GPS Systems: Built-in vs. Smartphone vs. Personal Navigation Devices

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Maps aren’t made of paper anymore. Interactive, ever-moving, touchscreen GPS systems are the preferred method of navigation these days, and there are several different types of GPS systems available. The three main options are In-Dash Navigation Systems, available on many pre-owned vehicles at Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Smartphones with Navigation Apps, and Personal Navigation Devices. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each navigation system in turn.

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In-Dash Navigation Systems

Conveniently placed and ever-ready to work, more and more vehicles offer GPS navigation systems built right into the dashboard.

Pros:

  • Large, colorful touchscreens
  • Dedicated to navigation, so other programs don’t drain speed or battery
  • Speakers designed to be heard over road noise
  • No expensive data plans
  • Come with windshield mounts

Cons:

  • Raises price of vehicle
  • Fees to update map system
  • Can only be used in its vehicle

Smartphone Navigation Apps

Many drivers have a smartphone on hand, and mobile navigation apps are relatively reliable.

Pros:Mobile phones with GPS navigator on screen.

  • Sharp imaging
  • Intuitive controls
  • Free or inexpensive navigation apps
  • Up-to-date maps and traffic alerts
  • Can be used to navigate in any car and on foot or bike

Cons:

  • Small screen is difficult to see, especially when mounted to dash or windshield
  • Phone volume competes with road noise
  • Dangerous to use in hand while driving
  • Expense of data plans and phones themselves
  • Routing disturbed by incoming calls and texts
  • Limited battery life

 

Personal Navigation Devices

Personal navigation Devices (PNDs), like Tom-Tom and Garmin-brand devices, aren’t as popular as they once were, but they could still prove useful to keep on hand.

Pros:

PNG Garmin GPS
  • Large, colorful touchscreens
  • Dedicated to navigation, so other programs don’t drain speed or battery
  • Speakers designed to be heard over road noise
  • No expensive data plans
  • Come with windshield mounts

Cons:

  • Map updates require computer connection
  • Not useful for navigating on foot or bike
  • Limited battery life

 

 

Each of these systems have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget and how often you need directions. Whether you choose one of these systems or just an old-fashioned paper map, find the right navigator for you at Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama.

Toyota Camry vs Toyota Corolla

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Buying a pre-owned Toyota is always a smart choice. Toyota vehicles retain their quality, reliability, and comfort for years after the competition breaks down. Two of the most popular Toyotas to buy pre-owned are Corolla and Camry. If you are trying to decide between these two trusted sedans, Limbaugh Toyota offers this guide to their differences.toyoyta camry vs toyota corolla

Size

The big picture difference between the Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla is size. The Camry is a larger, full-size vehicle, while the Corolla is a smaller, compact car. While the two are roughly the same height, the Camry measures about 2 inches wider and about 10 inches longer. Corresponding to this disparity in exterior size is a difference in interior space. The Camry usually offers more legroom than the Corolla, so those who often drive with multiple adult passengers may be more comfortable in the Camry. That isn’t to say the Corolla is tiny inside; the Toyota Corolla regularly offers legroom comparable to larger crossover vehicles like the Honda CR-V.

Performance and MPGtoyota camry engine

Along with the larger size, the Camry often offers larger engines. Most model years see both the Camry and Corolla with a standard 4-cylinder engine. The Camry usually offers a V6 engine as a higher trim option; greater horsepower and torque accompany such an upgrade. On the other hand, greater size and power comes with lower gas mileage. The zippy Corolla usually gets better gas mileage than the same model year Camry. Both are efficient, however, with the 2015 Camry getting up to 25/35 mpg*, and the 2015 Corolla getting up to 30/42 mpg*. Additionally, the Toyota Corolla often offers a manual transmission option, while the Camry sticks with the automatic.

Featurestoyota corolla cockpit

The Toyota Camry is designed to be more luxurious than the economical Toyota Corolla. Often the Camry will have more standard and optional safety and convenience features than the Corolla. The higher Camry trim levels, like the XSE and XLE, taut leather upholstery, driver-assistive technologies, and heated seats. It may be easier to find a Camry with features like a moonroof, blind spot monitor, rearview camera, or navigation system. While the Camry strives for sophistication and premium materials, the Corolla offers functionality and simplicity in its tech systems and interior decor, though many may offer the same advanced features as Camry. As a result of the additional features, greater size, and upscaled interior, the Toyota Camry is typically more expensive than the Toyota Corolla.

Compare the Toyota Camry to the Toyota Corolla in person. Check out the wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles at Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama.