even found "short-cuts" with the nav system that save time and gas.
I don't think that it is really necessary to update the DVD, unless the
streets in your area have significantly changed.  I still have the original
DVD.

Now that I have it, I would not want to drive without one.  It makes sense
to include this as an option in a vehicle in the class of a Lexus.  I don't
think that you will regret it.

Good luck!

Carl