Digital Trends

Navigon 2100 Max

April 28th, 2008 | by David Elrich

Features and Design

One of the biggest trends for 2008 is the proliferation of GPS models with 4.3-inch widescreens, a dramatic increase from entry-level, square-shaped 3.5-inch units. Thankfully, the Navigon 2100 Max sports the former – and trust us, you’ll definitely appreciate the larger visual real estate.

For the most part, GPS devices look pretty similar—a screen surrounded by a small bezel – since there are few buttons and controls. Everything other than power on/off is usually handled by tapping the screen: Another reason to opt for a larger display. The Navigon has a piano-black-colored frame with a small, unobtrusive logo and it blends nicely with a dark dashboard. Just as important is the rear of the unit, since you’ll see it as you approach your car, which has a nice, etched design along with a small speaker.

As for general dimensions, the Navigon 2100 Max measures 4.83 x 3.03 x .74 (WHD, in inches) and weighs 6.27 oz. On the right side is an SD card slot which holds NAVTEQ map information (this comes with the unit). Please note that the maps supplied on the card only contain the lower 48 states—if you’re heading for Anchorage, Alberta or the rainforests of Puerto Rico, track down the 2120 Max, a model aimed for drivers north of the U.S. border ($329 CAD).

One of the most critical interfaces of any GPS is the windshield mount. We tried an older Navigon 7100 and the suction cup kept failing with the entire unit falling on the floor because the arm was so heavy. Fortunately, the company KO’d that mount with the 2100, instead opting for a different style. It too proves annoying, but at least it didn’t hit the carpet too many times. Looking like something from a Lego set, you have to attach the GPS holder to the mount via a screw. Navigon doesn’t bother to include instructions for putting it together—you have to go online and check out the manual.

We know companies want to save money, but a small quick guide wouldn’t cost a fortune and would improve the “out of box” experience. By comparison, even older models such as Garmin’s nuvi 360 have a mount that’s much easier to use along with simple get-started instructions. Also, the Navigon mount—designed for quickly removing the unit to prevent theft—doesn’t have a reassuring snap or click when you take it off or put it back in place.

Beyond setting up the mount and plugging the power cord into a cigarette lighter jack, there’s not much more involved with getting set up and going. We have to give Navigon some credit here: With the 7100 you had to charge it for five hours off the car’s electrical system before it worked—truly one of the most absurd things we’ve had to deal with in the past few years. The 2100 Max has some power right out of the box and the screen immediately pops to life.

Other than larger display size, a good GPS device should have text-to-speech capability, so directions are announced as you cruise along, which the Navigon thankfully possesses. However, it does not sport Bluetooth capability, so you can’t use it with your cell phone or play MP3s, as do competing units. Then again, the device does have several other features that are recommendable including Reality View, an almost photo-like image of key highway interchanges. The screen shows you road signs virtually as they appear in real-life, making it a lot easier to deal with complicated clover leafs and the like. Units also feature DirectHelp for directions to emergency services in case you need them. On the downside, they also sport Automatic Speed Warnings. Who needs to be nagged about that—not that you’d ever break the law! Fortunately, these can be disabled.

Another point of difference between GPS devices is the number of POI (points of interest) such as banks, gas stations, restaurants and so forth contained on supplied maps. (The more the better, natch…) The 2100 Max has two million, less than certain rivals. Worse, not all are accurate.

Many industry observers believe real-time traffic is the “killer app” for GPS devices. With it, the unit receives notice of road congestion then provides an alternate route to speed you along. Navigon offers Lifetime Traffic as an option. It’s $99 USD for as long as you own it.

The device also has a Zagat option for $39 USD so you can also check ratings for restaurants, hotels and so on. There’s a FreshMaps feature for $79 USD as well, whereby the company supplies regular map updates quarterly for three years. These are competitive prices with Garmin, TomTom et al, and if you live on the road, might be worthwhile investments.

After getting the 2100 Max into position (thanks to a little saliva on the suction cup), it was time to start driving with the help of our chatty new “friend.”

Image Courtesy of Navigon